Question for Panamanians: source of "lengua azul"?

[LauriD]

I understand that the Spanish term "lengua azul" ("blue tongue") means a foreigner in Panama -- or that it did in the mid-19th century.

Does anyone know the source of this term?

Thanks!

L.

[Scriptonian]

Re: Question for Panamanians: source of "lengua azul"?

Hi Lauri,
Not Panamanian... but perhaps a connection to the term is found in the blue tongue animal disease that kills many sheep, goats, and cattle in Panama where farming is central to the culture. The virus is thought to be brought into the country by foreign animals. Hence, and because agriculture is critical to the people, any foreigner is a (suspect) blue tongue carrier. Good luck.