Explorations and conquest expeditions launched from Panama claimed new lands and riches from Central and South America. Other explorations sought a natural waterway between the Atlantic and the South Sea with the hope of reaching the Molucas (Spice Islands—Maluku Islands) and Cathay (China). Eventually, the practicality of the Isthmus came about as it was the middle of two oceans. Latin-American traders often passed through Panama before proceeding to Cuba before sailing to Spain in the Spanish treasure fleet. It also served a similar purpose to those going to Asia, in which case, Panama was a supporting node in the Transpacific Manila galleons connecting Southeast Asia and Latin America via Spanish Philippines.Connecting China with the Pacific World By Angela Schottenhammer(2019) (Page 144-145) However, at 1579, the role of Panama was expanded as the royal monopoly Acapulco-Mexico had, with trade with Manila-Philippines, was removed and thus Panama, by decree, became another port that could trade directly with Asia and the Philippines.
Explorations and conquest expeditions launched from Panama claimed new lands and riches from Central and South America Other explorations sought a natural waterway between the Atlantic and the South Sea with the hope of reaching the Molucas (Spice Islands—Maluku Islands) and Cathay (China). Eventually, the practicality of the Isthmus came about as it was the middle of two oceans Latin-American traders often passed through Panama before proceeding to Cuba before sailing to Spain in the Spanish treasure fleet It also served a similar purpose to those going to Asia, in which case, Panama was a supporting node in the Transpacific Manila galleons connecting Southeast Asia and Latin America via Spanish Philippines.Connecting China with the Pacific World By Angela Schottenhammer(2019) (Page 144-145) However, at 1579, the role of Panama was expanded as the royal monopoly Acapulco-Mexico had, with trade with Manila-Philippines, was removed and thus Panama, by decree, became another port that could trade directly with Asia and the Philippines.