What is Colón, Panama, and where is it situated?

Colón is a city and seaport located in Panama, adjacent to the Caribbean Sea. It serves as the capital of Colón Province and is strategically positioned near the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal.

What is the official Spanish name for the city of Colón?

The official Spanish name for the city of Colón is Ciudad de Colón.

What geographical features surround the city of Colón?

The city proper of Colón is situated on the Manzanillo Peninsula, formerly an island, and is bordered by Limon Bay, Manzanillo Bay, and the Folks River.

Who is the city of Colón named after?

The city of Colón is named in honor of Christopher Columbus, the famous explorer.

What are the current political leaders mentioned for Panama and Colón?

The current President of Panama is Laurentino Cortizo, and the Mayor of Colón is Federico Policani.

What is the land area of Colón city proper, and at what elevation does it lie?

The city proper of Colón covers an area of 2.4 square kilometers (0.9 square miles) and is located at an elevation of 9 meters (30 feet) above sea level.

What was the population of Colón city proper in 2016, and what is its population density?

In 2016, the population of Colón city proper was 78,000. The city has a high population density, recorded at 33,000 people per square kilometer (84,000 per square mile).

What is the population of the Colón metropolitan area?

The metropolitan area of Colón has a population of 241,817.

What time zone does Colón observe, and what is its country and area code?

Colón observes UTC-5, which corresponds to Eastern Time. The country code for Panama is +507.

What type of climate does Colón have according to the Köppen classification?

Colón experiences a tropical monsoon climate, classified as 'Am' under the Köppen climate classification system.

What historical event led to the founding of Colón, and when did it occur?

Colón was founded in 1850 as the Atlantic terminal for the Panama Railroad, a project that gained momentum due to the California Gold Rush seeking a faster route to California.

What were the two names used for the city in its early history, and why?

In its early years, the city was known as Aspinwall by the U.S. émigré community, named after Panama Railroad promoter William Henry Aspinwall. Simultaneously, the Hispanic community referred to it as Colón, honoring Christopher Columbus.

On what type of land was Colón originally founded, and how was it connected to the mainland?

Colón was founded on the western end of Manzanillo Island, a marshy islet. The island was connected to the Panamanian mainland by a causeway as part of the Panama Railroad's construction, and parts of the island were drained for building permanent structures.

What significant destructive events have impacted Colón's history?

Colón has endured several destructive events, including the Burning of Colón during the Colombian Civil War of 1885, a major fire in 1915, and the Great Colón Fire of April 13-14, 1940, which destroyed a third of the city.

How did the establishment of the Panama Canal Zone affect Colón's status?

Following a 1914 boundary treaty, Colón became an exclave of Panama, meaning it was a territory entirely surrounded by the Panama Canal Zone.

What was the purpose of the 'Colón Corridor' established by the Hull-Alfaro Treaty?

The Hull-Alfaro Treaty of 1936 led to the United States ceding the 'Colón Corridor,' a strip of land sufficient for building a road to connect Colón to the main eastern portion of the republic, thereby alleviating its isolation.

How did U.S. military actions in the Colón Corridor contribute to Panamanian unrest?

During periods of Panamanian nationalist unrest, particularly from the 1950s onwards, the U.S. military sometimes established checkpoints along the Colón Corridor, which is cited as a factor that fueled existing resentment.

What was Fort De Lesseps, and who was it named after?

Fort De Lesseps was a small U.S. Army Coast Artillery Corps fort situated at the northern tip of Colón. It was named in honor of Ferdinand de Lesseps, a key figure in the initial canal development.

When was the Colón Free Trade Zone established, and where was it initially located?

The Colón Free Trade Zone was designated in 1948 and was initially located in the southeastern corner of Manzanillo Island.

How has the Colón Free Trade Zone been expanded over time?

The Colón Free Trade Zone has expanded through land reclamation projects along the Folks River and by annexing parts of France Field (now Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport) and Coco Solo.

What factors contributed to the decline of Colón starting in the 1960s?

