November 10th Parades took place in Panama as the country proudly commemorated the 204th anniversary of the First Cry of Independence in La Villa de Los Santos.

This national holiday in Panama was celebrated with vibrant parades, civic events, and folkloric presentations throughout the nation.

The First Cry of Independence in La Villa de Los Santos, was a pivotal moment that initiated Panama’s journey to independence from Spain in 1821. As is tradition, the streets of the nation were filled with lively parades, official ceremonies, and cultural performances, uniting authorities, students, musical bands, and cultural groups.

Source: La Prensa 

History of the Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia”

The Day of the Primer Grito de Independencia is a distinctive holiday celebrated annually in the stunning country of Panama. Spanish explorers viewed present-day Panama as an early waypoint during their journeys. These explorers began their initial expeditions there on their way to South America. In 1513, Vasco Núñez de Balboa, a Spanish explorer, claimed Panama in the name of the King. For nearly 300 years, Panama remained a colony of the Spanish Empire, and in 1519, Panama City emerged as the first European settlement on the Pacific coasts. During this time, the isthmus also gained significance within the Spanish Empire.

The quest for independence in Panama commenced in Los Santos, located in the eastern part of the Azuero Peninsula, on November 10, 1821. This event, known as the “Grito de La Villa de Los Santos,” marked the moment when the residents of Azuero announced their break from the Spanish Empire. A young woman is believed to have rallied a group of individuals to the barracks, where they marched and shouted “¡Viva la libertad!” (long live liberty!). Although not all Panamanians supported the independence movement, the uprising managed to attract enough backing to create a wave of momentum that ultimately led to Panama’s liberation. The official declaration of the Independence Act of Panama took place on November 28, 1821.

Since achieving independence, Panama has thrived as a hub of trade, with Panama City often recognized as the most prosperous city in Central America. The successful construction of the canal has brought about significant transformations in the nation.