In 1897, Spanish-born musician Santos Jorge composed the "Himno Istmeño", which was initially a student song but reached levels of popularity among the population.

[1]: 11 Upon independence from Colombia in 1903, William I. Buchanan, the United States' first ambassador and minister plenipotentiary to Panama, was to present credentials to the Provisional Junta of Government, and there was no anthem to perform, as required by usual protocol.

Al compás de sublime canción, Ves rugir a tus pies ambos mares Que dan rumbo a tu noble misión.

En tu suelo cubierto de flores A los besos del tibio terral, Terminaron guerreros fragores; Sólo reina el amor fraternal.

Coro Chorus: At last we reached victory In the joyous field of the union; 𝄆 With ardent fires of glory A new nation shineth bright.

In thy soil covered with flowers To the kisses of the warm terrestrial breeze, Warrior roars have ceased; Only fraternal love reigneth.