In 1501, the Spaniard Rodrigo de Bastidas, along with Juan de la Cosa and Vasco Núñez de Balboa, became the first Europeans to explore the Atlantic coast of the Isthmus of Panama.

In 1502, Spanish explorer Rodrigo de Bastidas visits Panama, which was inhabited by indigenous peoples such as Cuna, Choco, Guaymi, and others.

In 1509, Alonso de Ojeda and Diego de Nicuesa were granted authority to colonize territories between the Gulf of Uraba and present-day Honduras.

In September 1510, the first permanent European settlement, Santa María la Antigua del Darién, was founded on the Americas mainland near the mouth of the Tarena River in modern Colombia.

Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa claimed the land of Panama for their King, Ferdinand, and initiated the colonization of the area with the riches looted from the Incas.

On August 28, 1513, the Santa María de La Antigua del Darién mission was erected with Fray Juan de Quevedo as the first Catholic Bishop in the continental Americas.

Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa becomes the first European to see the Pacific Ocean after crossing the Panama Isthmus.

Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias Dávila founds Panama City in Panama.

In 1526, Pedro de los Ríos replaced Governor Pedrarias as the Governor of Panama.

Spanish Bishop of Panama Tomés de Berlanga discovers the uninhabited Galapagos Islands after his ship drifts off course.

Real Audiencia de Panama was founded with authorization from Nicaragua. This judicial district served as a court with specific regulations in place.

Sir Francis Drake conducted a raid on Panama, leading to the Spanish forming an alliance with the English to maintain control. The Spanish offered military support in return for guaranteed freedom.

The encomienda system in Azuero was abolished by the Spanish Crown in 1558 due to protests by locals against the mistreatment of the native population. This led to the promotion of a new system of landownership.

In 1624, the Spanish silver fleet sails to Panama.

Welsh pirate Henry Morgan lands at the gates of Panama City.

Welsh pirate Henry Morgan captures Panama City from its Spanish defenders.

Panama City faced ruin and devastation on March 14, 1671, due to various historical factors that led to its downfall.

The Darien scheme starts with five ships departing for the Isthmus of Panama carrying about 1,200 people.

Scottish settlers make landfall in Panama, establishing the ill-fated 'Darien Venture' colony.

In 1737, a fire occurred in the city causing significant damage to the buildings and structures.

In 1752, the Royal Audiencia in the city was disestablished, leading to changes in the local governance and judicial system.

The construction of a cathedral in the city was completed in 1760, becoming a significant landmark and religious center for the residents.

In 1820, the first printing press arrived in Panama, leading to the creation of a newspaper called La Miscelánea. The newspaper played a significant role in promoting ideas of liberty, independence, and the French Revolution, ultimately contributing to the cause of independence.

On November 10, 1821, residents of the Azuero region declared their separation from the Spanish Empire in an event known as Grito de La Villa de Los Santos. This marked a significant step towards independence for Panama.

Panama declared independence from Spain on November 28, 1821, and joined Gran Colombia.

Panama declared its independence from Spain on November 28, 1821.

In 1823, Consular relations were established in the part of Colombia that later became Panama with the appointment of David Craig as Consular Commercial Agent at Panama.

In March 1826, the General Congress of South American States gathered in Panama.

The Congress of Panama took place in June 1826 and was attended by four American states - Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Peru. The treaty drawn up at the congress aimed to bind all parties to mutual defense and peaceful dispute resolution.

In September 1830, Panama separated from the Republic of Colombia under the guidance of General José Domingo Espinar. This separation was due to political tensions and Espinar's rebellion against the central government.

In 1831, the isthmus reiterated its independence under General Alzuru, but abuses by Alzuru led to his defeat and execution by forces led by Colonel Tomás de Herrera. This event led to the reestablishment of ties with New Granada.

In November 1840, the isthmus led by General Tomás de Herrera declared its independence as the Free State of the Isthmus, establishing external political and economic ties.

On December 31, 1841, Panama's First Republic rejoined New Granada after being independent for 13 months.

