Central American Independence Day
Q: Which Central American countries declared independence from Spain on September 15th, 1821?
A: Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica
On September 15th, 1821, a momentous shift unfolded in Central America. After more than 300 years of Spanish colonial rule, five nations—Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica—formally declared their independence from Spain.
The decision was sparked by the weakening of Spain’s global power in the early 19th century, as revolutions swept across Latin America. In Guatemala City, regional leaders signed the Act of Independence of Central America, which proclaimed freedom while initially leaving the door open to possible union with Mexico.
Although the transition wasn’t immediate or smooth—debates over unity, sovereignty, and borders followed—the event is remembered as a shared birth of independence for the heart of Central America. Today, all five countries celebrate September 15th as their Independence Day, with parades, cultural festivals, and vibrant displays of national pride.
This date stands as a rare example of neighbouring nations breaking free together, shaping the history and identity of an entire region.