Where is the country of Guatemala located on the world map? Guatemala as one of the most mysterious and amazing countries on the world map What is Guatemala

GUATEMALA
The Republic of Guatemala, the northernmost of the Central American Republics, covers an area of ​​108,899 square kilometers. km. It borders on the north and west with Mexico, on the east with Belize, on the south and southeast on El Salvador and Honduras. In the east, Guatemala has a narrow outlet to the Caribbean Sea, where one of the main ports of the Caribbean coast in Central America is located - Puerto Barrios; The southern coast of the country is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean for 240 km.

Guatemala. The capital is Guatemala. Population - 11.8 million people (1998). Urban population - 44%, rural - 56%. Population density - 281 people per 1 sq. km. Area - 108,889 sq. km. The highest point is the Tajumulco volcano (4220 m). Main languages: Spanish (official), K'iche', Kaqchikel, Mame, Q'eqchi. The dominant religion is Catholicism. Administrative division - 22 departments. Currency: quetzal = 100 centavos. National holiday: Independence Day - September 15. National anthem: "Oh Happy Guatemala."

Guatemala is home to approx. 32% of the total population of Central America, and the capital of the country is the city of Guatemala with a population of 1.2 million people (1995 estimate), located in the mountains at an altitude of approx. 1500 m above sea level, is the largest city on the isthmus. The capital plays a leading role in all areas of the country's life. The second largest city is Quetzaltenango (88 thousand).
Natural conditions. Relief. Guatemala is divided into three physiographic regions: the lowlands of the Pacific coast, the highlands of the southern and central parts of the country, and the Petén Plain in the north. The Pacific coast is adjacent to a lowland reaching a width of approx. 50 km near the border with Mexico and gradually narrowing to the southeast, towards the border with El Salvador. The Highlands occupy more than half of the country's territory and continue to the northwest, into Mexico, and to the southeast, into the territory of El Salvador and Honduras. The surface elevation above sea level is for the most part from 1000 to 2400 m, with individual volcanic peaks over 3700 m high. Geologically, this area corresponds to outcrops of ancient crystalline rocks, forming latitudinal ranges with sharp ridges and steep slopes; they are dissected by deeply incised river valleys opening east towards the Caribbean Sea. In the southwest of the highlands, separating it from the coastal lowlands, rises the Sierra Madre ridge, on the ancient base of which numerous cones of young volcanoes are superimposed, including the highest mountain in Central America - the Tajumulco volcano (4217 m). The crystalline rocks here are covered by a thick cover of lavas and volcanic ash. Among the volcanoes there are irregularly shaped depressions, in one of which there is a lake. Atitlan. From the southwest-facing slope of the highland, short, stormy rivers flow into the Pacific Ocean, but most of the mountainous region is drained by rivers belonging to the Caribbean Sea: Sarstun and Motagua, as well as tributaries of the Polochik River, which flows into Lake. Izabal, connected by a wide navigable channel to the Amatica Bay of the Caribbean Sea. In the middle and lower reaches, the valleys of these rivers have a wide and flat, well-moistened bottom, limited by long and narrow spurs of the mountains. The north of Guatemala is occupied by the Petén Plain (absolute heights 150-210 m), composed of limestone. Its surface is dotted with typically karst forms - rounded funnels and sinkholes. Many rivers are lost in these sinkholes, continuing their path to the sea in underground cavities and caves. The entire Peten plain is covered with dense tropical forest.
Climate and natural vegetation. The climate of Guatemala is tropical, with its characteristics depending on the altitude of the area and its accessibility to the humid trade winds blowing inland from the Caribbean Sea. The coastal lowlands have the hottest and most humid climate, with average daily temperatures of approx. 27° C. The heaviest precipitation falls on the Caribbean coast and the mountain slopes facing it, as well as on the Petén plain (1500-2500 mm per year). The lowlands and lower parts of the slopes are covered with tall tropical rain forest, with closed crowns and almost no undergrowth; in some places it is interrupted by areas of savanna, and on the exceptionally porous carbonate soils of the plain, xerophytic woodlands are developed in places. Palm trees grow in abundance along the Caribbean coast. On the low-lying Pacific coast, precipitation is brought mainly by the summer southwest monsoons. Short but heavy rainfall occurs from May to October, and winters here are dry. This precipitation regime determines the predominance of grass savannas with ribbon forests along river beds. Dense semi-deciduous forests grow in the foothills. Temperatures in the mountains are lower than in the lowlands, and seasonal variations are insignificant. For example, in Guatemala, the average July temperature is 19° C, and the average December temperature is 16° C. Seasonal differences are determined not so much by temperature fluctuations as by the precipitation regime, the bulk of which falls from May to October. For example, in the capital, where the annual amount is 1320 mm, 1240 mm falls in the summer. Oak forests grow in the middle mountain zone; above 2100 m they give way to pine trees, and from 3000 m, where low temperatures prevent tree growth, alpine meadows begin. The forests of Guatemala contain many valuable tree species, including zedrel, dalbergia (rosewood), cypress, acaju (mahogany) and logwood, which produces a valuable dye. There is an abundance of lianas, epiphytes, orchids and other plants with bright decorative flowers, including trees and shrubs.
Animal world. In the sparsely populated lowlands there are deer, wild pig, iguanas and snakes, including poisonous ones. In the mountains, most large animals were exterminated for meat; a few squirrels and other rodents, kinkajous, foxes and coyotes survived. The avifauna is rich and diverse. Approx. are described here. 2000 species of birds, of which approx. 200 migratory species originating from North America. Many tropical birds with colorful plumage, including various species of parrots. The Guatemalans are especially fond of the quetzal, a rare bird with bright green feathers and a long tail. The quetzal became a national symbol; he is depicted on the national emblem and flag of the country, and the monetary unit of Guatemala is named after him.
Population and society. Demographics and ethnic composition. In the second half of the 20th century. Guatemala is distinguished by high natural population growth - approx. 3% per year. In the 1990s, the population growth rate began to decline slightly and in 1998 reached 2.7%. In the second half of the 1990s, about three-fifths of the population lived in rural areas. The country's capital, Guatemala, has been the largest urban center in Central America since its independence. Its population, which in 1995 was approx. 1.2 million people, has been growing rapidly in recent decades and is expected to reach 1.4 million people by 2000 (with suburbs - more than 2 million). Other cities worth mentioning are Quetzaltenango, a coffee production center located in the western highlands; Puerto Barrios, the country's main port on the Caribbean Sea; Escuintla, on the lowlands facing the Pacific Ocean, another city in the mountains, Mazatenango; finally, the old capital of the country is Antigua Guatemala (or Antigua), where the lifestyle is still largely reminiscent of the colonial one. Each of these cities is the capital of a department, and all of them, except the city of Puerto Barrios, have existed since Spanish colonial rule. Puerto Barrios gained great importance with the growth of coffee and banana exports; Its development was especially facilitated by the activities of the United Fruit Company. Another port, Santo Tomas de Castilla, was built in recent decades near Puerto Barrios on the site of an old port that was used during the colonial era; The government is paying great attention to the development of this port as an alternative to the existing port of Puerto Barrios. The most densely populated areas are the intermontane basins, especially around the cities of Guatemala, Quetzaltenango, Antigua Guatemala, as well as the Caribbean coast in the area of ​​Puerto Barrios and some parts of the Pacific coast. The lowest population density is observed in the north of the country, in the Petén department. The total population of Guatemala in 1998 was estimated at 11.8 million people, and by 2000 it will exceed 12.6 million. More than half are Indians, descendants of the ancient Mayans, the rest are mainly Spanish-speaking mestizos - Ladinos, descendants of Spaniards and Indians. The proportion of the white population, mainly of Spanish origin, is small, with the exception of the ruling classes. Blacks live along the Caribbean coast. Ladinos play a major role in the life of the country, both in cities and in the countryside. Spanish customs predominate among them, although somewhat modified under the influence of the Indians. Outside the cities, the bulk of Ladinos are concentrated in the east of the country and on the Pacific coast. Most Indians live in the southwest of the country and in the central mountainous region. They still retain many Mayan customs, although their way of life is gradually changing. Roads connect their once completely isolated settlements with the outside world; young people are drafted into the army, and many Indian families are forced to leave their homes in search of work. Although an increasing number of Indians speak Spanish, 24 different Mayan Indian languages ​​are still used in the country, mainly Quiché, Q'eqchi' and Mame. Mountain Indians typically practice semi-subsistence farming on privately or communally owned farms. Most holdings are too small to support a family, and some Indians additionally rent land or work as sharecroppers on large farms. Even more often they are hired on plantations along the Pacific coast. More than half a million Indians descend from the mountains to the coast every year, where they work on plantations, harvesting coffee, cotton or sugar cane.
Religion. The vast majority of Guatemalans are Catholic, at least nominally, but the influence of Protestant missionaries grew markedly in the years after World War II. Baptist, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Mormon churches are firmly established in the country, but the most influential are evangelical groups of Protestant fundamentalists, whose leaders are mostly Indian or Ladino. The total number of Protestants is approx. 30% of the country's population. Most of them belong to the poorest strata, but gradually Protestants appear in the middle and upper classes; Two presidents were Protestants - Efrain Rios Montt and Jorge Serrano. Evangelicals mostly stay out of politics or support conservative political groups. Catholic missionaries are also very active; many of them adhere to progressive views, sharing the principles of so-called “liberation theology”. Ancient religious beliefs, often combined with Christianity, are still strong in Indian communities.
Labor movement. The country's first labor legislation was adopted in the period 1944-1954, along with other democratic changes. These laws established a minimum wage, an 8-hour workday, and provided for social security measures. After the military coup of 1954, these reforms were canceled and the activities of trade unions were suppressed. New laws passed in 1961 prohibited the formation of peasant unions and outlawed strikes. After 1985, trade unions again began to openly participate in the life of the country. Most of the country's trade union organizations are united in the National Trade Union Front. The National Confederation of Trade Unions has 24 thousand members. The coalition of trade unions and peasant organizations - the Union of People's Action - is showing great activity. See below
GUATEMALA. POLITICAL SYSTEM
GUATEMALA. ECONOMY
GUATEMALA. CULTURE
GUATEMALA. STORY
LITERATURE

Diaz Rossotto H. The nature of the Guatemalan revolution. M., 1962 History of Latin America, vol. 1. M., 1991; vol. 2. M., 1993 Guatemala in the modern world. - Latin America, 1997, No. 7

Collier's Encyclopedia. - Open Society. 2000 .

