In its 150 years of operations, the Suez Canal has been through wars and high-stakes power struggles as it imposed itself as a vital international waterway.
On the anniversary of its lavish opening ceremony on November 17, 1869, here is a look back at key dates in its history.
As far back as the 19th century BC, a canal existed between the Red Sea and a section of the Nile River which links to the Mediterranean.
Dug out during the reign of Pharaoh Sesostris III, it could only be navigated during the wet season and required regular dredging. It was eventually abandoned in the eighth century AD.
