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250
Mayan Period
The Mayan culture was at its peak from 250-900 AD. Many Mayan scholars contributed to education during this period. -
Jan 1, 1523
End of the Mayan Period
The Spanish man named Pedro de Alvarado defeated the Mayans. Next, he turned Guatemala into a colony. -
Independence Day
Guatemala became independent. The country planned to join the Mexican empire. -
Guatemala Joins the United Provinces of Central America
Guatemala became a member of the United Provinces of Central America. The United Provinces of Central America includes Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua. -
President Juan Jose Arevalo
Juan Jose Arevalo became president and instituted social-democratic reforms. He set up a social security system and handed out land to peasants. -
Beginning of the Civil War
Left-wing guerrilla groups fought government military forces. The war was between the government and the poor. -
Guerrilla Activity
Many people were killed by soldiers and death squads. They were killed because of the increasing anti-government guerrilla activity. -
Efrain Rios Montt
Efrain Rios Montt received power after the military coup. During the civil war, he was held responsible for the awful events that occurred. -
End of the Civil War
Alvaro Arzu became the new president. The civil war came to an end, and peace documents were signed. -
Border Argument
Guatemala and Belize accepted a draft settlement about a border argument. The Organization of American States brokered their talks.
