Question

Which is the BEST example of how the physical geography of the region slowed the construction of the Panama Canal?

A) Protests from the local citizens of Panama interfered with American work schedules.
B) Many workers were killed or sickened by malaria and yellow fever carried by mosquitoes.
C) Arguments between government leaders of the United States and Panama slowed its construction.
D) American contractors were forced to bring in new equipment to replace older, outdated French equipment.

Answer 1

It B. Many workers were killed or sickened by malaria and yellow fever carried by mosquitoes

Answer 2

The correct option is:

B) Many workers were killed or sickened by malaria and yellow fever carried by mosquitoes.

When the United States gained control of the Panama Canal project (1904) the Isthmus of Panama was known for its tropical diseases. More than 22,000 deaths had occurred during the French effort to build a canal, especially due to yellow fever and malaria. It was later established that the poor living conditions of the workers included pools of standing water where mosquitoes were breeding and spreading disease.