The presence of Black men and women in the Americas dates back to the 16th century. They were brought to replace the indigenous population decimated by forced labor, war, and disease.
These slaves were transported in inhumane conditions on so-called “slave ships” and distributed throughout different parts of the continent, including Panama.
Challenges and the Beginning of Their Contributions
Colonial Black and Afro-Antillean people contributed significantly to the development of Panama. They worked in gold mining, the construction of the transit railroad, and later, in the construction of the Panama Canal.
Although their enormous efforts made significant contributions to the country’s progress, they suffered discrimination, mistreatment, and contempt, despite performing difficult and poorly paid tasks.
Blend of African Traditions and Local Heritage
Afro-Panamanian culture is a blend of African traditions and local customs. Its influence is reflected in the cuisine, music, dance, and festivities.
If you want to learn firsthand about the history of the Black ethnic group in Panama, the Afro-Antillean Museum exhibits photographs and utensils used by workers during the construction of the railroad and the Panama Canal.
Major Contributions to Art, Gastronomy, and Music
The contributions of the Black ethnic group in Panama are a history of art, gastronomy, and music, and, above all, a history of hard work and effort that has grown over five centuries. Some of these contributions include:
Dance: The Congo is a traditional dance, very popular in the province of Colon. Today, it is recognized as intangible heritage by UNESCO, and the Bullerengue is a tradition in the province of Darién. Gastronomy: Part of Panamanian cuisine is influenced by Afro-descendant culture. It’s very common to find traditional Saus at a party, or rice with coconut and guando, present at every festivity, regardless of race or social status.
Music: Calypso and Caribbean rhythms are influential, especially in the provinces of Colon and Bocas del Toro, as well as English-language reggae, which influenced the creation of Spanish-language reggae in Panama.
Prominent Personalities in Panamanian History
Panama has a long list of prominent Black Panamanians who have achieved feats in a wide variety of areas of life. The first worth mentioning are the Maroons Bayano and Anton Mandinga, revolutionary leaders during the Spanish colonial era. Artists Alfredo Sinclair and his daughter Olga Sinclair created a legacy in the arts in Panama that remains one of the most important in the country today. Athletes Irving Saladino and Julio Dely Valdes are two of the most distinguished athletes internationally. Saladino is the only Olympic medalist from Panama, and Dely Valdes is the soccer player who has reached the furthest internationally, playing for major teams such as Valencia in Spain and Olympique de Marseille in France.
