History of Canal in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 30, 2025

Canals are artificial waterways or engineered channels designed for drainage management or for water transport. These waterways maintain a free, calm surface flow under atmospheric pressure, functioning as artificial rivers. Canals play a role in drainage and transportation.

1903: United States Support for Panamanian Independence

In 1903, the United States, with support from Panamanians, took Panama province away from Colombia and established a puppet republic to facilitate the construction of the Panama Canal, with the expectation of economic benefits for Panama.

1914: Opening of the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal officially opened in 1914, marking a significant milestone in global maritime transportation.

1979: U.S. Withdrawal from the Canal Zone

In 1979, the United States withdrew from the Canal Zone in Panama, recognizing that conditions were stable enough after the construction and operation of the Panama Canal.

1980: Carter's Defeat

In 1980, the withdrawal from Panama contributed to President Jimmy Carter's defeat in the presidential election.

2000: Early Agricultural Period in Southern Arizona

In 2000 BCE, a prehistoric group occupied southern Arizona and grew corn, lived year-round in sedentary villages, and developed sophisticated irrigation canals during the Early Agricultural period.

June 2016: Panama Canal Expansion Commercial Operation

On June 26, 2016, the expanded Panama Canal began commercial operation, featuring new locks to accommodate larger Post-Panamax and New Panamax ships.

June 2016: Opening of Larger Locks in Panama Canal

On June 26, 2016, the opening of larger locks in the Panama Canal allowed for the passage of larger New Panamax ships, expanding the canal's capacity.