Synonyms:

See what "GUATEMALA" is in other dictionaries:

1) Republic of Guatemala, state in the Center. America. Named after the city of Guatemala. The name is derived from Aztec. Guauhtemallan is a place covered with forest. 2) the capital of the Republic of Guatemala. The city was founded in 1524 under the name Santiago (Saint Iago).... ... Geographical encyclopedia

GUATEMALA- the capital and largest city of Guatemala is located on a plateau in the southern part of the country. The city's population is about 946,000 inhabitants. The capital of the country was founded in 1524 under the name Santiago. Later the city was renamed. Guatemala main... ... Cities and countries

I Republic of Guatemala (República de Guatemala), a state in Central America. 108.9 thousand km2. Population 10.9 million people (1996), mostly Guatemalans (Spanish Indian mestizos) and Indians. Urban population 35% (1994). Official language … … encyclopedic Dictionary

- (Republic of Guatemala), a state in Central America, washed by the Pacific Ocean. Area 108.9 thousand km2. Population 9.4 million people, Guatemalans (mostly Spanish Indian mestizos and various Indian peoples). The official language is Spanish.... ... Modern encyclopedia

Republic of Guatemala (Republica de Guatemala), a state in the Center. America. 108.9 thousand km². population 9.7 million people (1988), mostly Guatemalans (Spanish Indian mestizos) and Indians. Urban population 38.4% (1993). Official language… … Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

Guatemala- GUATEMALA, Republic of Center. America; area 109.860 sq. ver.; borders on the village. h. and s. with Mexico, on the. with Brit. Honduras and the Gulf of Honduras, to the south. V. and Yu. with the republics of Honduras and S. El Salvador, in the south. h. with Quiet. ocean. Shore. line... Military encyclopedia

- (Guatemala), Republic of Guatemala, a state in Central America. On the territory of Guatemala in the III-IX centuries. Mayan art was experiencing its dawn. In its main centers Kaminalguyu, Quirigua, Tikal, temples were built on pyramidal or... ... Art encyclopedia

La Nueva (Guatemala); otherwise Sant Iago de Guatemala is the capital of the Republic of Guatemala, at an altitude of 4961 m. Its houses are one-story, as earthquakes are frequent here. Former palace of the viceroys; 60 rich churches, university, theater, bullring,... ... Encyclopedia of Brockhaus and Efron

GUATEMALA (Guatemala), Republic of Guatemala (Republica de Guatemala).

General information

Guatemala is a country in Central America. It borders on the west and north with Mexico, on the northeast with Belize, on the southeast on Honduras and El Salvador. In the east it is washed by the Caribbean Sea, in the south and southwest by the Pacific Ocean. Area 108.9 thousand km2. Population 12.7 million (2006), the largest country in Central America by population. The capital is Guatemala City. The official language is Spanish. The monetary unit is the quetzal. Administrative division: 22 departments (table).

Guatemala is a member of the UN (1945), IMF (1945), IBRD (1945), OAS (1948), Organization of Central American States (1951), Central American Common Market (1960), WTO (1995).

N. S. Ivanov.

Political system

Guatemala is a unitary state. The Constitution was adopted on May 31, 1985. The form of government is a presidential republic.

The head of state and government is the president. The President is elected by the population for a term of 4 years (without the right of re-election). At the same time, a vice president is elected.

The highest legislative body is the unicameral Congress of the Republic, consisting of 113 deputies elected for 4 years. Executive power is exercised by the government headed by the president.

Guatemala has a multi-party system. Among the leading political parties are the National Progress Party and the Guatemalan Republican Front.

Nature

Relief. Guatemala has predominantly mountainous terrain. In the central part of the country there is a vast folded-block highland, fragmented and dissected by deep tectonic depressions (Motagua, Polochik, etc.) into high and mid-mountain massifs and ridges of predominantly sublatitudinal extent (Sierra de los Cuchumatanes, altitude up to 4093 m; Sierra de -las Minas, height up to 3015 m, etc.). Adjacent to the folded-block highland from the southwest is the Sierra Madre volcanic highland with numerous cones of active and potentially active volcanoes, including Tajumulco (height up to 4220 m - the highest point of Guatemala and Central America), Acatenango (3976 m), Santa Maria (3789 m), etc. Along the northern periphery of the folded-block highlands stretch the karst lowlands of Alta Verapaz, descending to the low (height 150-250 m) slightly hilly Petén plateau, which occupies the northern part of Guatemala. Karst landforms (karrs, underground rivers, caves, etc.) are widespread on the plateau. In the south of Guatemala, a submontane alluvial lowland plain 40-60 km wide stretches along the leveled lagoonal shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Geological structure and minerals. Guatemala is located within the Central American Isthmus of the tectonic Antilles-Caribbean region. From the east, the western end of the Paleozoic Chortis block, composed of dislocated metamorphic rocks intruded by pre-Permian, Cretaceous and Paleogene granites, enters the territory of the country (into the area of ​​folded blocky highlands). The Chortis block in the northern and central part is crossed by the Polochik-Matagua shear-fault zone, marked by Early Cenozoic ophiolites and tectonic depressions (grabens) filled with Oligocene-Quaternary lake and river sediments. The Alta Verapaz lowlands are composed of deformed Jurassic-Cretaceous red continental and carbonate sediments. Within the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes massif, Upper Paleozoic terrigenous and clastic rocks emerge from beneath Mesozoic sediments. In the north of Guatemala (in the northern part of the Peten plateau), Paleocene-Eocene marine terrigenous and Eocene lagoonal-continental (gypsum, marls) deposits of the marginal part of the young platform are widespread. In the south, the Central American volcanic belt, composed of Neogene-Quaternary basaltic, andesitic and dacite lavas and tuffs, stretches across the territory of Guatemala. There are about 20 Holocene (active and potentially active) volcanoes. The most active of them are Fuego, Santa Maria and Pacaya. The southwestern regions are characterized by high seismicity (destructive earthquakes in 1773, 1902, 1917, 1976 - more than 23 thousand deaths); Volcanic danger remains.

The most important minerals are oil and laterite nickel ores. There are small deposits of polymetallic ores, manganese, chromium, gold, and antimony. There are significant reserves of kaolin, diatomite, marble, asbestos, and sulfur.

Climate. Guatemala is located within the tropical climate zone. Average monthly temperatures, which are 23-28°C within the plains and intermountain depressions, drop to 13-20°C in the lowlands and mid-mountains and to 8-13°C in the highlands. Annual precipitation is 2000-3000 mm on the Caribbean coast and the northeastern slopes of the mountains (in some places up to 3500 mm), 1200-2000 mm on the southwestern slopes of the Sierra Madre and on the Peten plateau, 800-1200 mm on the Pacific coast , about 500 mm in closed intermountain depressions (Motagua). The northeastern slopes of the mountains of the Caribbean coast and the Peten plateau are characterized by uniform moisture throughout the year with a small summer-autumn maximum precipitation; on the southwestern slopes of the Sierra Madre and the Pacific coast there are clearly defined wet (May - October) and dry seasons.

Inland waters. Over 3/4 of the territory belongs to the Atlantic Ocean basin: most of the mountainous regions of Guatemala are drained by rivers of the Caribbean Sea basin (Motagua, Polochik, etc.), the northwestern and western parts of Guatemala are drained by rivers of the Gulf of Mexico basin, including the Usumacinta. Short, wild rivers flow from the southwestern slope of the Sierra Madre and flow into the Pacific Ocean. From the Peten plateau, surface flow is insignificant: watercourses are lost in karst sinkholes and flow in underground cavities and caves. There are many natural lakes in Guatemala, including the largest Lake Izabal (about 800 km 2), connected by the wide navigable Rio Dulce channel with Amatica Bay in the Gulf of Honduras in the Caribbean Sea, the picturesque volcanic lakes Atitlan, Amatitlan and others in the Sierra Madre and Peten mountains -Itza and Tigre on the Peten plateau, etc. Guatemala’s annually renewable water resources amount to 111 km 3, water availability - 9.3 thousand m 3 / person. in year. No more than 1% of water resources are used annually for economic purposes (of which 74% is spent for agricultural needs, 9% for municipal water supply, 17% is consumed by industrial enterprises).

