Panama

From ArticleWorld

Panama is a republic, which occupies the Isthmus of Panama, which connects Central and South America. To the west and east of Panama, respectively, are Costa Rica and Colombia. The Panama Canal bisects the country. The capital and largest city is Panama City.

Panama was a colony of the Spanish for nearly 200 years, until 1717, when it was handed over to New Granada. It later became a part of Colombia in 1821. Its significance was enhanced with the building of the canal (1848-55). The project ultimately led to a revolution against Colombian sovereignty and the establishment of Panama as a separate republic.

In 1977, Panama was finally given control over the Canal and the Canal Zone.