The History of Costa Rica
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The civilization of Costa Rica began in 1522 when Christopher Columbus colonized the first European settlements in the area. Spain left Costa Rica to the Captaincy General of Guatemala under the rule of a military governor. The Spanish referred to the region as "Rich Coast", meaning that they found gold and other valuable minerals. Costa Rica later turned to agriculture, where they cultivated bananas and coffee.
In 1821, Costa Rica joined other Central American provinces through a joint declaration of independence from Spain. Although the provinces formed a Federation with each other, border arguments and disputes broke out among them, adding to the country's condition. Then after years of disputes, in 1838 Costa Rica withdrew from the Federation and proclaimed itself sovereign. The country ever since has followed a Democracy form of government, and in 1899 they held their first elections. Costa Rica then entered a civil war in 1948, when Jose Figueres led an uprising in the wake of a disputed presidential election.
More than 2,000 people died, and the 44 day civil war resulting from the uprising is considered the bloodiest event in 20th century Costa Rican history. In 1949, the country dissolved its armed forces and Figueres became a national hero. He then applied for president and won the election under the new constitution in 1953. Since this time Costa Rica has held 15 more presidential elections, the latest being in 2010.
In 1821, Costa Rica joined other Central American provinces through a joint declaration of independence from Spain. Although the provinces formed a Federation with each other, border arguments and disputes broke out among them, adding to the country's condition. Then after years of disputes, in 1838 Costa Rica withdrew from the Federation and proclaimed itself sovereign. The country ever since has followed a Democracy form of government, and in 1899 they held their first elections. Costa Rica then entered a civil war in 1948, when Jose Figueres led an uprising in the wake of a disputed presidential election.
More than 2,000 people died, and the 44 day civil war resulting from the uprising is considered the bloodiest event in 20th century Costa Rican history. In 1949, the country dissolved its armed forces and Figueres became a national hero. He then applied for president and won the election under the new constitution in 1953. Since this time Costa Rica has held 15 more presidential elections, the latest being in 2010.
The Flag
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Costa Rica has had two flags throughout its entire history. The country retained the flag of Central America until in 1848, in response to revolutionary activity in Europe. The Costa Rican flag incorporates the French colors with a red stripe going through the center. Today the blue represents the sky, opportunity, and perseverance. The white stands for peace, happiness, and wisdom, while red represents the bloodshed for freedom, as well as the generosity and vibrancy of their people. The Flag somewhat resembles the flags of North Korea and Thailand.