In 1846, the US and New Granada signed the Bidlack Mallarino Treaty, granting the US right of way across the Isthmus and the power to intervene militarily.

On December 26, 1848, the first gold seekers arrived in Panama on their way to San Francisco.

In 1849, the Panama Star, an English-language newspaper, started its publication in the city, providing news and information to a diverse audience.

The Clayton–Bulwer Treaty of 1850 between Britain and the United States aimed to ease tensions regarding canal interests in Central America, including Nicaragua and Panama. It established a principle of neutrality for canal and railroad projects.

In 1852, Panama declared and enforced an end to slavery, 30 years after its abolition.

In 1853, La Estrella de Panamá, a local newspaper, was actively in publication, contributing to the media landscape of the city.

On January 28, 1855, the first locomotive traveled from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean on the Panama Railway.

The Watermelon Riot occurred on April 15, 1856, involving a violent disturbance related to watermelon sales in a specific area.

On May 7, 1873, US marines launched an attack on Panama.

In 1878, France was granted the right to build a canal through Panama but faced challenges such as bankruptcy and diseases, leading to the project's failure.

On August 17, 1879, Ferdinand de Lesseps established the French Panama Canal Company.

The construction of the Panama Canal commenced on January 1, 1880.

On February 24, 1881, De Lesseps' Company started working on the Panama Canal.

In 1882, L'Hospital Notre Dame de Canal was founded, providing medical services and contributing to healthcare in Panama.

In 1885, a revolt led by radical Liberals in Panama City resulted in a three-way fight, leading to the destruction of Colón. United States forces intervened, and the crisis highlighted the desire for independence in Panama.

The establishment of the city fire department in 1887 aimed to enhance fire safety measures and emergency response in Panama.

The French Panama Canal Company faced failure on December 11, 1888.

In January 1889, a receiver was appointed to liquidate the French company responsible for constructing the Panama Canal. This decision led to the cessation of all work on the project.

On February 5, 1900, the United States and the United Kingdom signed a treaty regarding the Panama Canal.

On November 30, 1900, the First Isthmian Canal Commission recommended the Nicaragua route over the Panama route for a canal.

In 1902, US President Theodore Roosevelt convinced the US Congress to take over the abandoned French canal works in Panama, leading to US involvement in the construction of the Panama Canal.

The Republic of Panama declares its independence from Colombia, marking a significant turning point in the history of the region and paving the way for the construction of the Panama Canal.

Panama declared its independence from Colombia on November 3, 1903.

Panama officially separated from Colombia on November 3, 1903, not to be confused with Panama's independence from Spain in 1821. This event is known as 'Separation Day' in Panama's history.

President Roosevelt officially acknowledged the new Panamanian junta as the legitimate government on November 6, 1903.

The de jure recognition of the new Panamanian junta as the official government took place on November 13, 1903.

The Isthmian Canal Convention was signed by Philippe Bunau-Varilla, representing Panama, and Secretary of State John Hay in Washington, D.C. on November 18, 1903.

Panama celebrates its independence from Spain on November 28, 1821. This event marked Panama's freedom from Spanish colonial rule.

President Roosevelt's speeches highlighted the US decision to unilaterally break with the Bidlack-Mallarino treaty and assist Panama in separating from Colombia. This interference was aimed at securing US interests, particularly transit rights over the Panamanian isthmus.

On December 25, 1903, William Buchanan presented his credentials as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Panamanian authorities, marking the establishment of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Panama.

The United States Senate approved the Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty on February 23, 1904, granting extensive rights to the US for the construction and operation of the Panama Canal.

On November 18, 1904, General Esteban Huertas resigned from his position amidst fears that he was planning a coup in Panama.

By 1905, the population of Panama had reached 22,000 residents, indicating growth and urban development in the city.

On May 1, 1908, Portobelo, Panama experienced the world's most intense shower with 2.47 inches of rain in just 3 minutes.

In 1911, Way On Cemetery was established in Panama.

The construction of the Panama Canal was finalized, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and revolutionizing global trade and transportation.

