Date of independence, or formation date: 1838
Date when current borders were established: 1838
National day: Sept 15
Vehicle country identifying code: GCA
Time zone (hours plus or minus from GMT): -6
International telephone dialling code: +502
Internet country identifying code: .gt

The largest and most populous of the states of the Central American isthmus, Guatemala was home to the ancient Mayan civilization. Its fertile Pacific and Caribbean coastal lowlands give way to the highlands which dominate the country. Independent since 1838, Guatemala fell under military rule in 1954. Civilian rule was not restored for over three decades, in 1986. Some 60% of people live below the poverty line.

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