As you traverse through the lush rainforests and bask in the golden rays on pristine beaches, it’s important to remember that Costa Rica’s history dates back long before its emergence as a tourist hotspot. The land was once inhabited by indigenous tribes, such as the Chorotega, Huetar, and Bribri, whose legacies continue to echo through the cultural heritage of the nation. The Spanish colonial period brought about significant changes to the region. Costa Rica, originally part of the Captaincy General of Guatemala, gained its independence from Spain in 1821 along with other Central American nations. It later became part of the Federal Republic of Central America, a short-lived political entity that influenced its early governance.