Day of the Primer Grito de Independencia is a public holiday in the Republic of Panama, observed on November 10 every year. If the holiday falls on a weekend, it may be celebrated as a public holiday the following Monday. Many people in the nation eagerly anticipate this day. First Call for Independence of the Villa of Los Santos is the full name of the celebration. The day is also known as the Uprising of Los Santos or the First Call for Independence.
History of Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia”
Day of the Primer Grito de Independencia is a unique holiday that occurs every year in the beautiful country of Panama. Spanish explorers regarded the area of present-day Panama to be an early stopping point. On their way to South America, they began by making their first forays here. Vasco Nunez de Balboa, a Spanish explorer, claimed Panama for their King in 1513. Then, for approximately 300 years, Panama was a colony of the Spanish Empire. Panama City became the first European settlement on the coasts of the Pacific in the year 1519. In the same year, the isthmus also rose to prominence within the Spanish Empire.
The struggle for independence in Panama started in Los Santos, an area in the eastern part of the Azuero Peninsula, on November 10, 1821. It was called the “Grito de La Villa de Los Santos.” It was during this event that the residents of the Azuero declared their separation from the Spanish Empire. A young woman is believed to have led a group of people to the barracks.
They marched and chanted the phrase “long live liberty!” as they went. Not all Panamanians were in support of the call for independence. Despite this, the uprising was able to gather support. It inspired enough momentum to bring liberty to Panama. On November 28, 1821, the Independence Act of Panama was officially declared.
Since becoming independent, Panama has prospered as a center of trade. The most prosperous city in Central America can be said to be Panama City. The practical construction of the canal brought about numerous changes in the nation.
Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia” timeline
Panama City is the first European settlement on the shores of the Pacific.
The residents of the Azuero declare their separation from the Spanish Empire.
The Independence Act of Panama becomes official on November 28.
Panama gains its independence from Colombia.
Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia” FAQs
What do you call someone from Panama?
You can call a person who comes from Panama a Panamanian.
When was the Panama Canal finished?
In 1914, the Panama Canal was completed.
When did Panama gain control of the canal?
The United States handed up the complete authority of the canal to the Panamanian government in 1999.
Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia” Activities
Visit Panama
Panama is a beautiful country that many people have enjoyed visiting and touring. Panama has it all if you're seeking an adventure vacation: culture, tropical beaches, history, and wildlife.
Learn Spanish
You can take some time to learn the Spanish language spoken in Panama. The language will help you understand the people in Panama.
Make some Panamanian cuisine
You can make some food using Panamanian ingredients. Common ingredients in Panamanian food are maize, rice, wheat flour, plantains, yuca (cassava), beef, chicken, pork, and seafood. Invite your friends and family over and have a feast.
5 Interesting Facts About Panama
It is a republic
Panama is a republic and is officially referred to as the Republic of Panama.
A treaty was signed
Panama signed a treaty with the United States, leading to many economic changes.
Panama is an independent nation
Panama declared its independence from Colombia in 1903 and began to operate as an independent nation.
The canal cost lives
About 25,000 lives were lost during the various attempts at constructing the Panama Canal.
A center for international trade
Panama is now a center for international trade due to the canal.
Why We Love Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia”
The canal helps trade
The Panama Canal allows boats to sail directly across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This is great for the economy of many countries.
They have indigenes
Panama had indigenes who inhabited the region, and they were the Chibchan, Chocoan, and Cueva people. They are essential to the history and culture of Panama.
Panama is part of Columbia
Panama, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Colombia formed the Republic of Gran Colombia. Panama is still a part of Colombia after the partnership ended in 1830.
Day of the “Primer Grito de Independencia” dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | November 10 | Monday |
2026 | November 10 | Tuesday |
2027 | November 10 | Wednesday |
2028 | November 10 | Friday |
2029 | November 10 | Saturday |