God, Union and Liberty : The Military as the Key Player in Costa Rica, 1820-1824

Abstract

In Costa Rica at the time of independence a central government did not exist, and even after its organization, it remained very weak. Due to this fact military officers stepped forward to control and govern each town. After controlling each town military officers fought for political control of the country. During these years to become a military officer was the best professional career to follow. Military officers were looked upon with respect, fear and power. As a result military culture became the social realm which controlled towns and guided state formation in the 1820s.