In 1915, the US Congress authorized the minting of $1 and $50 gold coins specifically for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition.

The Panama-Pacific International Exposition, also known as the World's Fair, commenced in San Francisco on February 20, 1915.

In June 1915, the US government minted the first $50 gold pieces specifically for the Panama Pacific Expo.

The Panama-Pacific International Exposition concluded in San Francisco on December 4, 1915.

In 1916, the National Exposition of Panama took place, showcasing the country's culture and achievements.

On March 5, 1921, the US issued a warning to Costa Rica and Panama to resolve their disputes through peaceful means.

In 1924, the National Archive building in Panama was officially dedicated, preserving important historical documents.

In 1925, a protest strike occurred in Panama due to poor urban living conditions, highlighting social issues.

A pact between the US and Panama regarding the protection and security of the Panama Canal was established on July 28, 1926.

The Communist Party of Panama was founded on April 4, 1930.

On November 9, 1930, the first nonstop airplane flight from New York to Panama took place.

A coup d'état took place on January 2, 1931, leading to the forced resignation of President Florencio Arosemena in Panama.

In 1931, Secretary Stimson wrote to Minister Davis expressing satisfaction with the legitimacy and viability of the new Panamanian government. This led to the resumption of diplomatic relations between the United States and Panama.

Davis attended an inauguration event on January 16, 1931.

On July 11, 1934, Franklin D. Roosevelt became the first US President to travel through the Panama Canal.

The University of Panama was established in 1935, becoming a key institution for higher education in the country.

The Legation in Panama was upgraded to Embassy status on July 14, 1939, with Ambassador William Dawson presenting his credentials.

On October 30, 1940, Cole Porter's musical 'Panama Hattie' premiered at the 46th Street Theatre in New York City, running for 501 performances.

In 1941, a coup took place in Panama resulting in Ricardo Adolfo de la Guardia Arango being declared as the new president.

On March 1, 1946, Panama officially accepted its new constitution.

In December 1947, Panama experienced anti-U.S. unrest, reflecting tensions and conflicts between the two nations.

On June 19, 1948, Panama and Costa Rica jointly recognized the state of Israel.

On November 24, 1949, the Panamanian National Police forced the resignation of President Chanis, who was succeeded by Arnulfo Aria.

Secretary of State Dean Acheson announced the renewal of diplomatic relations between the United States and Panama in 1949. The decision was made after consultation with other American Republics and upon receiving assurances from the Panamanian government.

The population of the region reached 127,874 in the year 1950.

In 1953, the first drive-in cinema, Auto-Cine, was opened in the region.

Panamanian president Jose Antonio Remon was assassinated on January 2, 1955.

On January 3, 1955, Jose Ramon Guizado assumed the presidency of Panama.

A significant event occurred on January 25, 1955, when the United States and Panama signed a canal treaty.

The Bridge of the Americas was inaugurated in 1962, connecting the two land masses.

President Roberto Chiari of Panama breaks diplomatic relations with the United States after riots erupt over the display of Panamanian and American flags in the Canal Zone. After tensions subside, Johnson begins efforts to renegotiate the Panama Canal Treaty.

In 1964, there was a outbreak of rioting against the United States in the Panama Canal Zone.

Panamanian President Roberto Chiari broke off diplomatic relations with the United States on January 10, 1964, accusing the U.S. of 'unprovoked aggression' during clashes in the Canal Zone.

On January 11, 1964, Panama officially terminated its diplomatic relations with the United States.

In April 1964, the United States and Panama reached an agreement to restore diplomatic relations.

On October 11, 1968, a coup d'état took place in Panama overthrowing President Arnulfo Arias.

On October 13, 1968, a Provisional Junta of Government was established.

On October 15, 1968, the Department of State spokesman announced the suspension of diplomatic relations between the United States and Panama due to events in Panama.

On November 13, 1968, the United States informed the Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs about the decision to resume diplomatic relations. This decision followed consultations with OAS member states and assurances from the new Panamanian government regarding its future conduct.