Colón's decline began with politically instigated riots in the 1960s that destroyed the city's municipal palace. This decline was further accelerated by the military dictatorships of Omar Torrijos and Manuel Noriega from 1968 to 1987.

What major urban renewal project began in Colón in late 2014?

A significant restoration and reconstruction project, involving parks, avenues, and historic buildings, commenced in Colón in late 2014, using hashtags like #RenovaciónColón.

What is notable about Colón's climate compared to other Caribbean coastal areas?

While many Caribbean coastal areas have a tropical rainforest climate (Af), Colón fits the tropical monsoon climate (Am) classification because its February and March are relatively dry. However, the period from June to December is exceptionally wet, making Colón one of the wettest sizable cities in Central America.

What were the population figures for Colón in 1900, 1920, and 2000?

Colón had a population of 3,001 in 1900. By 1920, its population had grown to 31,203, largely due to the Panama Canal's construction. In 2000, the population was approximately 204,000.

How did the economic decline of Colón affect its population's ethnic diversity?

The economic decline led many upper and middle-class residents to leave Colón, reducing its ethnic diversity. European and American expatriates, along with Panamanians of Greek, Italian, Jewish, Chinese, and Indian/South Asian heritage, relocated to other areas.

What are the primary ancestral backgrounds of Colón's current population?

The majority of Colón's population today is of West Indian or mixed mestizo ancestry. Additionally, sizable South Asian and Arab communities reside in the city's more prosperous areas and in gated communities outside its limits.

In which literary works is Colón or its historical name, Aspinwall, featured?

Colón, or its earlier name Aspinwall, is featured in Henryk Sienkiewicz's novella 'Latarnik,' César Aira's novel *Varamo*, Juan Gabriel Vásquez's *The Secret History of Costaguana*, and Georges Simenon's novel *L'Aîné des Ferchaux*.

What documentary film is mentioned as being set in Colón?

The 2002 documentary film *One Dollar, The Price of Life* is mentioned as having scenes set in Colón.

What sports team from Colón is highlighted, and what achievement did it have?

Correcaminos Colón, a basketball team from Colón, is highlighted for being the 2016 Basketball Champion of Panama and a participant in the FIBA Americas League.

What are the primary modes of transport serving Colón mentioned in the article?

Colón is served by the Panama Canal Railway and Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport.

Which notable figures from Colón are mentioned in the fields of arts, sciences, politics, and the military?

Notable figures include Anastacia P. Williams (RI politician), Kenneth B. Clark (psychologist), Billy Cobham (musician), Pedro Heilbron (CEO of Copa Holdings), Eric Jackson (journalist), Delia de Leon (actress), Jack de Leon (theatre manager), John McCain (US politician), George E. Pierce (US Navy Rear Admiral), and Juan Williams (political commentator).

Can you name some prominent athletes who hail from Colón?

Prominent athletes from Colón include boxers Alfonso 'Panama' Al Brown, Celestino Caballero, Miguel Iriarte, and Ismael Laguna; MLB players Rod Carew, Ben Oglivie, Manny Sanguillén, and Rennie Stennett; NBA player Gary Forbes; basketball player Ruben Garces; cricketer George Headley; long jumper Irving Saladino; and football players Armando, Jorge, and Julio Dely Valdés.

What is the significance of the image depicting the flag and coat of arms of Colón?

The image displays the flag and coat of arms of Colón, which are official symbols representing the province and its capital city, contributing to its visual identity.

What does the map of Panama show in relation to Colón?

The map of Panama illustrates the geographical location of Colón within the country, highlighting its position on the Caribbean coast near the Panama Canal.

What does the caption 'Colón between 1910 and 1920' suggest about the city during that period?

The caption suggests that the image depicts Colón during the early 20th century, a time of significant growth and activity related to the Panama Canal's construction and operation.

What is the significance of the 'Renovation Colon' project and its associated hashtags?

