Countries are issuing, or at least preparing, a long list of promises to help finance research into new seeds, build irrigation canals and spread fertiliser use among small farmers (seeds, irrigation and fertilisers were the main components of the first green revolution in the 1960s).

ECONOMIST: The world food summit

They brought in European entrepreneurs and European capital to build railroads, canals and other improvements.

FORBES: When Sovereign Default Is The Most Attractive Option

With its network of canals and artificial islands, it testifies to the efforts of the Aztec people to build a habitat in the midst of an unfavourable environment.

UNESCO: Culture