What was the construction of the Panama canal mainly motivated by?

Ok so the persons answer before me is correct I just hit a lick pi x

The Panama Canal has connected the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean via one of history's most incredible examples of large-scale engineering. People come from all over the world to witness the canal for themselves. Because Panama is a major hub for those traveling to South America, it's easy to make the most of your layover by booking a one-day tour to the Panama Canal.