The 'Renovation Colon' project and its associated hashtags signify a major urban revitalization effort aimed at improving the city's infrastructure, historic buildings, and public spaces.

What role did the military dictatorships of Torrijos and Noriega play in Colón's history?

The military dictatorships of Omar Torrijos and Manuel Noriega, from 1968 to 1987, are cited as factors that accelerated the decline of Colón, following earlier political unrest.

What is the significance of the First Baptist Church of Colón in the context of the city's renovation?

The First Baptist Church of Colón is noted as one of the buildings whose renovation has been completed as part of the city's major restoration and reconstruction project that began in late 2014.

What is the historical significance of Aspinwall as a name for Colón?

Aspinwall was the name given to the settlement by its early United States émigré community, honoring William Henry Aspinwall, a promoter of the Panama Railroad, before the Hispanic community's name, Colón, became dominant.

What does the article suggest about the impact of the Panama Canal on Colón's population growth?

The construction and operation of the Panama Canal significantly contributed to Colón's population growth, with its population increasing from 3,001 in 1900 to 31,203 by 1920.

What is the significance of the 'Colón Corridor' in the context of Panamanian sovereignty and access?

The 'Colón Corridor' was a strip of land ceded by the United States to Panama under the Hull-Alfaro Treaty, crucial for providing Colón with road access to the rest of the republic, as it was previously surrounded by the Panama Canal Zone.

What literary work by Henryk Sienkiewicz is set in Aspinwall?

The novella 'Latarnik' (The Lighthouse Keeper), written by Henryk Sienkiewicz in 1881, is set in the lighthouse located in Aspinwall, which was an early name for Colón.

Who is John McCain, and what is his connection to Colón?

John McCain, an American politician, was born in the U.S. Navy hospital at the Coco Solo submarine base, a site that is now located within Colón.

What is the significance of Rod Carew's inclusion in the list of people from Colón?

Rod Carew is a notable athlete from Colón, recognized as a Major League Baseball player who was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991.

What is the primary purpose of the external links provided for Colón?

The external links provide additional resources for information about Colón, including its official website, a site dedicated to the city, and a map of Fort De Lesseps, offering further details and perspectives.

What does the presence of the Panama Canal Railway and Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport indicate about Colón's transportation infrastructure?

The presence of the Panama Canal Railway and Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport highlights Colón's importance as a transportation hub, connecting it via rail and air to other regions and facilitating trade and travel.

What is the significance of the 'November 5 Park' mentioned in the image captions?

November 5 Park is noted as being located within the Historic District of Colón, suggesting it is a significant landmark or public space within the city's historically important area.

What is the significance of the 'Inmaculate Conception Cathedral' mentioned in the image captions?

The Inmaculate Conception Cathedral is presented as a notable landmark in Colón, indicated by its inclusion in a visual overview of the city's key sites.

What does the link to 'Category:Colón, Panama' on Wikimedia Commons suggest?

The link to the Wikimedia Commons category suggests that a collection of media files, such as photographs and other visual content, related to Colón, Panama, is available for public access.

What is the historical context of the 'Burning of Colón' mentioned in the text?

The 'Burning of Colón' refers to a destructive event that occurred during the Colombian Civil War of 1885, highlighting a period of conflict that impacted the city.

What is the average annual precipitation in Colón?

Colón receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 2,807 millimeters (110.51 inches).

Col U00f3n Panama Wiki: Colón, Panama: A Strategic Nexus of Global Trade and History

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A Storied Past

Founding and Early Growth

Colón was established in 1850 as the Atlantic terminal for the Panama Railroad. Its strategic location at the Caribbean entrance to what would become the Panama Canal fueled rapid development, particularly during the California Gold Rush, which created immense demand for a swift transcontinental route. Initially known as Aspinwall by its American promoters, the city was also called Colón by its Hispanic inhabitants, honoring Christopher Columbus.

Trials by Fire

The city's history is marked by significant destruction. It suffered devastating fires in 1885 during the Colombian Civil War, again in 1915, and a major conflagration in 1940 that destroyed a third of the city. These events underscore the turbulent periods the city has endured.

