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1519
Spanish Rule
In 1519 the diseases from the Spanish reached the native populations in modern day Guatemala. Thousands were killed and those who survived were later taken over by the Spanish. Eventually the entire region came under Spanish rule. -
An End to Spanish Rule
On September 15th 1821 Guatemala gained independence from Spanish rule and joined the Mexican empire. -
Full Independence
Guatemala becomes completely independent from the Mexican empire. -
Republic
On March 21st, 1847 Guatemala declared themselves a Independent Republic. Carrera became their first president and led the country with strongly conservative views and faced much opposition. He was forced out of office and there was much conflict in government after. -
Supreme Leader
Carrera returned to government and was able to fight its way back into position and named himself supreme leader of Guatemala. -
Depression
In 1929 Guatemala's economy causing loss of jobs and many unrest among workers, and laborers. -
Civil War
Attacks against the Guatemalan government from groups that were against the government began the fighting. The leaders switched several times and more rebel groups formed against the government. As the fighting continued many Guatemalans fled to Mexico and became refugees. -
Earthquake
A 7.5 magnitude earth tremor killed over 25,000 people. This was one of the larger of the earthquakes that threaten the people in Guatemala. -
Peace
After the fighting peace and agreements were made. Guatemala's economy began to improve and is now able to hold successful democratic elections. -
Treaty
In 2017 Guatemala signed the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.