Mireya Moscoso

Mireya Moscoso was Panama's first female president, serving from 1999 to 2004. She oversaw the handover of the Panama Canal from the U.S. to Panama.

World Leader

July 1, 1946

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Mireya Moscoso, born on July 1, 1946, in Pedasi, Panama, is a notable Panamanian politician who made history as the first woman to serve as the President of Panama from 1999 to 2004. She is renowned for her significant economic and social reforms during her tenure, such as privatizing state-owned companies and implementing measures to combat corruption. Moscoso played a pivotal role in expanding international trade relations and safeguarding Panama’s role in the Panama Canal. As a member of the Democratic Revolutionary Party, she has held important positions, including Vice President and Secretary-General.

Moscoso’s background is quite intriguing, as she hails from a humble upbringing in a rural town and was born into a poor family. Before embarking on her political career, she attended beauty school and briefly worked as a hairdresser. Despite her career shift, Moscoso has retained an interest in fashion and style, earning a reputation for her elegant and sophisticated wardrobe.

In summary, Mireya Moscoso’s groundbreaking presidency, contributions to Panama’s economic and social progress, and her distinctive background as a trained hairdresser have solidified her status as a prominent figure in Panamanian politics. Notably, she was the country’s first female president and oversaw the historic handover of the Panama Canal from the U.S. to Panama.