Canals have been used for centuries to facilitate trade and transportation. The earliest known canals date back to ancient civilizations, such as the Sumerians in Mesopotamia around 4000 BCE. These waterways allowed for the movement of goods and people, significantly impacting economic development. During the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, canal construction surged in Europe and North America. Canals like the Erie Canal in the United States connected major waterways, enhancing trade routes and reducing transportation costs. Today, many historic canals are preserved for recreational use and tourism, highlighting their importance in shaping modern infrastructure.