In 1821 the Criollo elite of Central America negotiate independence from Spain.
The United Province of Central America is formed, encompassing the area from current-day Guatemala through Costa Rica.
1837: De-Confederation
Central American confederation breaks up due to a split between Guatemalan Conservative Rafael Carrera and Honduran Liberal Francisco Morazan.
1871 - 1898: Barrios Era
Liberal forces seize control of Guatemala City with the backing of Mexican President Benito Juarez. General Justo Rufino Barrios initiates a liberal regime which conducts widespread land expropriations.
1898 - 1930: Cabrera Era
United Fruit Company is introduced to Guatemala in 1902 under President Manual Estrada Cabrera. UFCO. is given a railroad, port facilities in Puerto Barrios, and some of the most fertile land in the country.
1930 - 1944: Ubico Era
Country led by General Jorge Ubico in an authoritarian manner. Ubico re-institutes the Ley de Vigrancia, or Vagrancy Law, and creates a repressive state apparatus, including a secret police, in order to maintain control of the civilian population.
Refusal to hold elections leads to student protests and a reformist army coup on 20 October, 1944.
