Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a country located in Central America. Known for its biodiversity, the country is home to an abundance of natural wonders, including:
History
The history of Costa Rica can be divided into several key periods:
- Pre-Columbian Era: Indigenous groups like the Bribri and Cabécar inhabited the region before the arrival of Europeans.
- Colonial Period: Spain colonized the area in the 16th century. Unlike other Central American countries, Costa Rica had a relatively small indigenous population and less resistance to colonization, leading to a more peaceful transition.
- Independence: Costa Rica declared its independence from Spain in 1821, initially joining the United Provinces of Central America. It became a sovereign nation in 1838.
- 20th Century: The country experienced a brief civil war in 1948, which led to significant political reforms, including the abolition of the military, making Costa Rica one of the few countries without a standing army.
Geography
Costa Rica is characterized by its varied landscapes:
Economy
The economy of Costa Rica has traditionally been based on:
- Agriculture, particularly coffee and bananas
- Tourism, which is a major source of foreign exchange
- High-tech industries, with companies like Intel and HP having operations there
Culture
The culture of Costa Rica is influenced by:
- Its indigenous heritage
- Spanish colonial traditions
- A strong focus on conservation and environmentalism, often referred to as Pura Vida philosophy
Politics
Costa Rica is known for its stable democracy:
- It has a presidential system with a strong emphasis on civil rights
- The country has no standing army, focusing instead on education, health, and social services
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