Exploring the Ancient History of U.S. Influence in Panama's Archaeological Sites

Exploring the Ancient History of U.S. Influence in Panama's Archaeological Sites

In the early 20th century, the Panama Canal Zone was under the control of the American empire, having been ceded to the United States through the Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty in 1903 [2][3]. This agreement granted the U.S. full sovereignty over the Canal Zone, effectively creating a U.S.-controlled territory bisecting Panama for the canal's construction and operation [1][3][4].

During this period, archaeological excavations were not a major focus for U.S. authorities. The interest in archaeology grew later in the mid-20th century, but extensive formal excavations were limited by the U.S. military and administrative focus on operating and defending the Canal Zone [1].

One of the most notable archaeological sites in the Canal Zone is Playa Venado. In the 1960s, American archaeologists claimed scientific superiority and collected objects from the site for American consumers and institutions [5]. However, a 2018 study disputed the hypothesis that individuals buried at Playa Venado were brutally killed and sacrificed, stating that the evidence is not evidence-based [6]. Instead, it was found that the people buried at Playa Venado received intimate care [7].

In 2024, Karl P. Curtis, a Canal Zone resident, requested a letter of recommendation from John Alden Mason to dig at Playa Venado [8]. Mason, however, was reluctant to provide the letter due to concerns about non-professionals conducting archaeological excavations [9].

Decades later, Panamanian newspaper articles referred to these excavations as "looting with a diploma" [10]. The researcher is now interested in understanding the licensing process for archaeological excavations at Playa Venado and what information was left out [11].

The issue of controlling narratives about the past is not a new one. Omar Torrijos, the former Panamanian military leader, famously declared, "Yo no quiero entrar en la historia, quiero entrar en la Zona del Canal" [12]. Critical histories of the U.S. empire risk being erased from public view, and many objects found in the Canal Zone were incorporated into an emerging idea of what was "American" [13].

In 1979, the U.S. ceded the Canal Zone to Panama [14]. In 1941, the Panamanian government amended its constitution to better protect its cultural heritage after American archaeologists dug up the Sitio Conte [15]. However, in 2025, there were concerns about a "camouflaged invasion" of US troops in Panama's bases [16]. The Trump administration is attempting to dictate history and demands the censorship and destruction of museums that explore and share diverse pasts [17].

In conclusion, the archaeological excavations in Panama's Canal Zone have a complex history. While the U.S. control of the zone was primarily focused on the construction and operation of the canal, archaeological interests grew later in the mid-20th century. However, extensive formal excavations were limited by the U.S. military and administrative focus on operating and defending the Canal Zone. The issue of controlling narratives about the past is still relevant today, as critical histories of the U.S. empire risk being erased from public view.

1. The expansion of personal growth and self-development through mindfulness practices can lead to increased productivity and success in career development.
2. Migration patterns have been significantly influenced by war and conflicts, with many seeking education and self-development opportunities as a means of personal growth.
3. Online education platforms provide lifelong learning opportunities, allowing individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge, even in the face of car accidents, fires, or other unexpected events.
4. In today's political climate, job search strategies must adapt to general news and the changing landscape of career development.
5. The ongoing debate surrounding crime and justice in American football, including sports betting, highlights the importance of goal-setting and responsible behavior.
6. The NFL and NCAA football seasons showcase the importance of sports and learning, serving as platforms for both skill-training and sports analysis.
7. Understanding the complex issues of migration, education, and self-development can aid in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
8. Rising concerns about accidents and general news events have led to increased interest in learning about disaster response and prevention techniques.
9. Despite progress in education and career development, there is still a need for extensive skills training to address the challenges of modern war and conflicts.
10. The excavations at Playa Venado have raised questions about the accuracy of history and the importance of proper licensing for archaeological excavations.
11. The role of archaeology in shaping our understanding of the past and its impact on personal growth and self-development remains a topic of ongoing research.
12. Learning from the past, including the history of the Panama Canal Zone, can help us make informed decisions about our future and the narratives we choose to embrace.
13. In a world that is constantly evolving, it is essential to prioritize lifelong learning and embrace a mindset of continuous growth and development.

Read also: