More than 25,000 workers died during the Panama Canal’s construction.
The canal builders had to contend with a variety of obstacles, including challenging terrain, hot, humid weather, heavy rainfall and rampant tropical diseases, according to the History.com
The earlier French attempts had led to the deaths of more than 20,000 workers and America’s efforts fared little better; between 1904 and 1913 some 5,600 workers died due to disease or accidents, History.com states.
The canal is being expanded to handle today’s megaships. The $5.25 billion expansionbegan in 2007 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2015.
For more facts about the Panama Canal click here: History.com