mayan-site-of-copan
Archaeology has revealed a great deal about Mayan history in the region of Guatemala and Central Americas. From findings and research it is thought that the first human settlers in Guatemala were around 12,000BC or 18,000BC. When discussing the history of Guatemala we can divide the analysis into three subcategories; Pre-Columbian era, the Mayan Civilization and Spanish Colony and beyond.
1. Pre-Columbian era – archaeologists based much of their knowledge of early Guatemalan settlers on the thousands of Maya Ruins in Peten and throughout Guatemala.
a) Paleo-Indian Period – hunters and Gatherers. Evidence by archaeologists found it was around 6500BC.
b) Pre-classic period- historians have sourced evidence from the coast to explain how natives lived during the post-classic to classic period.
c) Classic period – this is recognised as the Mesoamerican civilization which is the height of the Mayan civilization. Researchers and historians have evidence from the Montagua and Copan River Valleys
d) Post classic period. The Mayan Highlands are where historians have sites to understand more about this period.
2. The Maya Civilization – Tourist websites, invite visitors to the Mayan ruins in Guatemala that date back to 700-900AD. Archaeologists describe this cultural group of city states as sharing; heritage in terms of language, customs, dress, artistic style and material culture. They are located in Central America and include; parts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, covering an area of around 150,000 square miles. The ancient Maya occupied a large area and have a significant culture that has influenced many to this day; including the Maya calendar that some believe predicts the end of the global age in 2012. The collapse of the Maya civilization is shrouded in mystery. Today, the Guatemalan inhabitants although seen as mixed heritage have a culture with a Maya influence. Foundations exist to keep the ancient language alive.
3. Spanish Colony and beyond: the Maya cities began to disperse and certain region abandoned by the time the Spanish colonised in 16th Century. Guatemala gained independence from Spanish rule in 1821 but was still part of the Mexican Empire until independence was gained fully in 1840’s.
4. The united Provinces of Central America or Federal Republic of Central America included; Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica. A constitution was drawn up and the Capital Guatemala city confirmed. The union dissolved in civil war in 1838-1840.
5. Liberal Revolution in 1871 – Liberal dictator Justo Rufino Barrios elected in 1873 focussed on economic growth rather than political liberalism. Reforming religion, schools, and increasing agricultural trade. There was a focus on modernization, improving trade crops and manufacturing. The exports provided funding to develop the city. In 1898, liberal leader Manuel Estrada Cabrera was elected. Controlling United Fruit Company and increasing Banana exports. The United fruit company in 1901 was a major force, increased investment capital into the country. The power of the company meant they owned shares in rail, electricity utility and telegraph.
6. The ten years of spring in 1944 – after the dictator at the time was overthrown and there was a period of social unrest. Followed a period of free speech and political activity, progress on land reform and a perception that there could be great progress In Guatemala.
7. Civil War 1960 – 1996 – between rightwing paramilitary organisations and left wing insurgents. Because of social and economic injustices, racism against the indigenous people. After the 36 year civil war, Peace Accords was signed on 29th December 1996.
8. Guatemala Today – Tourists enjoy water sports and swimming on the coast. Other tourist attractions include rainforests, and archaeological sites. Some places to visit include; Georginas, Guatemala city, La Antigua Guatemala, Lake Attilan. Tourists are attracted to its exotic tropical jungles, history, archaeology and coastlines.