1. Panama Researched via: http://wikipedia.org http://wikipedia.org Student Name: Mark White Date: 5.28.10

2. Where is Panama located? Panama is the southernmost country of both Central America and, in turn, North America. 8°58′N 79°32′W

3. Flag, Motto, Anthem: Motto: Pro Mundi Beneficio; For the Benefit of the World Anthem: At last we reached victory In the joyous field of the union; With ardent fires of glory A new nation is alight. It is necessary to cover with a veil The past times of Calvary and cross; Let now the blue skies be adorned with The splendid light of the concord. Progress caresses your path. To the rhythm of a sublime song, You see both your seas roar at your feet Giving you a path to your noble mission. In your soil covered with flowers To the kisses of the warm clouds of dust, Warrior roars have ceased; Only fraternal love reigns. Ahead the shovel and pick, At work without any more dilation, and we will be as such at work and gala of this fruitful world of Columbus.

4. Government and Politics: Panama's politics take place in a framework of a presidential representative democraticrepublic, whereby the President of Panama is both head of state and head of government, and of a multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the National Assembly. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. For all people national elections are universal and mandatory for all citizens 18 years and older. National elections for the executive and legislative branches take place every five years. Members of the judicial branch are appointed by the head of state. Panama's National Assembly is elected by proportional representation in fixed electoral districts, so many smaller parties are represented. Presidential elections do not require a simple majority, and Panama's last three presidents were elected with the support of only 30–40% of voters.