Ferdinand de Lesseps was a French diplomat and engineer best known for overseeing the construction of the Suez Canal, which opened in 1869. His successful management of this project significantly shortened maritime travel between Europe and Asia, enhancing global trade and navigation. Later, de Lesseps attempted to build the Panama Canal, but the project faced numerous challenges, including engineering difficulties and disease. Ultimately, his efforts in Panama were unsuccessful, leading to financial ruin and a tarnished reputation. Despite this, his achievements with the Suez Canal remain a significant part of engineering history.