New-York tribune., 1905-08-07
AMERICAN INFLUENCE IN PANAMA.

A gratifying and encouraging development OF
Panaman opinion finds expression in a recent
issue Of the ''DiariO de Panama." or Panama
Journal paper which was founded only
few months ago. but which has already become
well established as the exponent of progressive
and liberal principles, and which is expressive
of the sentiments of large and influential part
of the isthmian public Its political attitude
and authoritative character are indicated by
the fact that at the head of its board of di-
rectOrs is Dr. Pablo Arosemcna. the Vice -Presi-
dent of the republic and the leader of the Lib
eral party. In an editorial article The Jour
nal" says
While sthmans are lOath to receive inspira-
tion and take example from a in whose
spirit and character there is more life and en-
ergy than in their own, they must remain
dead people. They have yet to learn the ad-
vantages of the injection Of new blood and the
adoption of new ideas, such as have Transformed
The government of the canal zone is teaching
the inhabitants Of the strip to respect the law
and conform to modern customs. The impulse
given there to public instruction is likewise to
be admired. To teach is to redeem, and the
isthman can be redeemed through the absOrp-
ton OF whatever may be good in the examples
set us by the progressive, energetic American.
AS observe the gradual change going
within the canal zone. and note the impress
sion made upon own people by the praise
worthy examples set by the American authori-
ties there we are convinced that the near future
ton in the history of the isthmus.
Americans might, in decacy and courtesy.
have hesltated to say such things reluctant TO
appear as if Wanting sef-esteemed superiority
over neighb0ring people proud in the posses
sion of an ancient and illustriOus lineage and
also Of fine degree of cosmopolitan. culture
But, since they themselves say them, il is not
unbecoming for Americans TO regard the utter
ances with approval, as auSpiciOuS of great
good for those who make them and who take
so and practical view of existing cir
cumstances Descendants of Cavaliers and
Puritans must grant precedence to those whose
ancestors settled Oh those shores with Bastidas
| and Balboa n century before jamestown and
Plymouth were founded, and the best Amer-
can scholarship will acknowledge its peer in
isthmians who have studied in the best uni
versities of both hemispheres and have been at
home in all the lands of the world. Neverthe-
less, it cannot he overlooked that in many prac-
tical respects the Panamans have, as The
Journal" says, much to learn from the progress
and energy of this country.
That they realize that fact and give public
expression TO it is compliment TO this country
which will not fail of appreciation. That they
see in the administration of the canal zone n
valuable object lesson is fife but we believe
fully merited tribute 10 Governor Magoon and
| his associates. Nor will it be ignored that
these same circumstances emphasize and I'm.
tensify the responsibility which rests upon this
| country in its intercourse with Panama and
| IN its administration OF the portion of that re-
public which it occupies and controls We shall
be glad to believe that Panaman appreciation
of American influence and services. and Ameri-
| can fidelity in the exercise and discharge OF in
! fu6nce and duty. will be equally maintained
III such circumstances we shall perceive the