Global Courant 2023-05-14 11:05:50
With only seven weeks to go before an emblematic date, there is no sign of commemoration, preparation or even a reminder at the student level. On July 1, 1823, the sterile and unproductive annexation to Mexico of the former Captaincy General of Guatemala ended, which was renamed the United Provinces of Central America and later, with a current constitution, the Federal Republic of Central America.
The transitional union to the then Mexican Empire occurred shortly after the political emancipation of Spain, basically because of mercantilist interests that sought to prolong privileges. The fall from grace of Agustín de Iturbide, who declared himself emperor, precipitated the separation. The province of Guatemala lost the territory of Chiapas and Soconusco, which by rigged vote chose to remain connected to Mexico. This episode, which practically constitutes a “second independence”, continues to be very little studied in the classroom and even less exalted, despite its enormous symbolism.
“The incorporation of these provinces into the extinct Mexican empire, verified only in fact at the end of 1821 and beginning of 1822, was a violent expression ripped off by vicious and illegal means, which was not agreed upon or pronounced by bodies or by legitimate means,” it was stated. read in the historical act of 1823, in which the future States declare to be “free and independent of the old Spain, of Mexico and of any other power, both of the old and of the new world; and that they are not and should not be the patrimony of any person or family”. Great aspiration.
The blue and white colors became symbolic for the provinces and to date all the Central American countries keep those colors on their flags, although with later changes and provisions. The declaration of 1823 protected freedom of the press, the right to political organization and democratic elections. However, the polarization of “liberal” and “conservative” interests, as well as the conflicts between dominant families in each territory, would lead to the gradual dissolution of the Federation in less than two decades.
The vicissitudes of history do not make such an upcoming anniversary any less significant. The factions in conflict 200 years ago no longer exist in the same way and yet there are other extremist groups that encourage the division through their dogmatism and intolerance, which hinder the progress and integration of States, now independent. It is enough to see, for example, how the Nicaraguan dictatorship tramples on democratic liberties without the other States condemning such a destructive act.
Even common economic interests are no longer enough to link consensus, proof that empty caudillismo have been and are the barrier to greater integration. Meanwhile, the Central American Parliament has spent 30 years without pain or glory or office or benefit, since it has only served as a refuge for relatives and den of impunity. This is due to its integration mechanism and the incapacities of government management, lacking in vision. There is still time to organize some educational and reflective activity, in order to learn from the mistakes made over and over again for 200 years.
