Question

What important waterway was opened with the Erie Canal

Answer 1

It was the waterway that connected  Hudson River on the east and Lake Erie at the western end.

Initially, the waterway was intended to granted acess for traders in new york to distribute and obtain goods that come through the atlantic ocean. But because of the budget suddenly become ridiculously overpiced, the building of this cana often referred to as 'Clinton's folley' (De witt Clinton was the name of the man who led the project)

Answer 2

The completion in 1825 of the Erie Canal (below), connecting Lake Erie with the Hudson River, was an event of major importance in Michigan history because it greatly facilitated the transportation of passengers and freight between the eastern seaboard and Michigan ports.