Panama the Path Between the Seas

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Panama City, Panama The Path between the Seas Park University Quantitative Research Methods EC315 Instructor: David Torres December 13, 2012 Introduction Panama is known as the "Crossroads of the Americas" due to its privileged position between North and South America with the ease of travel and wide array of experiences, makes Panama one of the most attractive emerging tourism destinations in the world. In just one week, visitors can enjoy two different oceans, experience the mountains and rainforest, learn about native cultures, and take advantage of vibrant urban life. The capital, Panama City, is a modern, sophisticated metropolis that resembles the city of Miami and has established commerce, arts, fashion, and dining. The indigenous meaning of the country's name, "abundance of fish,” reflects Panama's reputation as a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and eco-tourists alike. As the isthmus, connecting two massive continents, Panama's flora, and fauna is incredibly diverse. History/ Background Panama has been part of the Spanish empire for over 300 years (1538-1821). Rodrigo de Bastidas first explored the Republic of Panama in 1501 from Venezuela. Different explorers have traveled through the canal such as Christopher Columbus in 1502 and Vasco Nunez de Balboa in a tortuous trek from the Atlantic to the Pacific in 1513. This trek demonstrated that the Isthmus was, indeed the path between the seas. Panama quickly became the crossroads and marketplace of Spain’s empire in the New World. The Gold and silver transported by ship from South America, then carted across the isthmus, and loaded aboard ships destined for Spain. The route became known as the Camino Real, or Royal Road, although was more commonly known as Camino de Cruces (Road of the Crosses) because of the frequency of gravesites along the way. (McCullough,

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