In this episode of History for Cocktail Parties, James Ottley and Thornton Kennedy talk about the geopolitical race for canal dominance, focusing on the ambitious endeavors surrounding the Panama Canal. They unravel the stories of dreamers and diplomats, from the visionary yet unqualified Ferdinand de Lesseps to the strategic maneuvers of global powers. Discover how the Suez Canal's success fueled France's determination to reclaim its honor through the Panama Canal, despite overwhelming challenges.