Canal Zone Enclave and Decline

Following the 1914 treaty, Colón became an enclave of Panama, entirely surrounded by the U.S.-controlled Panama Canal Zone. The 1936 Hull-Alfaro Treaty ceded a vital corridor, connecting Colón to the rest of Panama. However, political instability, including riots in the 1960s and the subsequent military dictatorships of Torrijos and Noriega, led to a period of economic decline and population emigration.

The city's unique status as an exclave within the Canal Zone created complex jurisdictional and social dynamics for decades. The U.S. military's presence and control over adjacent territories influenced the city's development and contributed to local sentiments.

Modern Restoration

Beginning in late 2014, a significant urban restoration and reconstruction project was initiated. This ambitious undertaking aims to revitalize historic buildings, parks, and avenues, utilizing hashtags like #RenovaciónColón to track progress and foster community engagement.

Tropical Climate Dynamics

Monsoon Influence

Colón experiences a tropical monsoon climate (Köppen classification: Am), characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall throughout the year. This is largely due to the prevailing trade winds interacting with the region's geography.

Rainfall Patterns

While rainfall is substantial year-round, the period from June to December is exceptionally wet, with average monthly precipitation around 415 mm (16.3 inches). This makes Colón one of the wettest sizable cities in Central America, rivaling La Ceiba, Honduras.

Temperature Data

Temperatures remain consistently warm, with daily mean temperatures averaging around 26.7°C (80.0°F). Daily maximums typically hover around 29.1°C (84.3°F), while minimums average 24.9°C (76.9°F), reflecting its equatorial location.

Seasonal Variations

Although classified as a monsoon climate, Colón experiences slightly drier periods in February and March, distinguishing it from true rainforest climates found elsewhere along the Caribbean coast.

Climate Data Table

The following table provides a detailed overview of Colón's climate:

Climate Data for Colón
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	28.7 (83.7)	29.0 (84.2)	29.3 (84.7)	29.5 (85.1)	29.4 (84.9)	29.4 (84.9)	29.0 (84.2)	29.1 (84.4)	29.3 (84.7)	29.1 (84.4)	28.4 (83.1)	28.5 (83.3)	29.1 (84.3)
Daily mean °C (°F)	26.5 (79.7)	26.7 (80.1)	26.9 (80.4)	27.0 (80.6)	27.0 (80.6)	26.9 (80.4)	26.7 (80.1)	26.6 (79.9)	26.7 (80.1)	26.5 (79.7)	26.1 (79.0)	26.4 (79.5)	26.7 (80.0)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	24.7 (76.5)	24.8 (76.6)	25.0 (77.0)	25.2 (77.4)	25.3 (77.5)	25.1 (77.2)	25.0 (77.0)	24.9 (76.8)	24.9 (76.8)	24.8 (76.6)	24.6 (76.3)	24.8 (76.6)	24.9 (76.9)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	80.1 (3.15)	49.2 (1.94)	58.3 (2.30)	144.9 (5.70)	285.7 (11.25)	296.6 (11.68)	350.2 (13.79)	339.6 (13.37)	301.0 (11.85)	334.1 (13.15)	373.7 (14.71)	193.6 (7.62)	2,807 (110.51)

Demographic Shifts

Growth and Decline

Colón's population saw substantial growth following the construction of the Panama Canal, reaching over 31,000 by 1920 and approximately 204,000 by 2000. However, economic challenges and political instability led to a decline, prompting many residents, particularly from upper and middle classes, to relocate to Panama City or abroad, reducing the city's ethnic diversity.

Contemporary Demographics

While the city experienced a downturn, pockets of prosperity remain. Significant South Asian and Arab communities reside in the city and its outskirts. The majority of Colón's current population is of West Indian or mixed mestizo ancestry, reflecting its historical role as a hub for diverse populations drawn by the canal's construction and operation.

