Guatemala Introduction - 2023

GEOGRAPHICAL NAMES 

Background

The Maya civilization flourished in Guatemala and surrounding regions during the first millennium A.D. After almost three centuries as a Spanish colony, Guatemala won its independence in 1821. During the second half of the 20th century, it experienced a variety of military and civilian governments, as well as a 36-year guerrilla war. In 1996, the government signed a peace agreement formally ending the internal conflict.

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Definitions and Notes

NOTE: The information regarding Guatemala on this page is re-published from the 2023 World Fact Book of the United States Central Intelligence Agency and other sources. No claims are made regarding the accuracy of Guatemala 2023 information contained here. All suggestions for corrections of any errors about Guatemala 2023 should be addressed to the CIA or the source cited on each page.