Panama was placed under Spanish control following the arrival of settlers in the 16th century. In 1821, Panama achieved independence from Spain, becoming a department within the Republic of Greater Colombia.
In 1903, Colombia and Panama had a disagreement regarding the permission for the United States to construct a canal across Panama. On November 3, 1903, Panama seceded from Colombia with the assistance of the United States. The canal's completion occurred in 1914.
Although the United States aided Panama in attaining independence, there existed a degree of resentment regarding the control of sovereign territory (the Canal Zone) by a foreign nation in exchange for annual payments.
In 1964, U.S. President John F. Kennedy consented to permit the Panamanian flag to be displayed alongside the U.S. flag at all non-military sites in the Canal Zone in response to the protestors. Kennedy was assassinated prior to the enactment of his orders, and subsequent modifications resulted in the removal of all flags instead of the display of both flags. The inhabitants of the Canal Zone, referred to as Zonians, expressed anger, perceiving this as an indication that the U.S. might withdraw from the region. The Zonians began to display the U.S. Flag in opposition to the established regulations.
The U.S. flag was hoisted at Balboa High School located in the Canal Zone. Approximately 200 Panamanian students marched to the High School carrying a cherished Panama flag, which they intended to display alongside the U.S. flag. A small group of students was permitted by the police to hoist the flag. Scuffles occurred, resulting in the flag being torn.
The desecration of the Panamanian flag prompted swift dissemination of information, leading to the assembly of agitated crowds at the border between Panama City and the Canal Zone. The situation escalated into violence, characterised by the discharge of firearms, driven by rampant speculation from both parties. The incident resulted in the fatalities of 21 Panamanians and four Americans.
The incident is regarded as a pivotal event that ultimately resulted in the U.S. relinquishing control of the Canal Zone. The region surrounding the canal was designated as U.S. territory until 1979, with the cessation of U.S. involvement occurring on December 31, 1999.
A march commemorates the route taken by the original student protestors. Survivors will deliver speeches detailing the events of the day.
