Costa Rica's history spans over 12,000 years — from indigenous peoples, Spanish colonization, independence, abolition of army, to modern Costa Rica.
Indigenous Peoples (12,000 BC - 1502)
Boruca, Bribri, Cabecar, Chorotega inhabited Costa Rica. Less population density than in other Mesoamerican zones. Diquis stone spheres — archaeological mystery.
Spanish Colonization (1502-1821)
Christopher Columbus arrived on fourth voyage 1502 — named Costa Rica (Rich Coast) believing he would find gold. Few indigenous people, no gold — poor and isolated colony of the Empire.
Independence (1821-1838)
Independence from Spanish Empire September 15, 1821. Part of Mexican Empire of Iturbide 1821-1823. Part of United Provinces of Central America 1823-1838. Independent republic since 1838.
Coffee and Banana Era (1840-1948)
Coffee exported since 1830s — coffee economy. Banana dominated Atlantic coasts with United Fruit Company. Democratic period with strong institutions.
Abolition of Army (1948)
44-day civil war 1948 — Jose Figueres Ferrer won. Abolished army December 1, 1948 — only country without military in Americas. Saved money invested in education and health.
Modern Costa Rica (1948-today)
Stable democracy. Oscar Arias Nobel Peace Prize 1987 for Central America peace plan. Protected nature — 25% of territory. Ecotourism. Pura Vida national motto. 5 million inhabitants. One of happiest countries in world.