Kristal Wright The History of Costa Rica Although Costa Rica is known best for its beautiful scenery and friendly people, it is also known for its rich cultural background. Christopher Columbus landed on the coast of Costa Rica on September 18, 1502. This small country only inhabited a few thousand people before the arrival of the Spaniards, and many left after they colonized. The Spaniards not only brought with them a new European culture, but also many diseases. The local people were unable to withstand it and many people died because of it. Due to the many Spanish settlers, the culture of Costa Rica was greatly shaped and transformed by a European influence. A tribe known as the Carib Indians who were decorated with much jewelry greeted Christopher Columbus and his crew. Due to this fact Spaniard Gil Gonzalez Davila named the country Costa Rica, or Rich Coast. The recorded history of Costa Rica began with the arrival of Columbus; however, archaeologists have found evidence that dates back 10,000 years ago. They have found thousands of perfectly spherical huge granite balls near the west coast of the country. There are still many mysteries that surround the country due to their lack of knowledge about the pre-Columbian period. Costa Rica had four major tribes including the Carib Indians who lived on east coast. The other tribes included the Borucas, Chibchas, and Diquis who all remained in the southwest region of the country. However, due to the rapid decline of the population, most of these people perished. The country now contains a largely a homogenous people and culture. Out of 3 million people who live in Costa Rica, 98 percent of these people are white and call themselves Ticos.
The country of Costa Rica grew rapidly during the 18th century with the settlements of cities such as Heredia, San Jose and Alajuela. Although the hopes for gold never materialized, the introduction of coffee in 1808. Due to the production of coffee, many entrepreneurs were attracted to the country. The introduction of coffee introduced a class structure, wealth, and most importantly independence. Much economic and cultural growth took place during Juan Rafael Mora’s term as president. In 1856 US military adventurer William Walker and his army of Nicaraguan slaves invaded Costa Rica. Mora, who was in control at this time, organized an army of 9000 civilians who defeated Walker’s army. This was not the end of violent times for Costa Rica however. A civil war broke out in 1948 after Dr. Rafael Angel Calderon and his party refused to give up power after losing the presidential election. Jose Maria Figueres Ferrer defeated Calderon about a month later and ended up being a very successful president. He made many reforms in policy and civil rights. The constitution of 1949 was created which finally gave women and blacks the right to vote. Costa Rica has been shaped by the many influential people who have resided in the country over the years. Their history has enriched their culture and made them into the hard working country they are today. Not only does Costa Rica have a very intriguing background, but also it is a beautiful and peaceful country.