Soils, flora and fauna. The soil cover is dominated by red-yellow and red ferrallitic soils and their mountain varieties; the most fertile are volcanic soils formed in the Sierra Madre and slitozems developed on the piedmont plain and in the northern part of the Petén plateau. The flora and fauna of Guatemala are characterized by a very high diversity and level of endemism (on average 13%). Forests occupy about 83% of the territory. The Petén plateau, the Caribbean coast and the lower parts of the mountain slopes are dominated by moist and variable-humid tropical forests, interrupted in places by predominantly secondary savannas and xerophytic woodlands. Tropical forests are rich in valuable tree species (sviteniya, zedrela, rosewood, sapodilla, guarea, breadnut, etc.). In the middle mountains with an altitude of 1100-2000 m (the so-called fog belt), broad-leaved forests of oaks, avocados, liquidambar, etc. with tree ferns, epiphytes, lianas are common, above 2700 m they are replaced by coniferous forests of various types of pines, fir with the participation of yew. The highest peaks are occupied by mountain meadows (the floristic composition is similar to the South American páramos). The thorny bush thickets in the Motagua Depression, grass savannas and xerophytic woodlands on the plains along the Pacific coast have been almost completely replaced by agricultural land. High rates of deforestation (1.7% per year) lead to increased soil erosion and degradation and pose a threat to the decline in the biological diversity of the country's ecosystems.

There are 150 species of mammals found in Guatemala. Within the sparsely populated plains (Caribbean coast, Peten plateau) live anteaters (three-toed, four-toed and dwarf), nine-banded armadillo, Central American tapir, deer (Virginian, great mazama), peccaries, prehensile-tailed monkeys; Among the predators are jaguar, puma. In the mountains, large mammals have mostly been exterminated; various species of small rodents, bats, and raccoons (kinkajou, coati, etc.) have survived. The avifauna of Guatemala is rich, numbering 670 species of birds. Many tropical birds with bright plumage, including the quetzal (quetzal) - the national symbol of Guatemala. A wide variety of reptiles, including the Central American crocodile, numerous snakes (rattlers, coral adders, etc.).

Guatemala has 73 protected natural areas with a total area of ​​2.5 million hectares, including the Sierra de las Minas and Maya biosphere reserves (within its borders the Tikal National Park, included in the World Heritage List), is located.

Lit.: Nash D. L. Flora of Guatemala. Chi., 1976; Biodiversity in Guatemala: biological diversity and tropical forest assessment. Wash., 1988; Atlas temâtico de la Repûblica de Guatemala. Guatemala, 2002.

N.V. Kopa-Ovdienko.

Population

58.6% of the population of Guatemala are Spanish-speaking Guatemalans, including 57.8% mestizos (Ladinos), 0.8% “whites” (Creoles). The Indians mainly belong to the Maya group (35.9%): Quiche (14.2%), Mame (5.5%), Kaqchikel (4.8%), Qeqchi (3.9%), Pocom (1. 4%), Kankhobali (1.2%), Hakalteki (1.1%), Tsutuhili (0.9%), Ishili (0.7%), Chukhs (0.5%), Chortti (0.4% ) and etc.; a special group of the mestizo population is the Garifona (0.2%). Among the non-aboriginal population living in Guatemala are Americans (2.8%), West Indian blacks (2.1%), Chinese (0.2%), immigrants from Great Britain (0.1%), etc.

The population of Guatemala is constantly growing (8,908 thousand people in 1990; 11,225 thousand people in 2000; 12,389 thousand people in 2004). Population growth (about 2.5% per year in 2000-05; 2.3% in 2006 - one of the highest rates in the region) is the result of natural dynamics. The birth rate (29.9 per 1000 inhabitants in 2006) significantly exceeds the death rate (5.2 per 1000 inhabitants); The fertility rate is 3.8 children per woman. Infant mortality is 30.9 per 1000 live births. In the age structure of the population, the share of children (under 14 years old) is 41.1% (one of the highest in the region), the population of working age (15-65 years old) is 55.5%, the elderly (over 65 years old) is 3 ,4%. There are 99 men for every 100 women. The average age of the population is 18.9 years. Average life expectancy is 64.9 years (men - 67.6, women - 71.2 years).

Balance of migration -1.94 per 1000 inhabitants; The main reasons for the outflow of the population are the low standard of living and the unstable political situation. The average population density is 117 people/km 2 . The most densely populated areas are the intermountain basins, especially around the cities of Guatemala and Quetzaltenango, as well as the Caribbean coast in the region of Puerto Barrios. The lowest population density (about 10 people/km 2) is observed in the north of the country, in the department of El Petén. Urban population - 39.9% (2005); In small towns, part of the population is engaged in agricultural work in the suburbs. Largest cities (thousands of people, 2006): Guatemala (1010; with the nearby cities of Misco, Villa Nueva and others, it forms the largest agglomeration in Central America with a population of over 2.9 million people), Quetzaltenango (136.3), Escuintla (109 ,4).

Economically active population - 4458 thousand people (2003); 37.2% of workers are employed in agriculture, forestry and fishing, 22% in industry, 40.8% in the service sector. Unemployment rate - 7.5% (2003). About 1/2 of the population lives in subsistence farming; about 3/4 of the population has incomes below the official poverty level (2005).

N. S. Ivanov.

Religion

According to data from 2004-05, about 80% of the population of Guatemala are Catholics, more than 15% are Protestants of various denominations (2004-05), a small part (about 1.5%) adheres to Judaism, Hinduism and other religions. Guatemala is characterized by the preservation of local traditions and religious syncretism.

Historical sketch

The earliest monuments of human activity on the territory of Guatemala (San Rafael, near Guatemala City; 10-9th millennium BC) include Clovis type points. The most ancient monuments of mountainous Guatemala are short-term cave and open sites of the 8-7th millennium BC; tools - scrapers, choppers, etc.

Guatemala was part of the formation zone of an ancient Mesoamerican cultural tradition, inextricably linked with the cultivation of corn in combination with pumpkin and beans (Ocos culture on the northwest coast, etc.). In the mountainous regions of Guatemala in the 4th millennium, one of the first varieties of corn was developed - “nal-tel”, which soon spread throughout Mesoamerica (N. I. Vavilov was the first to express the hypothesis about the focus of the domestication of corn in mountainous Guatemala). In the 2nd to 1st millennia BC (Preclassic period), highland and lowland Guatemala was densely populated by numerous culturally similar groups of farmers.

The formation of the Mayan civilization is associated with Guatemala (the territory of Guatemala covers most of its central and southern regions). In the 6-4 centuries BC, the first urban centers with monumental architecture appeared in the central region (Nakbe, El Mirador, Tikal, etc.). Their layout had a look characteristic of later Mayan cities: a combination of independent, astronomically oriented acropolises adapted to the relief, representing a rectangular area surrounded by temple and palace buildings raised on platforms. On the Pacific coast, the cultures of El Baul, Abah-Takalik and others, dating between 300 BC and 300 AD, are distinguished. The Mayan culture reached its peak during the classical period (300-900 AD). Mayan writing was developed in Guatemala. The monuments of mountainous Guatemala differ from those of the lowlands in funeral rites, architectural style and ceramics. In 1523, Spanish conquistadors under the command of P. de Alvarado began the conquest of Central America. The Captaincy General of Guatemala was created on its territory (1527). Colonial Central America, whose population at the time of independence was 1,227 thousand, represented the deep economic and political periphery of the Spanish empire. Feudal forms of land tenure (encomienda) and labor contracting (habitaciones, repartimiento) dominated here. The social structure of society was hierarchical. All senior administrative posts were occupied by royal officials appointed by the Supreme Council for Indian Affairs, economic power was in the hands of a small (less than 5% of the population) Creole elite, and the bulk of the Ladino mestizos (10-12%) and Indians (about 80%) were engaged in agricultural and handicraft labor and did not have any political rights.

In September 1821, under the influence of the ideas of the European Enlightenment and the national liberation movement in South America and Mexico, patriotic circles, led by P. Molina and J. M. Delgado, declared the independence of the Central American colonies of Spain. In 1823 (after their short stay as part of the Mexican Empire of A. de Iturbide), the federation of the United Province of Central America was created, in which Guatemala, as the most populated (over 600 thousand inhabitants) and economically strong part, played a key role. In 1824, a federal constitution was adopted that abolished slavery and feudal privileges.

For 12 years, supporters of liberal reforms and the federal structure of Central America, under the leadership of F. Morazan and M. Galvez, waged a stubborn struggle against conservatives (large landowners, colonial aristocracy, army elite, church) to preserve the territorial unity of the federation. Ignoring the interests of the Indians on the part of the leaders of the liberal movement led to their isolation and, ultimately, to political and military defeat. Using the movement of the Indian masses under the leadership of J. R. Carrera, opponents of the unification of Central America achieved in 1839 the withdrawal of Guatemala from the federation and established a reactionary regime based on the alliance of the latifundists, the army and the church. The conservative governments of Carrera, who was declared president for life, and his successor V. Serna Sandoval, slowed down economic reforms and pursued an anti-national foreign policy, ceding, in particular, the rights to Belize to Great Britain. They were in power until 1871, when a new liberal revolution began in Guatemala, led by representatives of the so-called coffee bourgeoisie - M. García Granados Zavala and J. R. Barrios.

