Martyrs' Day

Martyrs' Day in Panama, observed annually on January 9th, is a solemn national holiday commemorating the tragic events of January 9, 1964. On that day, anti-American riots erupted over the issue of sovereignty in the Panama Canal Zone, an episode often referred to as the Flag Incident or Flag Protests. The riots were ignited when a Panamanian flag was torn during a confrontation with Canal Zone Police officers and local residents, leading to a violent escalation that saw the involvement of U.S. Army units and resulted in casualties on both sides. This incident significantly influenced the decision to transfer control of the Canal Zone to Panama, as formalized in the 1977 Torrijos–Carter Treaties.

The origins of these events date back to Panama's independence from Colombia in 1903, after which the United States assumed control of the Panama Canal Zone. Tensions had been simmering for decades but reached a boiling point in January 1964. A decree limiting the display of flags in the Canal Zone was perceived by many Panamanians as a denial of their sovereignty. The situation escalated when Panamanian students attempted to raise their national flag alongside the U.S. flag at Balboa High School. This act led to violent clashes, and the tearing of the Panamanian flag became a flashpoint.

As anger spread, Panamanian crowds clashed violently with Canal Zone police, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. The casualties included Panamanian civilians and students, as well as U.S. military personnel. The international community reacted strongly, condemning the United States and contributing to heightened diplomatic tensions. These tensions eventually paved the way for negotiations leading to a new treaty.

The 1964 Flag Incident is widely seen as the catalyst for the eventual dissolution of the Canal Zone and the transfer of control of the Panama Canal to Panama. Today, monuments in Panama City commemorate these events, including one at the former site of Balboa High School where the Flag Incident occurred.

Martyrs' Day stands as a poignant reminder of Panama's struggle for sovereignty and the significant historical events that led to the country gaining full control over the Panama Canal.