Description: Since inception of independence in 1903, and efforts resumed on building the Canal a year later, Panama's brief history has largely been written by the United States. No place reveals this more than the
Panama Canal Museum, where collections unfolded more like a who's who of U.S. presidents.
Beginning with Theodore Roosevelt and the Canal labeled "Teddy's Pet," details of succeeding, where the French had previously failed, are largely lost with information given only in Spanish. Jimmy Carter receives greatest fanfare after making good on the long-running promise to sign gradual full-control back to Panama. A person could spend all day reading encased global newspapers regarding this event, alone.
Documented sour-spot with Panamanians are the Reagan-Bush administrations, aided by Oliver North, for empowering military dictator Manuel Noreiga. Bush Sr.'s small-scale war, to remove him in 1989, was justified after Noreiga's ironic classification as the first "terrorist threat" against America. Yet at the heart of a century's worth of bureaucracy is undoubtedly the greatest Man-Made Wonder of the Western World.
Perhaps the Canal receives greater attention at the
Miraflores Visitor Center, which I didn't visit. It's certainly overshadowed here, but was far from disappointing.
For English speakers, a virtual tour of the Canal has been filmed from upper-deck of a cruiseship, and provided anything I cared to know. Whether as a source of pride or jabbing embarrassment, repeat emphasis champions Canal as the only major U.S. government endeavor completed ahead of schedule, and under budget!
Period groupings, photos, and artwork speak for themselves, ranging through opulence of orchestrates, unfortunate conditions of work camps, and overbearing presence of our military. Historic relics and artifacts trifled with interest, but don't miss the series of bonds that supported project funding. They're worth close inspection as is the distinguished collection of Balboa coins; the original currency replaced by U.S. $-bills.
For all the meddling, Panama has undeniably benefited. While most of Latin America languished during the 20th century, the U.S. established infrastructures that also included education, health care, and the first potable water south of our borders. Knowing that ahead of time will help 'read between the lines' if you don't understand details, or have an English-speaking guide.
The technology groupings were something to marvel. The Canal mandated electricity and contact to the outside world. Comprehensive displays were probably the most enlightening; especially spools of giant communication cables which threaded ocean floors. Progress is laid-out from rudimentary to advanced,
before everything went high-tech satellite.
-- This, and the surrounding Casco Viejo neighborhood, provided my favored experiences; entrance fee the best $2 I spent while in Panama City. History buffs won't want to miss this, though kids will probably be extremely bored.
-- The
Museum is closed on Mondays, refreshingly air-conditioned, and totally handicap accessible. Photos aren't permitted inside, and there were ample security guards to insure nobody sneaks one, either.
-- Attached photos are from other points of interest next to the museum, around
Plaza de la Independencia.
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