The first president of Panama was Manuel Amador Guerrero, who served from 1903 to 1904. He was born in Turbaco, Colombia, on December 30, 1833, to Colombian parents. His father, José MarÃa Amador, was a merchant, and his mother, Mercedes Guerrero, was a homemaker. Amador Guerrero received his education in Colombia and graduated from the University of Cartagena with a degree in law in 1855.
After graduation, Amador Guerrero returned to Turbaco and began practicing law. He also became involved in politics and was elected to the Colombian Congress in 1863. He served in the Congress for several terms and held various cabinet positions, including Minister of Finance and Minister of War. In 1885, he was elected governor of the province of Panama. He served as governor until 1890, when he resigned to protest the Colombian government’s decision to sell the Panama Canal to the United States.
In 1903, Amador Guerrero was one of the leaders of the Panamanian independence movement. He helped to organize the Panamanian Revolutionary Junta, which declared Panama’s independence from Colombia on November 3, 1903. The United States quickly recognized Panama’s independence, and Amador Guerrero was elected the first president of the new republic. He served as president until 1904, when he resigned due to ill health. He died in Panama City on May 2, 1909.
Amador Guerrero is considered a national hero in Panama. He is remembered for his role in leading the Panamanian independence movement and for his service as the first president of the republic. A statue of him stands in the Plaza de la Independencia in Panama City, and his face is on the Panamanian currency.
Some of Amador Guerrero’s achievements and legacy include:
- Leading the Panamanian independence movement and declaring Panama’s independence from Colombia.
- Serving as the first president of Panama from 1903 to 1904.
- Negotiating the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty with the United States, which granted the United States control over the Panama Canal Zone.
- Promoting education and economic development in Panama.
- Establishing the National Bank of Panama.
- Improving the infrastructure of Panama, including roads, bridges, and ports.
Amador Guerrero is remembered as a visionary leader who helped to lay the foundation for a modern and prosperous Panama.
Emblem of Panama
To enrich your insights into presidential figures worldwide, also explore some prominent first presidents from other countries, such as Palau, Pakistan and Palestine. Delving into the leadership journeys of these figures can offer valuable perspectives on their historical significance and pivotal roles in shaping global politics.
The official residence and symbol of the Panama President
10 Iconic Presidents Who Shaped Panama’s History
Since its independence from Colombia in 1903, Panama has seen a number of presidents who have played significant roles in shaping the country’s political landscape. Here are 10 of the most popular presidents in Panama’s history:
- Ricardo Arias Espinosa (1934-1936): Known as the “Urban Parks President,” Arias Espinosa is remembered for his efforts to improve Panama City’s infrastructure and urban planning.
- Arnulfo Arias Madrid (1940-1941, 1949, 1968): A prominent figure in Panamanian politics, Arias Madrid served as president for three non-consecutive terms. He is best known for his initiatives to improve social welfare and education.
- Roberto F. Chiari (1960-1964): During his presidency, Chiari initiated a series of progressive policies aimed at reducing poverty and promoting social development. He also oversaw significant infrastructure projects.
- Omar Torrijos Herrera (1968-1981): Torrijos Herrera is often hailed as one of Panama’s most influential leaders. He introduced numerous social and economic reforms, including the renegotiation of the Panama Canal treaties.
- Eric Arturo Delvalle (1985-1988): Delvalle briefly served as president during a tumultuous period in Panama’s history. He is remembered for his opposition to General Manuel Noriega and his efforts to restore democracy.
- Guillermo Endara (1989-1994): Endara assumed the presidency after the US military intervention that removed Noriega from power. He successfully steered Panama towards democracy and implemented economic reforms.
- Ernesto Pérez Balladares (1994-1999): Pérez Balladares focused on economic modernization and attracted foreign investment during his presidency. He also implemented important social programs to address poverty and inequality.
- Mireya Moscoso (1999-2004): Moscoso was the first female president of Panama. Her administration focused on improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
- Martin Torrijos (2004-2009): The son of Omar Torrijos Herrera, Martin Torrijos continued his father’s legacy by pursuing social and economic reforms. His administration witnessed significant infrastructure development.
- Juan Carlos Varela (2014-2019): Varela’s presidency was marked by his commitment to transparency and anti-corruption efforts. He implemented various social programs that aimed to alleviate poverty and improve public services.
These presidents played instrumental roles in advancing Panama’s development and promoting the well-being of its citizens. Through their policies and initiatives, they left lasting legacies that continue to shape the country’s political, social, and economic landscape.