The arena, Gimnasio Nuevo Panama, was opened in 1970 for various events and activities.

On May 24, 1971, a tragic accident occurred when a commuter bus fell into the Panama Canal, resulting in the death of 38 out of 43 passengers.

Between June 19 and 29, 1972, Tropical Storm Agnes intensified into a hurricane and made landfall in Panama City, causing significant damage and claiming 128 lives.

On October 11, 1972, Panama established a new constitution.

On December 31, 1974, the Franklin Mint produced Panama's Gold 100 balboa coin after gold became legal in the United States.

The population of the region was approximately 404,190 in 1975.

On May 3, 1976, a Panama 747SP aircraft completed a record-breaking flight around the world, landing successfully.

On August 10, 1977, the United States and Panama signed an agreement regarding the Panama Canal Zone.

The Torrijos-Carter Treaties were signed on September 7, 1977, between Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos and US President Jimmy Carter. These treaties outlined the complete transfer of the Panama Canal and US military bases to Panama by 1999, while granting the US a perpetual right of military intervention.

Aristides Royo is elected as the president of Panama.

After 75 years, the United States handed over the Canal Zone to Panama, marking the end of its control over the territory.

Panama officially took control of the Canal Area, formerly known as the Canal Zone, asserting its sovereignty over the region.

Omar Torrijos, the Panamanian head of state and principal power in Panamanian political life, died in a mysterious plane crash on July 31, 1981. His death raised suspicions of assassination and marked a significant shift in Panama's political landscape.

The play 'Talent for Murder' by J Chodorov from Northern Panama debuted in London, showcasing the country's cultural presence on an international stage.

The United States completed the formal transfer of the Canal Zone to Panama, solidifying Panama's full control over the territory.

In 1983, General Manuel Noriega assumed the role of commander of the Panamanian army.

On October 5, 1983, Panamanian jockey Jorge Velasquez achieved a milestone by winning his 5,000th career race riding Banquet Scene at Belmont Park.

In 1984, American boxer Thomas Hearns defended his WBC light middleweight title by knocking out Roberto Durán of Panama in the 2nd round at Caesar's Palace, Las Vegas.

On February 17, 1985, Panamanian jockey Laffit Pincay Jr. made history by becoming the third jockey to achieve 6,000 wins, riding Doria's Delight at Santa Anita Park.

In 1986, Mossack Fonseca law firm started its operations in Panama.

In 1987, the book 'Panama: A Country Study' was published, providing an electronic version hosted by countrystudies.us. It offered insights into the history and various aspects of Panama, contributing to the understanding of the country.

On February 4, 1988, Panamanian General Manuel Noriega was formally charged by a US federal grand jury for drug trafficking and racketeering.

In 1988, the United States imposed economic sanctions on Panama.

In May 1989, Panamanian voters rejected dictator Manuel Noriega's attempt to become the president.

On May 10, 1989, General Manuel Noriega's government in Panama nullified the country's elections, despite the opposition winning by a 3-1 margin.

In May 11, 1989, President George Bush recalled Ambassador Arthur Davis and reduced the Embassy staff to essential personnel due to the political situation in Panama.

In October 1989, the Panamanian Defense Force's attempted coup against Manuel Noriega failed.

Nearly 26,000 US combat troops were deployed, attacking two dozen targets throughout the country using various tactical operations. The invasion resulted in the deaths of 23 U.S. soldiers, three U.S. civilians, approximately 150 Panamanian Defense Forces soldiers, and an estimated 500-700 Panamanian civilians, causing significant devastation to Panama.

After Manuel Noriega sought refuge in the Vatican nunciature in Panama City, the United States invaded Panama as part of Operation Just Cause. Noriega surrendered after 10 days.

On January 3, 1990, Panama's leader General Manuel Noriega surrendered to US authorities.

Former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega was transferred to a Miami jail on January 25, 1990.

An earthquake struck Costa Rica and Panama on April 22, 1991, resulting in the death of 95 people.

