Costa Rica

“A government should not function based on the pressures of some or other. I should try to adapt a mix of measures that fits every context and generates the appropriate steps forward.” [Laura Chinchilla, president of Costa Rica]

Costa Rica’s history, geography, people, lifestyle, and society are very important in the development of the country.

History

In 1559, Costa Rica was conquered by the Spanish. The city Cartago was established by Juan Vasquez de Coronado, but was later destroyed in 1723 by the volcano Irazù. In 1821, Costa Rica became independent from Spain and became part of the Mexican Empire of Augustin de Iturbide, but in 1823 it entered a civil war with Mexico and won its freedom.

Costa Rica also had troubling times. A disgruntled United States southerner named William Walker tried to turn Central America into a slave state and attempted to invade with only 50 men. When defeated by Mexico, he moved on to Costa Rica. He was defeated there and was later executed in Honduras. In 1948 a civil war started in Costa Rica. Dr. Rafael Angel Calderon and the United Social Christian Party refused to release presidential power after losing the election. Calderon was later defeated by Jose Maria Figueres Ferrer in one month.

Ferrer became one of Costa Rica’s most influential leaders. He was the head of the Founding Junta of the Second Republic of Costa Rica, made vast reforms in policy and civil rights, and gave women and blacks the right to vote. Also, the communist party was banned, banks were nationalized, and established presidential term limits. As you can see, Ferrer made great influences to Costa Rica.

Geography

Costa Rica has a very complex geography. Its coastal plain is separated by rugged mountains, the Cordiller...

... middle of paper ...

...usic and dance.

Society

Costa Rica has a very simple society. It is a democratic republic under the presidency of Laura Chinchilla, the first female president of Costa Rica. Its economy is based around agriculture. Their different means of transportation are shuttles, auto rentals, taxis, and even horseback.

Costa Ricans are highly literate people. There are schools found in every community. The University of Costa Rica enrolls about 35,000 students a year, mostly on scholarships.

Costa Rica also has great healthcare. Their private hospitals offer high-quality medical care ate a small fraction of the United States’ equivalent cost, and are constantly being upgraded. Doctors rarely charge more than $60 per visit. The World Health Organization placed Costa Rica in top country rankings in the world for long life expectancy.