The site of the Mayan civilization, Guatemala declared independence from Spain in 1821. It became a fully independent nation in 1838.

• 1954 US-backed coup topples reformist government.
• 1966–1984 Counterinsurgency war; highlands "pacification."
• 1986–1993 Return of civilian rule. President Jorge Serrano flees country after abortive "self-coup."
• 1996 Peace deal with URNG guerrillas, ending 36 years of civil war.
• 1998 Bishop Juan Gerardi, human rights campaigner, murdered.
• 1999 "Truth Commission" blames army for most human rights abuses.
• 2004 Oscar Berger takes office as president.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004