Synopses & Reviews
This study examines the development of Panamanian nationalism, focusing on the period from 1903 to 1941. Utilizing historiography, literature, public architecture, and monuments, Szok posits that Panamanian nationalism is, in part, a legacy of the nineteenth century when Panama experienced a nationalist movement typical of the rest of Latin America. This movement was a creation of the country's white elite, who feared the Afro-mestizo masses and sought the protection of outside powers. Later joining forces with the growing middle class, the upper class continued to emphasize liberalism and promoted nostalgia for things Hispanic. This effort left it largely divorced from the Afro-Caribbean culture of the terminal cities and would ultimately contribute to its loss of power in 1968.
Book News Annotation:
Szok (history, Eastern Kentucky U.) discusses a formative period in
the history of the republic of Panama during the years delineated by
the isthmus' separation from Columbia in November 1903 to the
overthrow of Florencio Harmodio Arosemena in January 1931. Emphasis
is placed on how Panamanian intellectuals envisioned their country
and the nature of the motives and interests that lay behind these
conceptions.
Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
Synopsis:
An exploration of how Panama's intellectuals developed a liberal-nostalgic identity, intended to modernize the country and control the process of change.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The "Hanseatic" Republic, Panama in the 19th century
"A Toiling, Broiling Legion," The Disruption of the Hanseatic Ideal (1903-1931)
Liberal Panama
Nostalgic Panama
Conclusion
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