The government of H.R. Barrios (1873-1885) took steps to modernize the economy (railway construction, development of telegraph communications, electrification), political and military institutions, and the education system. A new constitution was proclaimed, church was separated from the state, restrictions on the use of child labor were introduced, and new civil and criminal codes were adopted. However, the attempt to reunite the Central American states ended in failure and the death of H.R. Barrios.

With the establishment of the dictatorial regime of M. J. Estrada Cabrera in 1898, foreign, primarily North American, capital began to actively penetrate Guatemala, virtually completely subordinating its national economy (production of coffee, bananas and cotton). The American United Fruit Company in the 1st third of the 20th century became the largest land owner in Guatemala and practically controlled its domestic and foreign policy. The military played an increasingly important role in Guatemala. In 1921-30, during the presidency of generals J. M. Orellana Pinto and then S. Chacon Gonzalez, the first trade unions arose, steps were taken to stabilize the national monetary system, develop the health care system and school education.

In 1931, in the context of the global economic crisis and the exacerbation of internal social and economic problems, the military dictatorship of General J. Ubico was established in Guatemala. The so-called vagrancy law was adopted, which actually enslaved the Indian population, and Law No. 816, which gave the latifundists the right to dispose of the property and lives of peasant farm laborers and tenants. Widespread political repression began in the country, trade unions were dissolved and opposition political organizations were banned.

In June 1944, as a result of mass protests by students, workers and representatives of the middle classes, the dictatorial regime of J. Ubico was overthrown (see Guatemalan Revolution of 1944-54). In 1945, the famous public figure J. H. Arevalo became president, and in 1951, J. Arbenz Guzman. Democratic reforms were carried out in Guatemala. In June 1954, as a result of a coup d'etat, Arbenz Guzman was removed from power. Colonel C. Castillo Armas became president, who reversed the reforms carried out by the democratic government. After his assassination in July 1957, the far-right government of General M. Hidigoras Fuentes came to power. Political repression against democratic forces has intensified in the country.

At the end of 1960, a group of young officers - supporters of J. Arbenz Guzmán organized an armed uprising under the slogan of restoring democracy and carrying out social and economic reforms. The country actually began a civil war that lasted almost 36 years. Three leading revolutionary organizations - the Rebel Armed Forces, the Guerrilla Army of the Poor and the Organization of the Armed People - united in 1982 under the National Revolutionary Unity Front of Guatemala.

With the exception of the civilian government of J. S. Mendez Montenegro (1966-70), which tried to carry out limited social and economic reforms on the basis of the new Constitution adopted in 1965, military dictators, Generals K, were in power in Guatemala until the mid-1980s M. Arana Osorio (1970-74), C. E. Laugerud García (1974-78), F. R. Lucas García (1978-82), J. E. Rios Montt (1982-83) and O. U Mejia Victores (1983-1986). During these years, the 1965 Constitution was suspended, the National Congress was dissolved, the activities of leading political parties were banned, mass arrests and murders of opponents of the regime were carried out, and large-scale removal of Indians from public lands was carried out.

Only after winning the elections and taking office as president of the civilian politician, member of the Christian Democratic Party M. V. Cerezo Arevalo (January 1986), a new Constitution was introduced in Guatemala, and the slow process of finding ways to achieve internal peace began. Attempts were made to limit the role of the armed forces in the political life of the country and begin the negotiation process with the rebels. In 1987, an agreement between five Central American states (the Esquipulas Pact) was signed in Guatemala, which began the process of peaceful resolution and ending the civil war not only in Guatemala, but also in Nicaragua and El Salvador.

Despite two attempts by far-right forces to carry out military coups, power in Guatemala was legally transferred to President J. A. Serrano Elias in 1991. During his reign, widespread violations of civil rights continued in Guatemala. In 1992 and 1993, the government tried unsuccessfully to negotiate with representatives of the leftist rebels. In the spring of 1993, mass demonstrations took place in Guatemala demanding changes to the government's neoliberal policies. Serrano Elias's attempt to launch a campaign against corruption in government, Congress and the military, pursuing populist goals, led to his forced removal from power by the military.

In June 1993, Congress approved R. de Leon Carpio, a member of the Union National Center and Commissioner for Civil Rights in Guatemala, as interim president of the country. The term of office of the President and Congress was reduced from 5 to 4 years, and a number of economic reforms were carried out. For the first time in the history of Guatemala, a representative of the Mayan Indians, S. Tay Coyoy, became the Minister of Education. In 1994, agreements were signed with the leaders of rebel organizations on the observance of civil rights, on the return of forcibly resettled Indians to their places of permanent residence, and in 1995 - an agreement on the civil rights of Indians. In September 1995, a temporary ceasefire was announced.

In November 1995, general elections were held in Guatemala. A representative of the right-wing Party of National Progress, A. Arsu Yrigoyen, was elected president (took office in January 1996). 12/29/1996, in the presence of UN Secretary General B. Boutros-Ghali, the Guatemalan government signed a peace treaty with the rebels, ending the civil war in Guatemala, during which over 200 thousand people died or went missing, and 1.5 million people became refugees (more than 80% of all victims are representatives of the Indian population, 93% of all acts of violence were committed by the army and right-wing paramilitary groups). The agreement began to be implemented in early 1997. More than 3 thousand partisans laid down their arms, and by September 1998 the army was reduced by a third (from 47 thousand to 31.5 thousand people). However, political murders and repressions in Guatemala continued: in the spring of 1998, the Archbishop of the capital of Guatemala, J. H. Condera, was killed, and in May 1999, a prominent figure in the democratic forces, R. Gonzalez, was shot.

In May 1999, important changes were made to the country's Constitution, which included clauses on improving the legal status of the Indian population, limiting the power of the military and carrying out judicial reform. In November 1999, the first general elections since the end of the civil war took place. The right-wing Guatemalan Republican Front party, led by J. E. Rios Montt, achieved success. The party's candidate, A. A. Portillo Cabrera, who promised to defend human rights, fight poverty and respect peace agreements, was elected president of the country in December 1999. In January 2004, he was replaced in this post by a representative of the center-right coalition Great National Alliance, former mayor of the capital O. H. R. Berger Perdomo. He continued the demilitarization of the country (in May - June 2004, over 10 thousand military personnel were dismissed from the army). In July 2004, the government announced it would begin paying compensation to victims of political violence and terror. In December 2004, the UN Peace Observatory for Guatemala announced the end of its mission and left the country.

Lit.: Gulyaev V.I. The most ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica. M., 1972; Leonov N. S. Essays on the new and recent history of Central America. M., 1975; History of Latin America. Pre-Columbian era - 70s of the 19th century. M., 1991; History of Latin America. 70s of the XIX century. - 1918 M., 1993; Ershova G. G. Ancient America: flight in time and space. Mesoamerica. M., 2002; History of Latin America. Second half of the 20th century M., 2004.

G. G. Ershova (archaeology); A. I. Kubyshkin.

Farm

The basis of Guatemala's economy is agriculture, which specializes in the production of tropical crops (coffee, sugar cane, bananas, cardamom, etc.). In terms of GDP - 62.97 billion US dollars (at purchasing power parity; 5,200 dollars per capita in 2005) - Guatemala surpasses other Central American countries. Real GDP growth 3.1% (2005). Human Development Index 0.663 (2003; 117th among 177 countries in the world). Economic policy is aimed at achieving macroeconomic stabilization, restructuring the financial sector, and overcoming poverty. In 1997-99, to modernize the economy, the leading public sector enterprises were privatized: the largest energy companies Empresa Electrica de Guatemala (EEGSA) and Instituto Nacional de Electrificacion (INDE), a large part of the transport infrastructure, as well as telephone communications and television and etc.

In the structure of GDP, the share of the service sector is growing at the fastest pace (58.1% in 2005), agriculture, forestry and fishing account for 22.8%, industry - 19.1%. Foreign tourism is developing (the second most important source of foreign exchange earnings after income from coffee exports), and new hotels are being actively built. Guatemala was visited by 1,182 thousand people in 2004 (826 thousand people in 2000; 884.2 thousand people in 2002), tourism income amounted to $770 million ($535 million in 2000; $612.2 million in 2002). The main types of tourism: educational, medical and recreational, ethnographic, environmental. Main tourist sites: the remains and ruins of the ancient Mayan cities of Tikal (in the north of the country, on the Peten plateau), Kaminalhuyu (now within the city of Guatemala), Quirigua (in the east of Guatemala), Piedras Negras, Peteshbatun (in the northwest), Coban (near the city - Lanquin cave with an extensive network of underground passages), Quetzaltenango, Chichicastenango, Santa Cruz del Quiche (nearby are the ruins of the former capital of the Quiche - Utatlan), as well as the Totonicapan Valley (area inhabited by Mayan Indians; sulfur springs; handicraft production of textiles), a winter resort with mineral springs in Escuintla, beaches near San Jose and Puerto Barrios. The main centers of tourism are Guatemala and Antigua Guatemala.

