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Costa Rica Timeline
Travel through our timeline of major events in Costa Rica's history.
500 A.D.
The Diquís, native people living in what is now southern Costa Rica, begin using gold to make jewelry, animal figures and other objects.1502
On September 18, Christopher Columbus becomes the first European to reach Costa Rica. Spanish colonization begins in 1522.1821
Costa Rica gains its independence from Spain and joins the Mexican Empire.1823
The Mexican Empire dissolves; Costa Rica joins El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua as the United Provinces of Central America.1838
Costa Rica becomes a fully independent country.
1849-1859
Juan Rafael Mora leads the fight against William Walker, an American who tries to take control of the region.1949
A new constitution is adopted after a bloody 44-day civil war. 1963 The Absoluta Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is created. It is the first of many protected areas in the country.1963
The Absoluta Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is created. It is the first of many protected areas in the country.
STEPHAN DE PROUW—GETTY IMAGES
1968
Arenal Volcano erupts.