Spanish conquest of Latin America … Tierra Firme (the area of Panama and present northwestern Colombia) in the years 1509–13. The results were appreciable, but the Panamanian occupation was thrown somewhat in the shadow for a time by the spectacular conquest of central Mexico in 1519–21.

Panama was part of the Spanish Empire for over 300 years (1513–1821) and its fate changed with its geopolitical importance to the Spanish crown.

Although Guyana was claimed by the Spanish, who sent periodic patrols through the region, the Dutch gained control over the region early in the 17th century. This Dutch commercial concern administered the colony, known as Essequibo, for more than 170 years.

In 1513, Panama officially became part of the Spanish Empire. In 1514, Pedro Arias Dávila became the first governor of the territory of Panama. During this period, Panama became an important territory for Spain as it is situated between the Spanish territories of New Spain and the territories of South America.

Colombia

Christianity is the main religion in Panama. An official survey carried out by the government estimated in 2020 that 80.6% of the population, or 3,549,150 people, identifies itself as Roman Catholic, and 10.4 percent as evangelical Protestant, or 1,009,740.

Roman Catholic

Baseball is Panama’s most popular sport, and basketball and boxing follow in popularity. Baseball is Panama’s national sport, and four Panamanians are in the International Boxing Hall of Fame. During the first year of the Major League Baseball World Series, Panama became an independent country.

Famous people from Panama

• Mariano Rivera. Pitcher.
• Alexis Texas. Pornographic actor.
• Miguel Bosé Musical Artist.
• Rubén Blades. Latin pop Artist.
• Carlos Fuentes. Novelist.
• Roberto Durán. Professional Boxer.
• Billy Cobham. Jazz fusion Artist.
• Manuel Noriega. Politician.

Baseball is the national sport of Panama, with its history going as far as the mid-19th century. Their love for baseball goes so far that they produce professional baseball players that compete in the MLB. There are also local professional baseball leagues in Panama that you can enjoy.

The U.S. influence in Panama can be seen in the country’s sports. Basketball is extremely popular, and there are regional teams as well as a squad that competes internationally.

Not even the Panama province has 2 baseball teams and it is hands down the most populous province in the country. (FYI- The province of Panama’s team is called Panama Metro.) In the Major League, the Panama Metro team wins many championships, Herrera is often a contender, and Chirqui continues to hold its own.

Panama is known as a transit country because of the Panama Canal. While the country is known for its famous canal, its natural attractions include birding, whitewater rafting, and snorkeling tours. Panama forms a natural land bridge, connecting South and Central America.

Although Panama is a wealthy nation, prosperity is not felt by all. Rural and indigenous people often lack access to education, health care and political efficacy. From 2015-2017, poverty in Panama has declined from 15.4 percent to 14.1 percent and extreme poverty has decreased from 6.7 percent to 6.6 percent.

Panama typically ranks amongst the top favourite destinations for expats – and one of the best places to retire. With a tropical climate, an advantageous tax system, a vibrant capital and an eccentric culinary scene, it is seen by many as a land of opportunities.

Is Panama Considered a Third-World Country? Due to other important business sectors include banking, commerce, and tourism, Panama is considered a World Bank high-income country. Panama currently ranks 57th in the Human Development Index (HDI) as a country with very high human development.

Panama has an Affordable Cost of Living In Panama you can live very well on a lot less than many other countries. As a couple you could live comfortably in Panama on $1,995 a month . But you can spend as much or as little as you want to find your perfect comfortable lifestyle.