Why are toquilla straw hats called “Panama hats”? Week #3 Third Term 2020-2021

 WHY ARE TOQUILLA STRAW HATS CALLED “PANAMA HATS”? 

1. READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE

The History of Paja Toquilla Hats 

It is said that back in 1835, people in Montecristi, Manabi sent boxes of hats to Manta and Guayaquil to be exported to Panama. The time coincided with the California Gold Rush (1848-1855), which made the hat famous because of the abundant sun on the west coast of the United States. They became so popular in the ports of Panama that the name was quickly linked to that location. During the construction of the Panama Canal, Theodore Roosevelt, who was the president of United States at that time, wore those kinds of hats and contributed to their increasing popularity. Many workers also wore them. It is said that many passengers who were passing through the canal also made the hats famous. They became really valued around the world. Edward VII of England ordered a hat for himself and paid a lot of money for it. In 1985, the hat was selected as one of the 100 best designs ever by the Conrad Foundation in England. Also, in 2017, the UNESCO declared paja toquilla hats as part of the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. 

2. FILL IN THE BLANKS USING INFORMATION FROM THE READING. 

•  Paja toquilla hats are called _____________________________. 

•  Theodore Roosevelt wore those kinds of hats during _________________. 

•  ________________________ordered a hat for himself and paid a lot of money. 

•  In ______, the hat was chosen as one of the best designs by the Conrad Foundation. 

•  The _______ declared the hats as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.