Timeline
Inter-American Human Rights Commission released a report accusing Guatemalan government for thousands of illegal executions and missing persons.
1981
What continent is Guatemala located on?
North America.
What was the main reason behind insurgent groups that later became guerrilla groups?
Military leaders who increasingly controlled the government in the late 1960's into the 70's became violent to citizens.
About how many people were killed or disappeared during the Guatemalan Civil War?
Roughly 200,000
Which president took away voting privileges from illiterates?
Carlos Castillo Armas
President Ramiro De Leon Carpio begins peace talks between government and Guatemalan Revolutionary National Unity, agreements are signed based on human rights.
1994
What does the blue on the Guatemalan flag represent?
The Pacific and Atlantic Oceans that border Guatemala on each side.
Who contributed to the unequal distribution of wealth among Guatemala?
Elites and multinational corporations like the United Fruit Company.
How much of the population is in poverty today?
59.3% (2014) over half being indigenous.
What are the indigenous people of Guatemala called?
The Mayan
What year did Guatemala gain independence?
1821
What is the capital of Guatemala?
Guatemala City.
What country continued to support Guatemala military while aware of the abuse towards citizens?
United States.
What happened when Ronald Reagan lifted the U.S. embargo in 1983?
The CIA declassified even more military abuse than before, it was the most brutal part of the war.
Which president placed the country under siege, giving military more control over civilians?
Carlos Arana
Peace agreements were finalized during Alvaro Arzu presidency, and the peace accord was signed ending the 36-year long war.
1996
What is Guatemala's official language?
Spanish.
What happened when president Jimmy Carter banned all Defense Department sales of military equipment and commercial sales?
The United States still shipped approved shipments.
What have Guatemalans done to create a new life for themselves?
Some have tried to resettle in other parts of the country while others have tried to come to the United States.
Which president annulled the 1965 constitution, dissolved Congress, and suspended political parties?
Efrain Rios Montt
One of the most violent periods of the war where a large number of indigenous civilians were killed.
1982
What kind of government does Guatemala have?
Democratic Republic.
What happened when president Ronald Reagan created an embargo with Guatemala?
Financial support and military advising continued, while Israel supported with military equipment.
What has been the biggest struggle for Guatemalan citizens?
Recovering physiologically and trying to gain back material loses.
What is the Guatemalan Revolutionary National Unity?
A political party that began as a guerrilla movement.