Ferdinand de Lesseps
French diplomat and Suez Canal builder

Born
November 19th, 1805
219 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1894
130 years ago — 89 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
France
Links & References
A French diplomat and engineer, contributed significantly to the construction of the Suez Canal, which connected the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. The canal was completed in 1869 and marked a major advancement in global trade and maritime travel. De Lesseps was also involved in various diplomatic negotiations throughout his career, enhancing relations between France and other nations. His work on the canal demonstrated innovative engineering techniques and played a crucial role in transforming the economic landscape of the region.
Oversaw the construction of the Suez Canal
Laid out plans for the Panama Canal (later abandoned)
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