Industry. Guatemala is a country with underdeveloped industry. Mining contributes about 0.6% of GDP (2005). Oil production is of greatest importance. Despite significant reserves, production is low (about 1.1 million tons per year, mainly in the south of the El Petén department; field development is controlled by the Canadian company Basic Oil). Guatemala exports some of its oil, but oil imports (from Mexico and Venezuela) exceed exports. Antimony ores (about 0.8 million tons per year), gold, sulfur are mined; nickel ores (since 1981, El Estor deposit), copper, zinc, lead, and chromium are mined in small quantities. Oil refineries operate near the cities of Puerto Barrios (Matias de Galvez) and Escuintla (total capacity of about 1 million tons). Electricity production 6.9 billion kWh (2003), of which about 50% comes from thermal power plants (mostly small, fuel oil-fired), about 45% from hydroelectric power plants (92% in 1990; the largest hydroelectric power station is on the Chikhoi River, capacity 300 MW ). Electricity consumption is low (about 490 kWh per capita), and there are interruptions in the supply of electricity; in a number of areas, up to 85% of residents do not have the opportunity to use electricity.

One of the leading branches of the manufacturing industry is food. A significant part of the enterprises are small and medium-sized artisanal types, engaged in the processing of local agricultural raw materials and serving the domestic market. Export products are produced by factories for processing coffee, producing sugar, rum, and tobacco products. The textile industry has been developing since the 1980s. Factories owned by American firms produce knitted and apparel products, mainly for subsequent export to the United States (production is concentrated mainly in free trade zones in the port of Santo Tomas de Castilla and near Guatemala City). There are also steel rolling (production of galvanized steel) and tire factories, enterprises for the assembly of consumer electronics (based on imported components, including South Korean), production of chemical products, perfumery, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products, paper, cement, etc. The main industrial centers are - Guatemala and Quetzaltenango. In the western part of Guatemala, traditional Indian occupations have been preserved - handicraft production of clothing, pottery, and wooden jewelry.

Agriculture. The combination of large plantations of tropical crops (owned mainly by foreign companies and producing export products) with small peasant farms supplying products for domestic consumption remains typical. Latifundists and foreign companies (0.2% of all farms) own about 3/4 of the cultivated land, owners of small plots (only about 9/10 of the total number of farms) own about 15% of the land.

The main export crop is coffee (collection of 222 thousand tons of green beans in 2004). Over 80% of the harvest comes from large plantations; The main production areas are the Pacific slope of the highlands (about 80% of the harvest) and the central part of the highlands (about 15%, mainly the Alta Verapaz department). Traditionally, sugar cane (collection of 18 million tons of green mass in 2004) and bananas (about 1 million tons per year; plantations of mainly American companies Chiquita Brands International and Dole Food Co.; with a decline in demand, banana exports are also of great export importance significantly decreased; hurricanes of 1983 and 1998 caused great damage to plantations). By the beginning of the 21st century, the production of cotton, one of the most important cash crops, had sharply decreased (harvest 166 thousand tons in 1985; 3 thousand tons in 2004). Since the end of the 20th century, the production and export of cardamom has increased significantly (plantation area increased from 30 thousand hectares in the 1970s to 50 thousand hectares in 2005; collection - from 7.3 to 18 thousand tons), fresh fruits (total 1.6 million tons in 2004) and vegetables (about 600 thousand tons, including Brussels sprouts, asparagus, peppers). Flowers, essential grains (lemongrass, citronella grass for the production of essential oils), tobacco, and sesame are mainly grown for export. The main consumer crops are corn, potatoes, beans, rice; The areas they occupy are gradually being reduced due to the expansion of plantations of export crops. Harvest (thousand tons, 2004): corn - 1072, potatoes - 283, beans - 76, rice - 29.3, melons - 188, tomatoes - 187, mangoes - 187, lemons and limes - 142.9, watermelons - 126, oranges - 106, pineapples - 103, avocados - about 100. Livestock farming is extensive. The number of cattle is about 1.5 million (bred mainly in the Pacific lowlands and in the eastern part of the highlands), sheep 700 thousand, pigs 500 thousand (2005). Valuable wood species are being harvested (balsa, buckout, etc.; a total of 16.4 million m3 in 2005), as well as chicle resin (for the production of chewing gum; since the end of the 20th century, harvesting volumes have sharply decreased). On the Caribbean coast - fishing, shrimp, squid, lobster, etc. (15.6 thousand tons in 2005).

Transport. The total length of railways is about 1 thousand km (2005), most of the roads are narrow gauge. The main lines are owned by the state company Ferrocarriles de Guatemala and connect the capital with the Caribbean coast. The length of roads is about 14 thousand km (2005), most of the roads are dirt and gravel; About 4.9 thousand km have asphalt pavement. Main roads: highway along the Pacific coast and the Interoceanic Highway (San Jose - Escuintla - Guatemala - Zacapa - Puerto Barrios). The Pan-American Highway (511 km) passes through Guatemala. The importance of air transport, especially passenger air transport, is growing. There are 528 airfields in Guatemala, 9 of which have a runway over 1000 m. International airports - “La Aurora” in Guatemala City, “Mundo Maya” near the city of Flores; major airports are in Puerto Barrios, San Jose. The main air transportation is carried out by Aviateca. The total cargo turnover of Guatemala's seaports is 15.76 million tons (2005). The most important seaports: in the Caribbean Sea (freight turnover, million tons) - Puerto Barrios 1.95, located 8 km from it Santo Tomas de Castilla 4.34; on the Pacific Ocean - San Jose 2.44, Puerto Quetzal 9.49 (4 km from San Jose). The length of oil pipelines is 480 km (2004).

International trade. The value of exports is 3.9 billion dollars, imports are 7.7 billion dollars (2005). A significant part of the value of commodity exports is made up of agricultural products (about 43% are coffee, sugar, bananas, cardamom, 33% are fruits, vegetables, flowers), 14% are textile products. Major buyers (% of value, 2004): USA - 53, El Salvador - 11.4, Honduras - 7.1, Mexico - 4.1. Imports are dominated by petroleum and petroleum products, machinery and equipment, electronic components, vehicles, plastics, chemical fertilizers, food and consumer goods. Main suppliers (% of cost, 2004): USA - 34, Mexico - 8.1, South Korea - 6.8, China - 6.6, Japan - 4.4.

Lit.: Country profile. Guatemala: Annual. L., 2001-.

N. S. Ivanov.

Armed forces

The Armed Forces (AF, 2005) of Guatemala consist of the Ground Forces (27 thousand people), the Air Force (700 people), the Navy (1.5 thousand people) and paramilitary forces - the national police (19 thousand people). The supreme commander in chief is the president. Direct leadership of the Armed Forces is exercised by the Minister of Defense through the commanders of the Armed Forces. It is armed with 10 tanks, 47 armored personnel carriers, 16 infantry fighting vehicles, 196 artillery pieces, 85 mortars, 32 anti-aircraft guns, 10 combat and 25 auxiliary aircraft, 12 combat helicopters, over 30 patrol boats. The armed forces are recruited by conscription, the period of active military service is 30 months. Command personnel are trained mainly in the USA.

V.V. Gorbachev.

Healthcare. Sport

In Guatemala, per 100 thousand inhabitants there are 90 doctors, 405 paramedical personnel, 18 dentists (1999). Expenditures on health care amount to 4.8% of GDP (budget financing - 47.5%, private sector - 52.5%) (2002). Health care is decentralized, includes several sectors (public, private commercial and non-profit, traditional medicine), based on primary health care. The most common infectious diseases are bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and malaria (2003). The main causes of death in the adult population are infectious diseases, injuries and poisonings, diseases of the cardiovascular system, and cancer (2003).

The National Olympic Committee was founded and recognized by the IOC in 1947. In 1952, Guatemalan athletes participated in the Olympic Games for the first time, then since 1968. The most popular sports: boxing, wrestling, cycling, horseback riding and sailing, athletics and weightlifting, swimming, shooting, fencing, football. In 2000, Guatemala hosted the World Futsal Championship, for the opening of which the Polideportivo Sports Palace was built in the capital for 7.5 thousand spectators. In 2001, the 7th Central American Games were held (the first were also held in Guatemala in 1973); 564 Guatemalan athletes competed in 37 disciplines. In 2002, the Volcano Circuit (area 15 hectares) was built 60 km from the capital.

V. S. Nechaev (health care).

Education. Scientific and cultural institutions

Education is compulsory and free for children from 7 to 14 years of age. However, in the late 1990s, only 41% of children of the appropriate age attended school. The education system includes a 6-year (in rural areas - 3-year) primary school, a 5-year secondary school, and vocational schools. In 2003, about 85% of students attended primary school, and about 30% attended secondary school. Guatemala has one of the lowest literacy rates in Latin America - 69% (2003). Largest universities: State University of San Carlos (1676), private Catholic universities - Rafael Landivar University (1961), Del Valle University (1966), Mariano Galvez University (1966), Francisco Marroquín University (1971); Conservatory (1875), National School of Plastic Arts (1920) - all in Guatemala City. Scientific institutions: Guatemalan Academy of Languages ​​(1887), Guatemalan Academy of Geography and History (1923), Academy of Medical, Physical and Natural Sciences (1945), Academy of Mayan Languages ​​(1959), National Institute of Atomic Energy (1966), National Institute of Electrification, Institute Anthropology and History (1946), National Institute of Geography, National Observatory (1925). General management and coordination of scientific research is carried out by the National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (1967). National Library in Guatemala City (1879). Museums: colonial (1936), Santiago (1956), ancient books (1956) - all in the city of Antigua Guatemala; National Museum of Modern Art "Carlos Merida" (1934), National Museum of History and Fine Arts (1935), National Museum of Archeology and Ethnology (1948), National Museum of Natural History "Jorge A. Ibarra" (1950), Museum of Popular Arts and Crafts (1959), Museum of Guatemala History (1975) - all in Guatemala City.

