
Manuel Noriega
1934 – 2017Panamanian military dictator who ruled from 1983 to 1989 and was later convicted on drug trafficking charges by a U.S. court.
44 notable historical figures from Panama, including leaders, artists, scientists, and other influential people.
Panama has produced 45 notable historical figures in various fields, with association football players making up the largest group at 25, followed by 15 politicians. The nation's political scene includes controversial leaders like Manuel Noriega, a military dictator from 1983 to 1989, and Omar Torrijos, who negotiated the Panama Canal treaties with the United States. Recent democratic leaders include presidents Juan Carlos Varela, Ricardo Martinelli, Mireya Moscoso, Laurentino Cortizo, and Martín Torrijos. Notable football players include Jorge Dely Valdés, goalkeeper Jaime Penedo, and Alfredo Anderson. The database also lists lawyers, ministers, and military personnel, showing Panama's contributions across professions. These figures illustrate Panama's transition from a strategic crossroads influenced by foreign powers to an independent nation with its own identity and international role.

Panamanian military dictator who ruled from 1983 to 1989 and was later convicted on drug trafficking charges by a U.S. court.

Panamanian salsa singer, actor, and politician known for hits like "Pedro Navaja" and his role in the Predator film series.

Panama-born jazz drummer and composer who gained fame with the Mahavishnu Orchestra and through his influential fusion recordings.

Legendary closer who played 19 seasons for the New York Yankees, recording 652 saves and winning five World Series championships before his Baseball Hall of Fame induction in 2019.

Panamanian businessman and politician who served as the 49th President of Panama from 2009 to 2014.

Panamanian striker who became his country's all-time leading goalscorer with 43 international goals before his death in 2024.

Panamanian diplomat and academic who served as interim President of Panama in 1984 and held various high-level positions in international organizations.

Panamanian military leader who ruled Panama from 1968 until his death in 1981 and negotiated the Panama Canal treaties with the United States.

Panamanian politician who served as the 50th President of Panama from 2014 to 2019.

Panamanian lawyer and politician who served as president from 1989 to 1994 following the U.S. invasion that removed Noriega.


Panamanian striker who became one of the country's most prolific international goalscorers with over 40 caps.

Panamanian lawyer and diplomat who became the 51st President of Panama in 2024.

Panama's first female president, serving from 1999 to 2004 as the country's 47th president.

Panamanian midfielder who has represented his country in multiple international tournaments.

Young Panamanian player who represents the next generation of talent in Panama's national football program.

Panamanian defender who scored his country's first-ever World Cup goal at the 2018 tournament in Russia.

Panamanian physician and politician who served three separate terms as president between 1940 and 1968.

Panamanian attacking midfielder and captain of the national team, known as one of Panama's most skilled and experienced players.

Panamanian defender who played a key role in Panama's qualification for their first World Cup in 2018.

Son of Omar Torrijos who served as Panama's 48th President from 2004 to 2009.

Panamanian politician and economist who served as President of Panama from 1994 to 1999, focusing on economic modernization and democratic consolidation.

Panamanian defender who plays for the Panama national team and has competed in CONCACAF competitions.

Panamanian beauty queen who won Miss Universe 2002, becoming the first Panamanian to hold the title. She also works as a concept artist in the entertainment industry.

Former Panamanian striker who became the country's all-time leading goalscorer and later managed the national team, including during their historic 2018 World Cup qualification.

Panamanian midfielder who has been a regular starter for the Panama national football team in World Cup qualifying matches.

Panamanian striker who has been one of Panama's leading goalscorers and played a key role in their 2018 World Cup qualification.

Panamanian sprinter who specializes in the 200 meters and has represented Panama at multiple Olympic Games and World Championships.

Panamanian defender who played professionally in various leagues and represented Panama in international matches during the 2000s and 2010s.

Panamanian winger known for his pace and crossing ability, who has represented Panama in major international tournaments.

Panamanian central defender who has represented Panama in international competitions and plays professionally in Central America.

Panamanian midfielder who has represented his country in international competitions and played professionally in North America.

Panamanian goalkeeper who earned over 100 caps for the national team and played professionally in multiple countries.

Panamanian defender who plays for the national team and has competed in European leagues.
Panamanian footballer who scored 43 goals in 69 international appearances and later became a football coach.

Panamanian politician who served as President of Panama from 1985 to 1988 during a turbulent period in the country's political history.

Panamanian forward who has represented his country in international competitions and plays in professional leagues across the Americas.
Panamanian forward who represents the national team and has played in European leagues including Spain's lower divisions.

Current President of Panama who took office in July 2024 as the country's 52nd president.

Panamanian midfielder who plays professionally in Central American leagues and has earned caps for the national team.

Panamanian long jumper who won Panama's first Olympic gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Panamanian goalkeeper who has served as Panama's primary keeper and played professionally in leagues across North and Central America.
Panamanian defender who has been a consistent presence in Panama's national team squad during their rise in international football.
Panamanian defender who played for the national team and various clubs in Central America.