Martyr's Day

Martyr's Day, observed annually on January 9 in Panama, is a national holiday that commemorates the sacrifices of those who lost their lives during the 1964 riots known as the "Flag Incident" or "Día de los Mártires." This day marks a pivotal moment in Panama's history, when Panamanian students and citizens protested against the United States' control over the Panama Canal Zone. The protests were sparked by the refusal of U.S. authorities to allow the Panamanian flag to be flown alongside the U.S. flag in the Canal Zone, symbolizing Panama's sovereignty over its territory. The demonstrations escalated into violent clashes, resulting in the deaths of 21 Panamanians and several U.S. soldiers. The event galvanized national sentiment and played a significant role in the eventual negotiation of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977, which led to the transfer of the Panama Canal from U.S. control to Panama on December 31, 1999. Martyr's Day is a solemn occasion in Panama, marked by ceremonies, parades, and tributes to honor the martyrs who fought for the country's sovereignty and dignity. It serves as a reminder of Panama's struggle for independence and its enduring commitment to national pride.