Conniff has carefully mined the rich secondary literature on Panama and neatly pieced together the significant aspects of its diplomatic, economic, political, and cultural history. He has written a masterful synthesis, complete with lively narratives and insightful analyses. Based on the theme that Panama–United States relations have constituted a forced alliance, the book differs from most others by examining the experiences of Panamanians and Yankees on all social levels.

—Journal of American History, on a previous edition

This is a balanced study. Conniff is no apologist for U.S. policy, but heunderstands the contradiction between the American perception of itself as a positive force and the reality of its often negative presence.

—American Historical Review, on a previous edition

Contains a cornucopia of information while at the same time providing some interesting detours along the way . . . An engrossing and informative book.

—Choice, on a previous edition

[Panama and the United States] is far from a dry chronicle of treaties. Panama is a colorful place, full of outlandish characters, and Conniff’s inclusion of social movements, mores, and personal factors behind the scenes make a readable account. Conniff lived and worked in Panama in the mid-1960s and traveled there afterward, cultivating original sources. . . . For the American reader especially, Conniff’s account of the end of the alliance offers a good approach to learn about Panama today.

—Joe B. Johnson, American Diplomacy

[Panama and the United States] is often insightful. Summing Up: Highly recommended.

—Choice

[Panama and the United States] is a fine documentary of Panama’s history and politics, and is a recommended pick for any college-level political studies holding strong in international U.S. actions or Panama history.

—Midwest Book Review