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INTRODUCTION
Guatemala is known for its high and active volcanoes, for its impressive Mayan ruins and for its
devastating earthquakes. A Spanish colony for almost 3 centuries, Guatemala became a republic in 1839, but has been plagued by civil wars since 1961. In 1996, the government signed a peace agreement formally ending the conflict.
Location of Guatemala
Guatemala lies below Mexico in Central America. It shares borders with El Salvador and Honduras to the east and with Mexico to the north and west. Belize borders it on the northeast. The Pacific Ocean lies to the south.
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Flora And Fauna of Guatemala
The Guatemalan lowlands bear plants typical of tropical areas. In the mountains oak trees dominate the lower slopes, giving way to pine forests above 2,100 m (7,000 ft). Orchids and other flowers grow abundantly throughout. Deer, monkeys, and pig like mammals called 'peccaries' are common in the sparsely populated lowlands. Other wild animals including jaguar, tapir, and puma-are found in smaller numbers, and crocodiles inhabit some rivers. Bird life is rich, but the brightly colored quetzal, Guatemala's national bird, is rare.
Map of Guatemala
Guatemala's geography has frequently influenced its history. About two-thirds of the country's land area is mountainous. The rugged terrain has provided refuge to the indigenous people from Spanish conquest in the 16th century, while the fertile valleys produced fine coffees and other crops that dominated the nation's economy. Frequent volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and torrential rains have hampered the development of communication links.
Climate of Guatemala
It has a very good weather all year round, which is why it is often called "The Land of Eternal Spring". Two seasons, namely, the dry season (from mid August thru April) and the wet season (from May to mid August) can be distinguished. The climate though, varies according to the elevation, from hot
coastal plains to cold mountain slopes.
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