Mass media

State news agency - Inforpress Centroamericana. The daily government publication is the newspaper “Diario de Centroamérica” (published since 1880; 35 thousand copies in 2005). 5 daily morning newspapers are published (circulation, 2005): “Prensa Libre” (about 25 thousand copies), “Siglo Veintiuno” (20 thousand), “El Grâfico” (30 thousand), “La Republica” (35 thousand), “ El Periodico" (20 thousand), evening newspaper "La Hora" (about 30 thousand). Weekly magazines - “Cronica” (15 thousand), “Critica” (about 10 thousand). Broadcasting since 1930. A total of 640 registered radio stations (2004); There are 22 radio stations in Guatemala City, of which 5 are state-owned, including “La Voz de Guatemala”. Television broadcasting since 1956.

26 television stations (2004), 5 national television channels (all pro-government), one of them belongs to the Ministry of Defense, 4 private channels (3, 7, 11, 13; belong to the same owner).

N. S. Ivanov.

Literature

Guatemalan literature develops mainly in Spanish. The pre-colonial period is represented by the heritage of the Maya-Kiche Indians (fragments of hymns, war songs, lyrics, myths). A mythological epic with features of the historical chronicle “Popol Vuh” (published in 1861, Russian translation - 1959) has been preserved, written in Latin around the middle of the 16th century; book of prophecies "Chilam-Balam"; folk drama "Rabinal-Achi". In the 16th century, B. Diaz del Castillo created the historical chronicle “The True History of the Conquest of New Spain and Guatemala.” Among the other most significant chroniclers of this time are F. Vázquez, F. Jimenez, as well as B. Villacañas, P. Sotomayor and M. Lobo, who participated in the creation of dictionaries and grammars of Indian languages. Poetry of the 17th century was predominantly religious in nature (P. de Lievana, J. de Mestanza, brothers F. and J. Cadena, nun J. de Maldonado y Paz). In the 18th century, journalism began to develop (P. Molina, S. Bergagno), the genres of fables (R. Garcia Goyene) and descriptive poems appeared (Rural Life in Mexico by R. Landivara, 1781). In the 1st half of the 19th century, a romantic movement emerged in Guatemalan literature; its largest representative is the poet J. Batres Montúfar. A notable phenomenon was the work of the satirist J. A. de Irizarry. Costumbrism arose in the mid-19th century (the collection of everyday life essays “Pictures of Morals” by J. Milia i Vidaurre, 1865; the story “Bird’s Eye View” by F. Laifiesta, 1879, etc.). At the end of the 19th century, naturalist tendencies intensified in Guatemalan literature: novels by R. A. Salazar, E. Martinez Sobral. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, the genre of the political novel appeared (M. Soto Hall); sharp satirical pamphlets were created by R. Arevalo Martinez. In the 1st half of the 20th century, the aesthetics of modernism was actively combined with elements of romanticism and avant-gardeism in the works of F. Herrera, S. Brañas and others. C. Wild Ospina became the founder of the genre of the Creole novel (The Estate of the Gonzaga Family, 1924, etc.) . His novels in many ways anticipated the work of M. A. Asturias, who laid the foundations of magical realism in Guatemalan literature. A notable phenomenon in literary Guatemala was the work of L. Cardos y Aragon. Social issues were reflected in the works of most writers of the 2nd half of the 20th century: O. R. Castillo, R. Obregon Morales, C. Illescas, A. Acuña, C. Matute, etc. In the 1990s, the poetry of U . Akabala, who, turning to national folklore, created poetry in the Quiché language; in the book by R. Menchu ​​Tum “My name is Rigoberta Menchu” (1983) the life of Indian tribes is shown with sympathy. Significant writers of the late 20th century - M. R. Morales, G. A. Montenegro, J. Barnoia, A. Arias, F. Goldman.

Lit.: Velä D. Literaturaguatemalteca. Guatemala, 1985. Vol. 1-2.

L. G. Khoreva.

Fine arts and architecture

Mayan art developed in Guatemala between the 3rd and 9th centuries. In Kaminalhua, Quirigua, and Tikal, temples were built on pyramidal or tower-shaped foundations, palaces, pyramids, steles with relief images of rulers, and altars were erected. Painted and figured ceramics, products made of stone, bone, shells, etc. were distinguished by a high artistic level. The traditions of Mayan culture were preserved in the folk artistic crafts of the Indians, who made fabrics decorated with transverse stripes with complex geometric patterns, shawls and belts with ornaments and human figures and animals; Women's and men's huipili shirts are decorated with embroidery with a predominant red color. All clay utensils are produced without the help of a potter's wheel; their painting often reproduces ancient motifs; Wicker vessels made from agave fibers and palm leaves are also common.

During the colonial period, cities arose in Guatemala with a rectangular network of streets, built up with squat, massive stone buildings with low walls and arcades. The houses, mostly one-story, had a courtyard (patio) with a gallery on wooden pillars, a portal set aside from the main axis of the building, and a balcony or turret (mirador) at the corner. The influence of the Arab-Spanish Mudejar style is noticeable in the architecture of residential buildings. From the 2nd half of the 18th century, the facades were decorated with baroque lush stucco and carved patterns: Palacio de los Capitanes Generales (1549-68; rebuilt in 1763-64, architect L. Diez Navarro), Town Hall (1739-43, architect D. de Porres), the University of San Carlos (1773, architect J. M. Ramirez), the monastery with the church of Nuestra Señora de la Merced (17th century, rebuilt in 1760) - all in the city of Antigua Guatemala. In the 16th-18th centuries, a distinctive school of religious sculpture developed: wooden statues were covered with metal, enamels and varnish, creating the illusion of products made of precious metals (sculptors J. de Aguirre, C. Cataño, A. de la Paz, E. Zúñiga). Polychrome ceramic statues were also made to decorate churches. Painting was also mainly of a religious nature. The works of A. de Mantufar are especially famous. Since the 19th century (mainly in the capital), buildings were built in the style of classicism, and from the mid-20th century - in the spirit of modern European architecture. The small towns of Guatemala, inhabited mainly by Indians, are built mainly with houses covered with straw and tiles, and retain an archaic appearance. In 1920, the National School of Fine Arts in Guatemala was founded, in 1963 - the Local School of Fine Arts in Quetzaltenango. In the 2nd half of the 20th century, masters emerged who turned to the life and history of the Indians (painters A. Galvez Suarez, U. Garavito, T. Fonseca, P. R. Gonzalez Chavahay, etc.). Famous sculptors are J. Urruela, R. Galeoti Torres. The works of C. Merida, D. Vázquez Castañeda and others are close to abstractionism. In the last third of the 20th century, the influence of figurative expressionism (E. Rojas, M. A. Quiroa, R. Cabrera) and primitivism was noticeable. In the architecture of the late 20th century, monumental forms of painting and sculpture were actively used (E. Resinos).

Lit.: Chinchilla Aguilar E. Historia del arte en Guatemala: Arquitectura, pintura y escultura. 2 ed. Guatemala, 1965; Arte contemporaneo / Ed. J. Alonso de Rodriguez. Guatemala, 1966; Lujän Munoz L. Sintesis de la arquitectura en Guatemala. Guatemala, 1968; Juärez J. V. Pintura viva de Guatemala. Guatemala, 1984; Mobil J.A. Historia del arte guatemalteco. 11 ed. Guatemala, 1995.

Music

The roots of the musical art of Guatemala are in the pre-Columbian Mayan culture, which experienced Spanish influence in the modern era. The appearance of the country's musical culture is largely determined by the traditional and folk music of Ladino, Mayan, Garifon and other peoples.

From the mid-16th century, European-style musical life developed, an important part of which was the music of the Catholic Church. The composer and organist E. Franco (1554-1573) worked in the cathedral of the city of Guatemala, and the music of Spanish and Dutch composers was played. Other Guatemalan musicians of the colonial period include E. de Leon Garrido, M. Pontaza, and the author of the popular villancicos V. Science (2nd half of the 18th - early 19th century). The first composer to turn to local folklore was L. F. Arias (late 19th - early 20th century). J. Castillo used Indian musical material in his instrumental compositions and operas Quiche Vinak (1925) and Nikte (1933, unfinished). R. Castillo (ballet “Kaal Baba”, 1951), who was educated in Paris and wrote music in the impressionist style, also turned to Indian themes. Important contributions to the formation of the national musical culture of Guatemala were made by: S. Ley, E. Solares (mid-20th century), J. Oreolan, J. A. Sarmientos, U. Ayestas, R. Asturias, I. de Gandarias, I. Sarmientos, P. Alvarado, A. Crespo, U. Orbaugh, D. Lehnhoff (2nd half of the 20th century).

