Bayano

Bayano, also known as Ballano or Vaino, originally from the Yoruba community in West Africa, who was eventually captured by the Portuguese. He was said to be a strong leader who was heavily influenced by the Spanish. He is believed to have been in a position of power in Yoruba, as he developed traits of a king who would instill fear and obedience. Bayano, argued to mean “idol,” would ultimately go on to lead the biggest rebellions of enslaved people in 16th century Panama. He was even given the name “El Rey Negro Bayano,” by the Spanish, which translates to “The Black King Bayano.”

Different tales tell of the revolt in 1552 beginning either on the ship en route, or after landing in Panama's Darien province along its modern-day border with Colombia. The former slaves who managed to escape, known as cimarrones, or maroons, set up autonomous regions known as palenques, many of which successfully fended off Spanish control for centuries using guerrilla warfare, also navigating alliances with pirates. Bayano and his soldiers lived at the top of this hill in the palenque which was heavily guarded. The women, children, and elderly were located in a different area in the jungle. This area was heavily secluded due to the dense jungle, and would only be found years later after Bayano’s defeat. Indigenous and cimarron women were able to learn different languages to use to their community’s advantage and protection. They served as translators for Bayano and the different pirates who they formed alliances with. While serving as translators, these women also served as spies, gathering information for Bayano, as well as themselves.