Colón Department (Colombia) facts for kids
The Colón Department was a significant region within the Panama State during a time when Panama was part of Colombia. Think of it like a large county or province. It was named after the city of Colón, which was a very important port city on the Caribbean coast.
Contents
What Was a Department?
In the past, a "department" was a type of administrative division, similar to a state or province today. It was a way to organize and govern different parts of a country. The Colón Department was one of several departments that made up the Panama State.
Where Was the Colón Department?
The Colón Department was located in the northern part of what is now the country of Panama. Its main city, Colón, was situated at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. This location made it a vital spot for trade and travel.
Why Was Colón Important?
The city of Colón, and by extension the department, played a crucial role in connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Before the Panama Canal was built, the Panama Railway already linked Colón on the Caribbean side to Panama City on the Pacific side. This railway was a major route for goods and people, especially during the California Gold Rush. The department's importance grew even more with the construction of the Panama Canal, which officially opened in 1914.
When Did It Exist?
The Colón Department existed during the time when Panama was a part of Colombia. This period lasted until 1903, when Panama became an independent nation. After Panama gained its independence, the administrative divisions changed, and the department structure was replaced by other forms of local government.
See also
- In Spanish: Departamento de Colón (Panamá) para niños
