# data[].attributes.body
The French, led by Ferdinand de Lesseps (who built the Suez Canal), made the first attempt to build the Panama Canal. They faced numerous challenges including tropical diseases like yellow fever and malaria, which claimed thousands of lives. The project ultimately failed and went bankrupt in 1889, having completed only about 1/3 of the canal.

# data[].attributes.body
Panama declared independence from Colombia with U.S. support. The U.S. immediately recognized the new nation. The Roosevelt administration then negotiated the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty, giving the U.S. control of a 10-mile-wide canal zone.

# data[].attributes.body
The United States purchased the French equipment and excavations for $40 million and began their ambitious project. Chief Engineer John Stevens revolutionized the construction by focusing first on infrastructure, worker housing, and mosquito control.

# data[].attributes.body
Dr. William Gorgas successfully eliminated yellow fever and significantly reduced malaria in the Canal Zone through extensive sanitation measures. This victory was crucial for the canal's construction, as disease had been a major obstacle.

# data[].attributes.body
Work began on the massive Gatun Dam, which would create Gatun Lake - an essential part of the canal system. This artificial lake would reduce the amount of excavation needed and provide water for the lock system.

# data[].attributes.body
The SS Ancon made the first official transit through the completed Panama Canal. This marked the realization of a 400-year-old dream to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, revolutionizing international maritime trade.

# data[].attributes.body
President Jimmy Carter and Panama's leader Omar Torrijos signed treaties agreeing to transfer control of the Canal to Panama by 1999. This marked a new era in U.S.-Panama relations and addressed long-standing sovereignty issues.

# data[].attributes.body
At noon on this historic day, full control of the Panama Canal was transferred from the United States to Panama, fulfilling the Carter-Torrijos Treaties. The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) took over operations, marking a new chapter in the canal's history.