A 30-year dream. A 50-mile shortcut. A timeless achievement.

A 50-mile shortcut to the Pacific lying just north of the equator is one of the most extraordinary human achievements ever. The building of the Panama Canal was a massive feat of engineering and ingenuity that cost millions of dollars and thousands of lives. NOVA offers a unique opportunity to explore the mind-boggling undertaking through historic film footage, rare archival photographs and insightful narration from author David McCullough.

Get an unprecedented look at the Canal's dangerous 30-year construction and wondrous present-day operation. Meet the persevering pioneers whose vision and determination overcame tremendous physical—and fiscal—obstacles. Understand why France abandoned the project after ten years and 20,000 deaths. Work alongside the builders who turned a fantastic dream into a fascinating reality. See immense steamshovels carve the earth. View the amazing "water elevators" that lift huge vessels 85 feet. Watch high-speed photography capture a lock passage. And much more!

On one DVD5 disc. Region coding: All regions. Audio: Dolby stereo. Screen format: 4 x 3 full frame.