Guatemala

The region that is now Guatemala was inhabited by the Maya civilization, one of the most advanced and sophisticated societies in the pre-Columbian Americas. The Maya developed a complex society with achievements in writing, art, architecture, and astronomy.

Spanish conquistador Pedro de Alvarado led the conquest of Guatemala, bringing the region under Spanish control. This marked the beginning of the colonial period, during which the indigenous population was subjected to Spanish rule and culture.

Guatemala declared its independence from Spain, along with the rest of Central America. This event is celebrated annually as Guatemala's Independence Day.

Guatemala became part of the United Provinces of Central America, a short-lived federation that included present-day Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The federation dissolved in 1838, leading to Guatemala's emergence as an independent republic.

The October Revolution led to the overthrow of the authoritarian government of Jorge Ubico, ushering in a decade of democratic reforms and modernization known as the 'Ten Years of Spring.' This period saw significant social and economic changes, including land reforms and the expansion of civil rights.

A CIA-backed coup d'état overthrew the democratically elected government of President Jacobo Árbenz, leading to decades of political instability and civil conflict. This event marked the beginning of a long period of military rule and civil war.

The Guatemalan Civil War, which lasted for 36 years, officially ended with the signing of the Peace Accords between the government and the Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unity (URNG). The conflict resulted in significant loss of life and human rights abuses, particularly against the indigenous population.

A major political crisis unfolded as President Otto Pérez Molina resigned amid corruption scandals. This event highlighted ongoing issues of corruption and governance in Guatemala, leading to widespread protests and demands for political reform.