By Jason Chavis
History of Costa Rica
Costa Rica was established as a Spanish colony during the 16th century. After centuries of European rule, it finally gained its independence in the early 1800s. Unlike many of the other countries in
Central America, Costa Rica has had a relatively peaceful history. Its greatest era of political upheaval came during a series of dictatorships in the early 20th century.
European Discovery
When Christopher Columbus arrived in Costa Rica in 1502, the region was inhabited by the Nahuatl and Chibcha peoples. Within a century, the majority of the indigenous people were killed by conquistadors and smallpox.
Colonial Period
Throughout the early Spanish colonial period, Costa Rica was considered the poorest colony in the empire. This was a result of its lack of proximity to Guatemala City, the financial hub of the era, and the fact that the indigenous people were not used as slaves.
Independence
The country joined the Federal Republic of Central America in 1823 following its independence from Spain. However, the federation collapsed in 1838 and Costa Rica declared its sovereignty.
Dictatorships
Two dictatorships seized control of Costa Rica during the early part of the 20th century. Between 1917 and 1919, Federico Tinoco Granados was president. Jose Figueres Ferrer became president in 1948 and served as such during three separate terms.
Democracy
A government junta rose to power in 1949 following a brutal civil war. A constitution was written, which instituted an election cycle. The junta surrendered its authority in 1953, and democracy took hold for the remainder of the country's history.
Resources
About the Author:
Jason lives and works out of Minneapolis. After 11 years of professional writing, he is the author of four books, two movies and a play as well as numerous articles for Scientific American, The History Channel, City Pages and The Onion. Jason is a graduate of the film school at USC.
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