22 Were Killed After Trying to Raise the Panamanian Flag on the U.S.-controlled Panama in 1964

Today in Latin American history, 22 Panamanians were killed in a fight that broke out between Panamanians in Panama City and U.S. citizens living in the Canal Zone in 1964.

The conflict started when the Canal Zone’s high school, Balboa High School, defied zonal laws by raising the American Flag.  This day is known as Martyrs’ Day.

Some 200 Panamanian high-school students from Institute Nacional marched to Balboa High School to raise the Panamanian Flag alongside the American Flag. A fight broke out between the students and the National Guard was brought in.

The 22 who died have their names inscribed on a monument surrounding the flagpole at Balboa High School.

Other events that occurred on this day:

Today in LatAm history, the Portuguese prince Pedro I of Brazil decides to stay in Brazil against the orders of the Portuguese King João VI, beginning the Brazilian independence process in 1822

Today in LatAm history, Argentine actor Fernando Lamas who was known for his portrayal of the “Latin Lover” was born in 1915

Today in LatAm history, Dominican baseball player Stan Javier who played for the Oakland Athletics was born in 1964

Today in LatAm history, Argentinian footballer Claudio Caniggia who played for the National team & Atalanta B.C. was born in 1967

Today in LatAm history, Chilean actress Catalina Saavedra who gained international acclaim for her role in “The Maid” was born in 1968

Today in LatAm history, Brazilian footballer Lucas Leiva who plays for the National team & Liverpool was born in 1987