The idea of digging a canal across the Panama Strait was given by

The correct answer is: [D] Humboldt. The idea of constructing a canal across the Panama Strait was proposed by Alexander von Humboldt. The eminent German scientist and explorer suggested this concept in the early 19th century. Humboldt recognized the strategic significance of such a canal for facilitating maritime trade and navigation between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. His proposal laid the groundwork for subsequent discussions and efforts to realize the construction of the Panama Canal. While Humboldt’s vision was not immediately realized during his lifetime, his advocacy for the canal’s construction helped to raise awareness of its potential benefits. Ultimately, his ideas influenced later developments and initiatives that led to the eventual construction of the Panama Canal, which revolutionized global maritime transportation and trade upon its completion in 1914, providing a vital shortcut for ships traveling between the eastern and western hemispheres.