History of Ecuador

Comprising a rich and varied history spanning thousands of years, Ecuador is a nation in South America. Indigenous tribes living off the land and creating their own distinct cultures were the original occupants of this area.

Pre-Columbian Era

When the Valdivia culture initially emerged along Ecuador's coast 3000 BCE, the country's history started. Later pre-Columbian societies included the Machalilla, Chorrera, and Bahía civilizations. Early communities were renowned for their outstanding trade systems, agriculture, and ceramics. Within Ecuador's highlands, the Quitu-Cara people founded their kingdom during the first millennium BCE. Their sophisticated farming methods and remarkable stone buildings were well-known.

Etymology of Ecuador

The Spanish term for equator—which runs across Ecuador—comes first in the name "Ecuador". When the Spanish colonists came in the 16th century, they dubbed the area by its name.

Pre-Inca era 

The Inca Empire spread into what is now Ecuador in the fifteenth century. Among the major changes the strong Inca culture brought to the area were a uniform language and improved farming methods.

Spanish Colonial Era

Ecuador was included in the Viceroyalty of Peru under Spanish control. Conflicts with indigenous people resulted from the colonists' self-serving use of the land and resources. The Spanish were able to seize Ecuador under opposition from indigenous leaders, including Atahualpa and Rumiñahui. Their language, religion, and rituals brought plenty of influence on Ecuador's culture.

Independence Movement

Known as the First Cry of Independence, a rebellion against Spanish control occurred in Quito in 1809. Though the Spanish rapidly put down this uprising, it spurred a drive for independence all throughout South America. Simón Bolívar was the most powerful leader in Ecuador's battle for independence since he aided many nations to be free from Spanish persecution. Declaring Ecuador's independence, he led the colonial army at the Battle of Pichincha in 1822.

Liberal Revolution 

Ecuador underwent political unrest and steady changes of leadership over the 19th century. Ecuador signed along with Venezuela and Colombia on with the Republic of Gran Colombia in 1830. But, this marriage split in 1839, and Ecuador gained its freedom. Aiming to modernize Ecuador and lower the authority of the Catholic Church, a sequence of liberal revolutions occurred there in the late 19th century. Though they generated major social and economic changes, these events caused strife between conservatives and liberals.

Loss of claimed territories since 1830 

Particularly Colombia and Peru, Ecuador has had territorial conflicts with its neighbors. Ecuador claimed areas subsequently taken by Colombia and Peru with the signing of the Treaty of Guayaquil in 1829.  Over disputed territory, Ecuador and Peru started the war in 1941 that claimed major losses for Ecuador. The battle was at last settled in 1998 when a peace treaty was signed.

Struggle for independence 

Ecuador kept experiencing political unrest and violence among several factions in the 20th century. Military tyrant General Guillermo Rodríguez Lara supplaced the democratically chosen government in 1979. This set off a sequence of protests and acts against the administration, leading to its fall in 1981. Ecuador has come a great distance toward democracy since then, while it still struggles with corruption and economic disparity.

Struggle for possession of the Amazon Basin

Rich in natural riches, Ecuador has lately experienced disputes with other nations over the Amazon Basin.  A court decided in Ecuador's favor in 2008 on their claim of basin ownership against Colombia, a neighboring nation.

Military governments (1972–79) 

Aiming to modernize Ecuador and create economic stability, a series of military governments swept across the country during the 1970s.  Still, these nations distinguished themselves for violations of human rights and political opposition suppression. Appointed Ecuador's president in 1979, Jaime Roldós brought civilian power back there. Since then, Ecuador has had several democratically elected governments; nonetheless, political unrest, poverty, and inequality continue to afflict it.

Return to democracy (1979–present) 

Ecuador underwent a significant social change when populist politicians such as Rafael Correa first emerged in the late 20th and early 21st century. These leaders curbed political freedoms but also carried initiatives aimed to reduce poverty and inequality under close examination. Recent years have seen Ecuador undergo a peaceful change of leadership between many parties through elections.   Entering office in 2017, Lenín Moreno is the president now focused on improving social issues and economic stability.

Government and politics

Run under a presidential system of government, Ecuador is a democratic Republic. The president, heading state and government, also names the cabinet and other high-level officials. While Ecuador has a multi-party system, two political parties have lately ruled the country: the leftist PAIS Alliance party and the center-right Social Christian Party.

Military

The Army, Navy, and Air Force of Ecuador constitute its armed forces. All men over the age of eighteen must serve in the military; waivers for some professions or physical limitations are rare. Though it is under civilian authority and oversight, the military participates in disaster relief and national security missions. The military has been quite helpful to Indigenous people living in far-off locations hit by natural disasters in recent years. 

Foreign affairs 

Apart from being a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, Organization of American States, and World Trade Organization, Ecuador maintains diplomatic contacts with other countries. Projects under active support of regional integration attempts by the nation include the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America and the Union of South American Nations.

Human rights 

Ecuador has advanced in safeguarding and advancing human rights, particularly efforts against discrimination against underprivileged groups and the acknowledgement of indigenous rights.

Administrative divisions

There are 24 provinces in Ecuador, each with elected prefect and autonomous administration. For administrative reasons, the provinces are also split into parishes and cantons.

Climate 

Apart from the mountains with a lower and temperate temperature, Ecuador boasts a mostly tropical environment. Whereas the Amazon area gets plenty of rain all year long, the coastal areas are hot and muggy.

Biodiversity 

Comprising thousands of animal species and 25,000 plant species, Ecuador is among the most biodiverse countries on Earth. Several odd species seen on the offshore Galapagos Islands inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

Economy 

Natural resources, oil, agriculture, and fisheries define the Ecuadorian economy. Still, initiatives aiming at diversification and support for other sectors, like manufacturing and tourism, have been started. Additionally, causing financial challenges for the country lately are declining oil prices and political turbulence. Changes in the economy have been done to address issues and forward development.

Tourism 

A popular travel location, Ecuador boasts varied scenery and customs. From the Galapagos Islands to the Andes tall lands to the Amazon jungle, the nation possesses amazing natural splendor.

Education

Five to fourteen year olds must attend Ecuadorian schools; free public education is offered at all levels. Access to top-notch education does provide challenges, particularly in outlying areas.

Healthcare 

Ecuador has achieved substantial improvement toward improving residents' access to healthcare by implementing a universal healthcare system. To improve coverage and boost the level of care, the government has undertaken infrastructure and resource investments.

Religion 

While a small percentage identifies as Protestant, most Ecuadorians are Roman Catholic. The country maintains respect for religious freedom.

Cuisine 

Although Ecuadorian cuisine is regional, indigenous dishes and Spanish colonial ideas have the most influence. Popular dishes are empanadas, locro (a soup based on potatoes, and ceviche.

Sports 

Thanks to its outstanding national team and devoted supporters, football is Ecuador's most-watched sport. Among other big sports include basketball, volleyball, and bullfighting. Native to the nation are indigenous sports such volleyball and fulbito, a micro-soccer.