The opening of the Panama Canal had a significant impact on global trade by creating a shortcut for maritime shipping between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Completed in 1914, the canal reduced travel time for ships, allowing for quicker transit between vital trade routes. This efficiency led to increased shipping capacity and facilitated global commerce, as trade between the Americas, Europe, and Asia became more interconnected. The canal also played a strategic role in military movements and geopolitical dynamics. The economic effects were profound, as it contributed to the rise of Panama as a key player in international trade.