1. The idea for a canal across Panama dates back to the 16th century.
2. The men behind the Suez Canal and Eiffel Tower were convicted in connection with failed effort to build a canal.
3. America originally wanted to build a canal in Nicaragua, not Panama.
4. More than 25,000 workers died during the canal's construction.
5. Between 13,000 and 14,000 ships use the canal every year.
6. The United States transferred control of the canal to Panama in 1999.
7. The canal is being expanded to handle today's mega ships.
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