Costa Rica: History

Prior to Spanish arrival, the territory now known as Costa Rica was home to smaller indigenous groups compared to neighboring regions, including the Chorotega and Boruca peoples, situated at a crossroads between Mesoamerican and South American cultural spheres.

Spanish colonization began in the 1560s, though the region's lack of easily exploitable mineral wealth and small indigenous population led to a distinct colonial pattern of small independent landholders rather than large plantation estates. Costa Rica gained independence from Spain in 1821 as part of the broader Central American independence movement, briefly joining the Federal Republic of Central America before becoming fully independent in 1838.

The 20th century brought progressive social reforms and, notably, the abolition of the national army in 1949 following a brief civil war, a decision that has shaped the country's political identity and enabled sustained investment in education and healthcare.