The idea of cutting a passage through Suez dates back to 1850 BC, but earlier attempts failed to overcome the challenges brought about by the desert terrain. It was only in 1854, during a period of European expansion and technological ambition, that a viable plan emerged.

The project was driven by Ferdinand de Lesseps, a French diplomat who secured Egyptian approval and international investment for a sea-level canal. Construction began in 1859 and was completed in 1869. One and a half million Egyptian labourers were conscripted into harsh conditions, and 120,000 died from disease, exhaustion and poor sanitation. The project suffered from financial strain, political disputes and technical setbacks, yet it continued because Britain and France viewed the canal as vital for maintaining influence over trade routes and access to India.

When the canal opened in 1869, it immediately reshaped global commerce. Journey times between Europe and Asia were cut dramatically, now taking 14 to 20 days, instead of 30 to more than 40, and the canal became a strategic choke point. Britain quickly moved to secure control, buying Egypt’s shares in 1875 and later occupying the country after a nationalist uprising. For decades, the canal served as the main artery of the British Empire, carrying troops, goods and communication between London and its territories.

The Suez Canal remained a symbol of power well into the 20th century. It would later become the centre of the Suez Crisis in 1956 when Egyptian President Nasser nationalised it, triggering a military intervention by Britain, France and Israel. The canal continues to hold global importance, with its control and operation reflecting wider political and economic shifts in the Middle East.