Documents released by the defense on May 15, 1991, claimed that Manuel Noriega was the 'CIA's man in Panama'.

The US trial of former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega commenced on September 16, 1991.

On April 9, 1992, a US Federal court found Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega guilty of 8 out of 10 drug and racketeering charges.

On August 28, 1993, Long Beach California defeated Panama to win the little league world championship.

Ernesto Perez Balladares was elected as the president of Panama on May 8, 1994.

A bomb explosion occurred at Alas Airlines in Colon, Panama, on July 19, 1994, resulting in the death of 21 individuals.

Ernesto Pérez Balladares was sworn in as President of Panama on September 1, 1994, after winning the election with 33% of the vote. He carried out economic reforms and worked closely with the US on implementing the Canal treaties.

Vinny Pazienza wins against Panamanian boxing legend Roberto Durán in a 12-round unanimous decision in a super middleweight bout, marking the 2nd time in 6 months that Pazienza defeats the 43-year-old Duran in a high profile pay-per-view match.

The Howard Stern Radio Show debuts in Panama City, Florida on WTBB 97.7 FM on September 16, 1996, introducing the controversial and popular radio personality to the local audience.

On May 2, 1999, Mireya Moscoso, widow of former President Arnulfo Arias Madrid, won the presidential election in Panama, defeating PRD candidate Martín Torrijos. Her administration focused on social programs, education, and free trade initiatives, successfully handling the Panama Canal transfer.

On December 31, 1999, complete control of the Panama Canal passed from the Panama Canal Commission to Panama, with administration now under the Panama Canal Authority.

In response to public protests, President Mireya Moscoso established a commission to probe corruption issues, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability in Panama's governance.

In 2003, the Panama Jazz Festival had its inaugural edition, showcasing a diverse range of musical talents.

In May 2004, Martin Torrijos emerged victorious in the elections and assumed the presidency of Panama.

Panamanian jockey Eddie Castro achieves a remarkable feat on June 4, 2005, by setting a North American record with 9 wins on the 13-race card at Calder Race Course in Miami, Florida.

In 2006, a $5.2 billion plan to upgrade the Panama Canal is approved, aiming to double its capacity.

Construction work to widen the Panama Canal commences, aiming to enhance the capacity and efficiency of the canal.

In February 2008, Panama experienced a period of labor unrest, leading to various socio-economic challenges.

In 2009, conservative supermarket magnate Ricardo Martinelli won a landslide victory in the presidential election in Panama. He succeeded President Martín Torrijos.

In 2011, several iconic towers including Tower Financial Center, F&F Tower, Yacht Club Tower, Megapolis Tower, The Point, and JW Marriott Panama were constructed in Panama City.

In 2012, two significant towers, Vitri Tower and Pearl Tower, were constructed in Panama City.

In 2014, Helmut Linssen, the German treasurer, stepped down from his position due to a scandal related to offshore banking accounts in the Bahamas and Panama.

On April 11, 2015, Barack Obama and Raúl Castro had a significant meeting in Panama, marking the first encounter between US and Cuban heads of state since the Cuban Revolution.

The release of 11.5 million confidential documents from Mossack Fonseca revealed widespread illegal activities such as fraud, tax evasion, and violation of international sanctions by global elites.

Sigmundur David Gunnlaugsson stepped down from his position following revelations of a conflict of interest exposed in the Panama Papers leak.

The inauguration of the third set of locks in the Panama Canal doubled its capacity, allowing for increased commercial traffic after an investment of $5.25 billion.

Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese journalist, was assassinated in a car bombing in Malta following her involvement in reporting on the Panama Papers.

In July 2019, Laurentino 'Nito' Cortizo of the Democratic Revolution Party (PRD) became the new President of Panama after winning the May 2019 presidential election.

Hurricane Eta made landfall in Nicaragua as a Category Four storm, causing significant damage and claiming the lives of at least 235 people across several countries including Panama.

An article by Alvaro Mendez and Chris Alden published in 2021 explores China's evolving diplomatic and strategic relations with Panama.