Guatemala

11000 BCE

Arrival of Paleo-Indian hunters

The earliest evidence of human presence in the territory of present-day Guatemala dates back to approximately 11,000 BCE. These early nomadic groups established the foundational presence of Indigenous peoples in the region.

250 BCE

Rise of the Classic Maya Civilization

During the Classic Period, the Maya civilization in the Petén Basin developed sophisticated mathematics, astronomy, and architectural styles. Major city-states like Tikal emerged as powerful political and cultural centers.

1524

Spanish Conquest of Guatemala

Pedro de Alvarado arrived in Guatemala and defeated the Kʼicheʼ kingdom, beginning the era of Spanish colonial rule. This conquest drastically altered the political and social structure of the region.

1821

Independence from Spain

Guatemala declared its independence from the Spanish Empire on September 15, 1821. It initially joined the Mexican Empire before becoming part of the Federal Republic of Central America.

1847

Founding of the Republic of Guatemala

Rafael Carrera officially declared Guatemala an independent republic, separating it from the failed Central American Federation. This event solidified the state's national sovereignty.

1901

Establishment of United Fruit Company

The United Fruit Company began operations in Guatemala, exerting significant influence over the nation's economy and politics for decades. This period marked the dominance of banana exports in the Guatemalan economy.

1944

The Guatemalan October Revolution

A popular uprising overthrew the dictatorship of Jorge Ubico, leading to a decade of democratic reforms. This era introduced labor laws, social security, and agrarian reform initiatives.

1954

Coup d'état against Jacobo Árbenz

A CIA-backed military coup ousted President Jacobo Árbenz following his efforts to implement land reform. The intervention marked the beginning of a long period of political instability.

1960

Beginning of the Guatemalan Civil War

A long-standing internal conflict began between the state and various guerrilla groups. The war lasted for 36 years and resulted in significant human rights abuses and loss of life.

1996

Signing of the Peace Accords

The government and the Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unity signed a series of agreements to end the civil war. These accords aimed to address the root causes of the conflict and integrate former insurgents into political life.

2015

Anti-Corruption Protests and Resignation

Massive public protests against high-level corruption led to the resignation and arrest of President Otto Pérez Molina. The movement highlighted significant public demand for transparency and justice.

2024

Inauguration of Bernardo Arévalo

Bernardo Arévalo assumed the presidency following a tumultuous election process marked by legal challenges. His administration faces the task of addressing institutional corruption and social inequality.