El Salvador - Country Details

Basic Information

Capital

San Salvador

Region

Americas / Central America

Population

6,391,525

Area

21,041 km²

Currencies

United States dollar ($)

Languages

Spanish

About El Salvador

El Salvador's history is deeply rooted in Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Maya and the Cuzcatlecs. The Spanish Empire conquered the region in the early 16th century, integrating it into the Viceroyalty of New Spain. Following independence from Spain in 1821, El Salvador experienced periods of union with Mexico and the Federal Republic of Central America. The 19th century was marked by political instability and frequent civil wars as different factions vied for control. In the 20th century, El Salvador endured a brutal civil war from 1980 to 1992, resulting in significant social and economic challenges.