The story of how the Panama Canal came into being and the controversies that surround it, is one filled with drama and intrigue. From the very beginning in 1501 when the swashbuckling Spanish explorer, Rodrigo de Bastidas, landed in the isthmus region in search of treasure, the harsh environment where the canal is now situated has wreaked havoc, as well as brought prosperity to its inhabitants.
De Bastidas was the first of many adventurers who traveled to Panama -at that time part of the powerful Spanish Empire- in the hope of finding priceless treasure. He searched in vain and returned with little more than he set out with. Eventually overcome by infested swamps, disease and fruitless wanderings, he sailed back to Spain leaving behind a crew member,Vasco Nunez de Balboa. Blessed with a more determined character, de Balboa chose to stay and continue his captain's search for fame and fortune.
