Omar Torrijos

Omar Torrijos was a Panamanian military leader and politician who led Panama from 1968 until his death in 1981. He is best known for advocating for social reforms and negotiating the Canal Zone transfer, which returned control of the Panama Canal from the United States to Panama in 1977. Torrijos implemented policies aimed at improving living conditions for Panamanians and reducing U.S. influence. His leadership combined military authority with efforts to promote national sovereignty and economic development, making him a pivotal figure in Panama's modern history.