Guatemala - Country Details

Basic Information

Capital

Guatemala City

Region

Americas / Central America

Population

18,899,322

Area

108,889 km²

Currencies

Guatemalan quetzal (Q)

Languages

Spanish

About Guatemala

Guatemala's history is deeply rooted in the Maya civilization, which flourished for centuries before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. The Spanish conquest led to Guatemala becoming part of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, a period marked by colonial rule and societal transformation. Independence was achieved in 1821, but the nation experienced a period of instability and civil conflict throughout the 19th century. The 20th century saw a succession of dictatorships, often supported by the United States, punctuated by brief periods of democratic reform. Despite enduring a prolonged and brutal civil war from 1960 to 1996, Guatemala continues to navigate its path towards a stable and prosperous future.