Lit.: Lehnhoff D. Espada y pentagrama: la mùsica polifônica en la Guatemala del siglo XVI. Antigua Guatemala, 1986; Lemmon A. E. La mùsica de Guatemala en el siglo XVIII. Antigua Guatemala, 1986.

V. I. Lisova.

Movie

The first film show was held in Guatemala in 1896. The first feature film (“Agent No. 13”) was shot in 1912 by A. de la Riva. Two versions of the feature film “The Master’s Son” were staged in 1915 and 1929 (directed by A. Gerbrugger, A. Palarea). In the 1930s, documentaries were mainly made about religious holidays and sports competitions. The first sound film was “Rhythm and Dance” (1942, directors E. Fleischman, R. Aguirre, J. Gavarret). The first full-length feature film is “The Hat” (1950, directed by G. Andrew and Fleischman). In the years 1944-54, popular science films predominated. In the mid-1950s, a film studio was built in the country. Among the films: “Vacation 1953” by M. Reischenbach (1953), “Daughter of the Caribbean Islands” by S. Abularach (1955), “A Crown for My Mother” (1958), “Earthquake in Guatemala” (1976) and “Candelaria” (1977 ) R. Lanusy, “The Joy of Life” (1960) and “Sundays Pass” (1967) A. Sera. Films intended for working and student audiences were also released: “Christmas in Guatemala” (1977, directed by L. Argueta), “The Veil” (1978, directed by H. Chang). In 1968, the Association for the Development of Guatemalan Cinema was created, in 1970 - the University Cinematheque. At the turn of the 20th-21st centuries, Guatemalan cinema is one of the most dynamically developing in Central America. The search for an original film language is evidenced by the films “The Silence of Neto” by L. Argueta (1994), “Uraga” by A. Carlos and G. Escalona (2002), etc.

Guatemala is a country of absolute opposites, rich in history and blessed with a successful future. This is where turbulent volcanoes and tropical rainforests, sandy beaches and endless coffee plantations are located.

Let's take a closer look at Guatemala: where it is located, the climatic features of Guatemala, the population of the country, what nature is like here, what attractions are worth seeing in Guatemala, the form of government and much more.

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Guatemala: Wikipedia

• The area of ​​the state is almost 109 thousand square kilometers;
• The capital of Guatemala is Guatemala;
• Population – 14.7 million people;
• The official language is Spanish;
• Form of government – ​​presidential republic;
• Currency – quetzal;
• Religion – Catholicism.

Where is Guatemala located on the world map?

Guatemala on the world map is located in Central America. In the north, the state borders Mexico and Belize, Honduras and El Salvador. The country is washed by two oceans:

• Quiet;
• Atlantic.

As stated earlier, The capital of Guatemala is Guatemala City. It is the largest urban agglomeration in Central America. The capital is located along mountain ranges located on a picturesque plateau. The capital stands out for its typical attributes of Latin American cities:

• Bright buses;
• Chaotic markets.

These attributes perfectly emphasize the majesty of the buildings of the Mayan civilization. Previously, the capital of the state was the city of Antigua, but in 1776 it was severely damaged due to a powerful earthquake. Despite the fact that the capital of Guatemala was moved to a new location, Antigua occupies a significant place in the history of the North and as one of the main cities of the Mayan people. The former capital was built at the foot of volcanoes:

• Agua;
• Feugo;
• Acatenango.

These volcanoes rise majestically above colonial buildings that preserve the mystical and mysterious history of the Mayan people.

Due to its geographical location, The climate in Guatemala can be called mild, but it is also worth noting that the air temperature here depends on the altitude above the level of the World Ocean. The local seasons are distinguished by the amount of precipitation and nighttime temperature conditions. Winter lasts from May to October, and summer from November to April. February, March, April and May are the hottest months in the exotic state. The most rainfall occurs between May and October.

On the Pacific coast hot and tropical climate. The average daily temperature in May is +27 degrees. In December, the average daily air temperature reaches +23 degrees.

On the Caribbean coast During the day, the air warms up to +33 degrees throughout the year, and at night – up to +23 degrees. It is also worth noting that during the rainy season the air temperature remains the same. The largest amount of precipitation, by the way, falls in this region of the country.

The best time to visit Guatemala is the dry season, which occurs from November to May.

Nature

Two-thirds of the state's territory is located on the medium-high and high mountain ranges that belong to the Cordillera system. The Cuchumatanes and Sierra Madre mountain ranges cross Guatemala from its northern territory to its southern territory. There are 33 volcanoes in this area, some of which are currently inactive. Their height reaches 3800 meters. The highest point in Guatemala is the Tajumulco volcano. Its height is 4211 meters above sea level.

The western and southern parts of Guatemala are located on the Pacific Coastal Lowland, a flat plain pierced by many rivers carrying crystal clear waters from the mountain ranges.

The bulk of the country's population lives in the intermontane region between the Cuchumatanes and Sierra Madre ranges. The largest basin is located near Lake Atitlan. On its southeastern side is the capital of the state - Guatemala City. Banana plantations, grain crops and cocoa grow on the basins themselves. And on the adjacent mountain slopes there are pine and cedar forests.

Main attractions of Guatemala

This country must be included in the list of states that are worth visiting at least once in your life. After all, this is where the centuries-old history of the ancient Mayan tribes is combined with the promising future of their descendants. Guatemala is a beautiful place, located in Central America, which is filled with legendary buildings.

The capital of the state is architecturally eclectic. This is where modern glass skyscrapers rise above ancient stately mansions. And the wide and noisy city streets intersect with narrow streets where the local population sips strong aromatic coffee collected from the local coffee plantations.

Guatemala City is located in a picturesque area and is surrounded by volcanoes, lakes and endless plantations. All this can be seen from a bird's eye view by booking a helicopter tour. The cost of such an excursion will average $900 for five passengers.

Favorite tourist spots - cities of Tigal and Antigua. Travelers from all over the world come here to get a closer look at the area where the ancient buildings of the Mayan tribe have been preserved. On the territory of these cities there are currently a large number of pyramids, palaces and temples that belonged to the ancient civilization.

Another city worth visiting in Guatemala is Quetzaltenango. It is famous for its healing hot springs and handmade souvenirs. In the city of Santa Lucia Cotzumalguapa you can get acquainted with the history of America before its discovery by Columbus. You can take a ride on a luxurious snow-white yacht or on a real fishing boat by visiting Livingston, which is located in the northeast of Guatemala. Boat excursions are also available here.

Local kitchen

Cuisine of Guatemala very similar in its traditions to Mexican, Salvadoran and Honduran. One cannot ignore the Indian and Spanish culinary traditions present here, which have mixed with each other thanks to the rich history of the state. The local population of Guatemala prepares most dishes from the following products:

• Rice;
• Bobov;
• Maize;
• Meat (mostly chicken).

The dishes also always contain a large amount of herbs and various spices. The local population still uses Mayan recipes to prepare their dishes, which have survived to this day.

Coffee is considered the main drink in Guatemala., which is also a first-class export item. You can breathe in the aroma of impeccable black coffee even in the most remote corners of Guatemala. Local residents prefer to drink coffee that is not very strong, but they drink it very often - about 20 cups a day. They don't drink tea that often here. However, the most popular type of tea is Mate, which is also traditional throughout Latin America. For drinks, there is a wide variety of fruit juices, since many different fruits grow in Guatemala.

Entertainment and relaxation

If we talk about entertainment in Guatemala, then here there are about 10 national parks and reserves, the flora and fauna of which is very diverse. The country is also home to the deepest lake in all of Central America, called Atitlan. The descendants of the ancient Mayan civilization live at the very foot of the volcano in the vicinity of this lake.

Beach lovers should visit the most popular beach in Guatemala - Monterico. It stretches along the Pacific coast and is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. By the way, it is worth noting that the beach is strewn with volcanic sand.

The country is famous for a large number of different holidays. Each village or city has its own patron saint, whose day is usually celebrated on a grand scale, with musical performances, church services and colorful fireworks. You can get acquainted with traditional clothing and local life by visiting the Sunday markets in Chichicastenango and nearby towns.

Those who prefer an active holiday with a combination of sunny beaches can find many ways to have a great time:

• Hiking through ancient places;
• Surfing;
• Mountaineering on volcanoes;
• Rafting;
• Diving and much more.

What to buy?

If you want to bring some souvenirs to your loved ones, then the best option would be folk art products of the local population of Guatemala. This can be homemade clothing, Indian calendars, knitted items, semi-precious stones, wooden products, ritual paraphernalia of the Mayan civilization and much more.

Such souvenir gifts, as a rule, can be bought at local markets, and the price for them can be reduced almost in half if you haggle well. All city streets are literally strewn with various products with images of the quetzal bird, which is also the national symbol of Guatemala.

If you want to bring products as a gift, then you should pay attention for chocolate and coffee. Even the smallest store has a huge selection of these products.

All sights of Guatemala

Little Guatemala brings together a lot of things that tourists like - monuments of ancient civilizations, pyramids and acropolises of the Mayan Indians, mountain ranges and volcanoes, mountain rivers and lakes, centuries-old majestic forests, hot springs and wide beaches. We completely agree with the Spaniards who called Guatemala the “Land of Eternal Spring.”

