Costa Rica

On September 15, 1821, Costa Rica and other Central American countries declared independence from Spanish rule. This date marks the beginning of a new era for Costa Rica, as the country shifted from a Spanish colony to part of the Federal Republic of Central America before eventually becoming a sovereign nation. The independence was achieved without any significant battles or wars in the Costa Rican territory, reflecting a relatively peaceful transition compared to other regions. Today, September 15 is celebrated as Independence Day in Costa Rica with parades, cultural events, and patriotic displays throughout the country.

The Costa Rican Civil War took place in 1948 and lasted for about 44 days, making it one of the shortest civil wars in Latin American history. It was triggered by a disputed presidential election between Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia and Otilio Ulate Blanco. The conflict resulted in over 2,000 soldiers being killed, and it ended with José Figueres Ferrer leading a successful revolution. After the war, the government's structure underwent significant reforms, including the abolition of the military. The civil war is a pivotal moment in Costa Rica's history, leading to the creation of a peaceful and stable democracy.

On November 7, 1949, Costa Rica made the unprecedented decision to abolish its military forces and enshrine this in its constitution. This groundbreaking move followed the victory of José Figueres Ferrer in the civil war and was intended to redirect military spending towards education, healthcare, and cultural programs. Abolishing the military has significantly influenced Costa Rica's political and social landscape, fostering a culture of peace and stability. Today, Costa Rica is one of the few countries in the world without a standing army, an identity it embraces with pride.

Óscar Arias Sánchez, the then-President of Costa Rica, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on December 10, 1987, for his efforts to end the armed conflicts in Central America. His plan, known as the Esquipulas II Accords, laid the foundation for peace processes in several countries and emphasized dialogue over violence. The accords included measures for verified ceasefires, democratization, free elections, arms control, and security issues. Arias's efforts not only brought peace to the region but also solidified Costa Rica's reputation as a neutral and peace-promoting nation globally.

Laura Chinchilla Miranda made history on May 8, 2010, when she took office as Costa Rica's first female president. Her election was a significant milestone for gender equality in the country, and her presidency focused on improving security, sustainable economic growth, and advancing social welfare programs. Laura Chinchilla's tenure also highlighted efforts to combat drug trafficking while maintaining Costa Rica's commitment to peace and environmental policies. Her administration faced challenges such as global economic pressures and maintaining the balance between development and environmental conservation.

In 2015, Costa Rica achieved an impressive milestone in its commitment to renewable energy by running exclusively on renewable energy for 94 consecutive days. This accomplishment demonstrates the country's dedication to environmental sustainability and highlights its rich natural resources including hydroelectric, wind, and solar power. The initiative is part of Costa Rica's broader efforts to become the world's first carbon-neutral country, emphasizing the need for sustainable policies that benefit both the environment and its inhabitants. The achievement set a global example and inspired other nations to pursue similar goals.

On April 20, 2017, archeologists continued their exploration and study of the mysterious stone spheres in the Diquís Delta of Costa Rica. These spheres, dating back to the pre-Columbian era, are among the most enigmatic of the country's archaeological artifacts. Made from gabbro, a volcanic rock, and ranging in size from a few centimeters to over 2 meters in diameter, the spheres have prompted numerous theories regarding their purpose and construction. They are a valuable cultural symbol, showcasing the advanced capability and craftsmanship of pre-Columbian societies in Costa Rica.

On May 8, 2018, Carlos Alvarado Quesada was inaugurated as President of Costa Rica at the age of 38, becoming one of the youngest leaders in the country's history. Prior to his presidency, he served as the Minister of Labor and Social Security. His administration has been noted for its focus on decarbonization, public infrastructure improvements, and social equality. Alvarado launched the Decarbonization Plan of Costa Rica, aiming to make the country carbon neutral by 2050. His young and dynamic leadership brought a modern perspective to Costa Rican politics, continuing the tradition of peaceful governance.

On June 26, 2019, Costa Rica passed a groundbreaking law banning the import and sale of polystyrene, a common form of plastic used extensively in packaging and food containers. This environmental legislation is part of a broader effort to combat plastic pollution and protect the country's rich biodiversity. By implementing this ban, Costa Rica has positioned itself as a leader in environmental policy, setting an example for other nations to follow. This decision supports Costa Rica's goal to eliminate all single-use plastics by 2021, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

In August 2022, Costa Rica expanded its commitment to ocean conservation by establishing a new marine protected area (MPA) in the Pacific Ocean. This protected area, covering thousands of square kilometers, aims to preserve biodiversity, protect endangered marine species, and enhance fisheries management. The establishment of the MPA reflects Costa Rica's continued leadership in environmental conservation and aligns with international goals to protect at least 30% of the world's oceans by 2030. By safeguarding marine ecosystems, Costa Rica reinforces its global standing as a pioneer in sustainable environmental practices.