Darien

Darien, or Panama. Isthmus of, is a horseshoe-shaped strip of land uniting North and South America, and separating the Atlantic from the Pacific Ocsan. It varies in breadth from 30 to 70 miles, and is bounded on the north by the Gulf of Darien, on the south by the Bay of Panama. The rainfall is heavy, and the climate unhealthy. Minerals, including gold, iron, and copper, abound, and a brisk trade is carried on in these metals and pearls by the natives with European traders. The isthmus contains a good harbour and excellent roadstead, and in parts is well wooded.