Geography

Guatemala is located in Central America. Guatemala borders Mexico to the north and west, Belize to the northeast, and Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast. In the southwest the country is washed by the Pacific Ocean, and in the east by the Caribbean Sea. Total area – 108,890 sq. km., and the total length of the state border is 1,687 km.

Two mountain ranges cross Guatemala from west to east, dividing it into three parts - the highlands, the Pacific coast (south of the mountains) and the Petén plateau (north of the mountains). In general, more than 50% of the country is located in the Cordillera mountain system. The largest local peak is the Tajumulco volcano, whose height reaches 4,220 meters. In general, there are more than 30 volcanoes in this Central American state, and among them there are active ones (for example, the Fuego and Santa Maria volcanoes).

Earthquakes occasionally occur in Guatemala. Some of them can be very destructive (the last strong earthquake was recorded in 1976).

The longest rivers are Polochik, Usumacinta, Motagua, Rio Dulce and Sarstun.

Capital

Guatemala is the capital of the state of Guatemala. More than 1.1 million people now live in the city. Archaeologists claim that on the territory of modern Guatemala, once upon a time there was a Mayan city called Kaminaljuyu.

Official language

Guatemala has one official language – Spanish.

Religion

50-60% of the population are Catholics, about 40% are Protestants, and 3% are Orthodox Christians.

State structure

According to the current Constitution of 1985, Guatemala is a presidential republic in which the President is both the head of state and head of government.

The unicameral parliament is called the Congress of the Republic, it consists of 158 deputies elected for 4 years.

The main political parties are the Patriotic Party, National Union of Hope, Union of Nationalist Change and Democratic Freedom.

Climate and weather

The climate in Guatemala is tropical and is strongly influenced by the oceans and mountains. In coastal areas, the air temperature during the day reaches +40C, and at night it never drops below +20C. The Antigua Guatemala region has a temperate climate all year round, i.e. not very hot.

The dry season is from October to early May, and the rainy season is from late May to late September. However, “rainy season” does not mean that it rains all day. It usually rains in the afternoon for 1-2 hours, and then at night. The bright sun shines in the morning and until lunchtime. It is very rare for it to rain all day.

You can vacation in Guatemala all year round, even in the so-called. "rain season". The fact is that the “rainy season” is when the most interesting and grandiose local festivals and holidays occur.

Seas

In the southwest, Guatemala is washed by the Pacific Ocean, and in the east by the Caribbean Sea. The total length of the coastline is 400 km. During the rainy season, the water off the coast remains warm, but visibility is limited. Therefore, the best time for a beach holiday in Guatemala is from December to May, when the water is clear and warm.

Rivers and lakes

Among the longest rivers flowing through Guatemala are the following: Polochik, Usumacinta, Motagua, Rio Dulce and Sarstun.

Tourists are also interested in the Guatemalan lakes located in the mountains - Izabal, Atitlan, Guija and Peten Itza. Many of them are considered excellent holiday destinations.

Culture

It is impossible to imagine Guatemalan culture without festivals. Almost every village has its own holidays. However, more than 60 festivals are celebrated at the national level. The most popular of them are Santa Eulalia (February), Holy Week (March), Santa Cruz La Laguna (May), Almolonga (June), Santiago Atitlán (July), Joyabaj (August), San Mateo Ixtatan (September), Panajachel ( October), Nahualà (November) and Chichicastenango (December).

Kitchen

Guatemalan cuisine has its origins in the culinary traditions of the Mayan Indians. Subsequently, the inhabitants of this country adopted many dishes from the Spanish conquistadors. The main local food products are corn, beans, rice, cheese, and less often meat (chicken). Many Guatemalan dishes are similar to those prepared in neighboring Mexico.

We recommend that tourists try the following Guatemalan dishes: “Chiles rellenos” (chili peppers stuffed with rice, cheese, meat and vegetables), “Chicken Pepian” (chicken with spicy pumpkin and sesame sauce), “Kak'ik” (Mayan turkey soup with spices), "Spiced mango" (sliced ​​green mango with chilli and Om lime), "Nachos", "Flan" (caramel cream) and much more.

Traditional soft drinks are coffee, mate tea and fruit juices. Traditional alcoholic drinks are rum and wine.

Attractions

Around the 2nd century AD. In South America, the Mayan civilization was formed, which also occupied the entire territory of modern Guatemala. In Guatemala, tourists can see not only individual historical monuments of the Mayans, but also their entire cities, excavated by archaeologists. One such Mayan city (called Samabah) was discovered at the bottom of Lake Atitlan.

By the way, three Guatemalan historical and cultural sites are under the protection of UNESCO - the city of Antigua Guatemala, Tikal National Park, as well as the Quirigua Ruins complex.

Unfortunately, the ancient Mayan city of Piedras Negras is on the verge of destruction. This city was once the capital of one of the kingdoms of the local Indians.

However, the attractions of Guatemala are not limited to Indian monuments of the pre-Columbian era. In this country there are many beautiful medieval Catholic churches, monasteries, forts and fortresses that were built by immigrants from Spain. Thus, you should pay attention to the San Felipe fortress, founded in the 16th century.

Cities and resorts

The largest cities are Huehuetenango, San Marcos, Quetzaltenango, Escuintla and Guatemala.

Along the entire coast of Guatemala (Pacific and Caribbean) there are small towns that are now developing very quickly as beach resorts. On the Caribbean coast, Punta de Palma and Livingston beaches are popular among locals and tourists. However, most of the beach resorts are located on the Pacific coast, among them Tilapa, Monterrico, Zipacate, Las Lisas and San Jose. Residents of Guatemala City, for example, prefer to relax in the resort of Monterrico, whose beaches consist of volcanic black sand. By the way, in the vicinity of Monterrico there are four species of sea turtles.

Souvenirs/shopping

From Guatemala, tourists bring handicrafts (including ceramics), wooden boxes, bedspreads, blankets, necklaces, traditional women's Guatemalan blouses, skirts, colorful scarves, belts, coffee, and sweets.

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GUATEMALA

(Republic of Guatemala)

General information

Geographical position. Guatemala is a country in Central America. In the west and north it borders with Mexico, in the east with Belize, and in the southeast with Honduras and El Salvador. In the south it is washed by the Pacific Ocean, in the east by the Gulf of Honduras.

Square. The country's territory occupies 108,889 square meters. km.

Main cities, administrative divisions. The capital of the country is Guatemala City. Largest cities: Guatemala (1,115 thousand people), Quetzaltenango (98 thousand people), Escuintala (66 thousand people), Mazatenango (41 thousand people), Puerto Barrios (39 thousand people), Antigua (26 thousand people). Administrative division of the country: 22 departments.

Political system

Guatemala is a republic. The head of state and government is the president. The legislative body is the unicameral National Congress.

Relief. About two-thirds of the territory is occupied by mountains, many of which are volcanoes. The Sierra Madre mountain range crosses Guatemala from west to east. Most of the country's volcanoes are extinct; the highest point of the country is the Tajumulco volcano (4,220 m).

Geological structure and minerals. The country's subsoil contains reserves of lead, nickel, tungsten, chromium, zinc, silver, and oil.

Climate. The country's climate is mild, although the temperature varies sharply depending on the altitude: from 915 to 2,440 m, the average annual temperature is about +20°C; in coastal areas the climate is more tropical and the average annual temperature is about +28°C.

Inland waters. The main rivers of Guatemala are the Motagua and Usumaquinta.

Soils and vegetation. In the north, evergreen moist forests with valuable tree species (palms, rubber, mahogany, logwood, balsa, buckout) predominate. In the interior regions of the highlands there are mainly pine-oak forests, in the south there are deciduous forests, savannas and shrubs.

Animal world. The country's fauna is very diverse: deer, monkey, peccary, puma, jaguar, tapir, crocodile; a large number of bird species - the national symbol is the quetzal. There are a lot of shrimp in coastal waters.

Population and language

The country's population is about 12 million people, the average population density is about 110 people per 1 sq. km. Ethnic groups: Mayans - 55%, mestizos - 44%. Language: Spanish (state), local dialects.

Religion

Catholics - about 70%, Protestants (mainly Baptists and Evangelicals) - about 30%.

Brief historical sketch

Guatemala was the center of the Mayan Empire (III-X centuries).

In 1523, the country was conquered by Spanish troops under the command of Pedro de Alvarado. 300 years later, on September 15, 1821, Guatemala (which at that time covered the territory from the state of Chialas to Costa Rica) declared independence. In 1823, the state of the United Provinces of Central America was formed, which included Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. In 1839, the states included in the association declared complete independence.

From 1898 to 1920 and from 1931 to 1944. The country was ruled by dictatorial regimes. The government of President X. Arbenz Guzman (1951-1954), which tried to implement land reform, was overthrown as a result of a military coup supported by the United States. A period of new coups, organized by various military groups, followed (1954-1965,1970-1985); Left-wing rebel groups operated in the country. Since 1985, a civilian government has been in power.

Brief Economic Essay

Guatemala is an agricultural country. Main commercial crops: coffee, bananas, cardamom, cotton; consumer - corn, rice, beans. Livestock farming is backward. Preparations of valuable tropical wood and chicle resin (for the production of chewing gum). Extraction of lead-zinc ores, salt. Food, leather, textile, petrochemical industries. Oil refinery and steel rolling plants. Export of coffee, raw cotton, bananas, sugar. Tourism.

The monetary unit is the quetzal.