Commemoration of the 1944 Revolution

On October 20, Guatemala celebrates the Revolution Anniversary, marking the historical events from 1944.

This commemorates a civic and military uprising that included the participation of the army, students and workers to overthrow the oppressive government of Federico Ponce Vaides. This emerged as a response to political repression, precarious working conditions, and the concentration of land inherited from the colonial era that started with former President Jorge Ubico in 1933.

With this revolution a democratic process was started in Guatemala leading to the first free elections, it also marked the beginning of political, social and economic modernization that is now known as the “Ten Years of Spring”.

For Guatemala, this celebration represents a victory for its people against political repression and social injustice.