Ferdinand de Lesseps

French diplomat and Suez Canal builder

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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