Answer:
There are a total of three main reasons for European Exploration. Them being for the sake of their economy, religion and glory. They wanted to improve their economy for instance by acquiring more spices, gold, and better and faster trading routes. Also, they really believed in the need to spread their religion, Christianity.
Historically the term "hermit kingdom" has been used most to describe Korea, since this term is used to describe any country that is physically or mentally "removed" from the rest of the world.
Answer:
They purchased the Panama canal in 1904 for $375,000,000, if that's the canal you're talking about.