<Li> 17 November 1869--The canal is opened, owned and operated by Suez Canal Company . </Li> <Li> 18 December 1873--The International Commission of Constantinople establishes the Suez Canal Net Ton and the Suez Canal Special Tonnage Certificate (as known today) </Li> <Li> 25 November 1875--Britain becomes a minority share holder in the company, acquiring 44%, with the remainder being controlled by French business syndicates . </Li> <Li> 20 May 1882--Britain invades Egypt, with French assistance, and begins its occupation of Egypt . </Li>

When was the suez canal opened how has it benefited india