Unveiling the Integral Role of the Military in Panamanian Politics

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Military Foundations of Panamanian Politics

by Jagoda Marinić

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8063 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	255 pages

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Exploring the Historical Foundations and Enduring Influence

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The Republic of Panama, situated at the crossroads of the Americas, has a rich and complex political history. Throughout its existence, the military has played an integral role in shaping the nation's political landscape. From its involvement in the independence movement to its influence during the dictatorship era, the military has been a constant factor in Panamanian politics.

This article delves into the historical foundations of the military's involvement in Panamanian politics. It examines the factors that have contributed to the military's enduring influence and analyzes the impact it has had on the country's democratic development.

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Historical Roots

The roots of the military's involvement in Panamanian politics date back to the colonial era, when the Spanish established a strong military presence to control the region. This military presence continued after Panama's independence from Spain in 1821.

In 1903, the United States intervened in Panama, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Panama. The American military maintained a significant presence in the country to protect the Panama Canal, built between 1904 and 1914. This presence influenced the development of Panama's military, which was organized and trained along American lines.

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The Guardia Nacional and the Dictatorship

In the 1950s, the Guardia Nacional, Panama's military force, emerged as a significant political player. Under the leadership of Omar Torrijos Herrera, the Guardia Nacional played a key role in the overthrow of the civilian government in 1968.

Torrijos established a military dictatorship that lasted for over a decade. During this period, the military controlled all aspects of Panamanian society. It suppressed political opposition and media freedom, and it implemented a series of economic and social reforms.

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Transition to Democracy

In 1981, Torrijos died in a plane crash. The military gradually transitioned Panama to democracy over the next few years. However, the military continued to wield significant influence behind the scenes.

In 1989, the United States invaded Panama to remove Manuel Noriega, a former military leader who was involved in drug trafficking and money laundering. The invasion marked the end of the military's direct control of Panama.

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Enduring Influence

Despite the transition to democracy, the military retains a strong presence in Panamanian politics. It holds a significant number of seats in the National Assembly and controls several key government agencies.

The military's influence is also evident in the country's security policies. Panama has a strong military for its size, and it has played a role in regional peacekeeping efforts.

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Impact on Democratic Development

The military's involvement in Panamanian politics has had a complex and multifaceted impact on the country's democratic development.

While the military has sometimes been a force for stability, it has also contributed to authoritarianism and corruption. The military's role in the dictatorship era has left a lasting legacy of distrust and resentment among the Panamanian people.

Nevertheless, the military's gradual withdrawal from direct political control and its increasing professionalism have created opportunities for democratic institutions to strengthen.

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The military has been an integral part of Panamanian politics since the country's independence. Its historical role has ranged from defending the nation's sovereignty to controlling its destiny. While the military's influence has diminished in recent years, it remains a significant player in Panamanian society.

The Military Foundations of Panamanian Politics provides a comprehensive analysis of the military's involvement in Panamanian politics. This book examines the historical roots of the military's influence, its role during the dictatorship era, and its impact on the country's democratic development.

Military Foundations of Panamanian Politics is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history of Panama, Latin American politics, or military studies.

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Image Alt Attributes

* **Military parade in Panama City** * **Omar Torrijos Herrera addressing a crowd** * **Panamanian soldiers in the field** * **Panamanian military seal** * **Cover of the book Military Foundations of Panamanian Politics**

Military Foundations of Panamanian Politics

by Jagoda Marinić

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8063 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	255 pages

FREE