Cultural Tapestry

Literary Connections

Colón's unique setting and history have inspired literary works. Polish author Henryk Sienkiewicz set his novella "The Lighthouse Keeper" in Aspinwall (Colón). More recently, Argentine writer César Aira's 2002 novel Varamo, Juan Gabriel Vásquez's The Secret History of Costaguana, and Georges Simenon's L'Aîné des Ferchaux feature scenes and settings within the city, reflecting its enduring narrative potential.

Architectural Heritage

The city possesses a rich architectural heritage, particularly in its historic district. Ongoing restoration projects aim to preserve and revitalize these structures, acknowledging their importance to the city's identity and future.

Sporting Life

Basketball Hub

Colón is recognized for its strong basketball tradition. It is home to Correcaminos Colón, a team that achieved prominence by becoming the 2016 Basketball Champion of Panama and participating in the FIBA Americas League. The team plays its home games at the Arena Teófilo "Panamá" Al Brown.

Connectivity

Rail and Air

Colón is strategically connected via the historic Panama Canal Railway, facilitating crucial transport links. The city is also served by Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport, enhancing its role as a logistical and transportation hub.

Notable Individuals

Arts, Sciences, Politics & Military

Colón has been the birthplace or residence of numerous influential figures:

Kenneth B. Clark: Renowned psychologist whose testimony influenced Brown v. Board of Education.
Billy Cobham: Celebrated musician, songwriter, and bandleader.
Pedro Heilbron: CEO of Copa Holdings, a major airline group.
Eric Jackson: Publisher, journalist, and talk show host.
Delia de Leon (1901–1993): British actress.
Jack de Leon (1902–1956): British theatre manager and playwright.
John McCain: Prominent American politician, born at the Coco Solo submarine base in Colón.
George E. Pierce: U.S. Navy Rear Admiral and decorated war hero.
Juan Williams: Political commentator and author.

Athletic Achievements

The city has produced many distinguished athletes, particularly in boxing and baseball:

Alfonso "Panama" Al Brown: Historic boxer, the first Hispanic World Champion.
Celestino Caballero: Multiple world champion boxer (WBA, IBF Super Bantamweight).
Rod Carew: Baseball Hall of Fame inductee and MLB star.
George Headley: Legendary West Indies cricketer.
Ismael Laguna: Former World Featherweight Champion boxer.
Irving Saladino: Olympic gold medalist in long jump.
Manny Sanguillén: Esteemed catcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Dely Valdés brothers: Julio, Jorge, and Armando, notable football (soccer) players.

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References

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Colón, Panama

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Storied Past ⏳

⚓ Founding and Early Growth

🔥 Trials by Fire

🌐 Canal Zone Enclave and Decline

🏗️ Modern Restoration

Tropical Climate Dynamics 🌡️

🌧️ Monsoon Influence

📊 Rainfall Patterns

📈 Temperature Data

☀️ Seasonal Variations

🌡️ Climate Data Table

Demographic Shifts 👥

📈 Growth and Decline

🌍 Contemporary Demographics

Cultural Tapestry 🎭

📚 Literary Connections

🏛️ Architectural Heritage

Sporting Life 🏆

🏀 Basketball Hub

Connectivity ✈️

🚆 Rail and Air

Notable Individuals 🌟

🎨 Arts, Sciences, Politics & Military

🏅 Athletic Achievements

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 AI-Generated Content Disclaimer

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Storied Past

Founding and Early Growth

Trials by Fire

Canal Zone Enclave and Decline

Modern Restoration

Tropical Climate Dynamics

Monsoon Influence

Rainfall Patterns

Temperature Data

Seasonal Variations

Climate Data Table

Demographic Shifts

Growth and Decline

Contemporary Demographics

Cultural Tapestry

Literary Connections

Architectural Heritage

Sporting Life

Basketball Hub

Connectivity

Rail and Air

Notable Individuals

Arts, Sciences, Politics & Military

Athletic Achievements

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Considerations

AI-Generated Content Disclaimer