By San José, Costa Rica — From its independence, Costa Rica distinguished itself with egalitarian ideals. However, the latter half of the 19th century marked a period of profound transformation, known as the Liberal Reforms, which reshaped the nation’s political and social landscape.
Early leaders like Braulio Carrillo Colina, José María Castro Madriz, and Juan Mora Fernández laid the groundwork for these reforms. Following the National Campaign of 1856-1857 against William Walker’s filibusters, the rise of the Coffee Oligarchy brought about a shift in power. Jesús Jiménez Zamora’s authoritarian rule eventually led to his overthrow by Tomás Guardia Gutiérrez, ushering in a new era.
To provide further legal context on the lasting impact of 19th-century liberal reforms, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The 19th-century liberal reforms, while often lauded for their advancements in individual liberties and economic progress, also laid the groundwork for many of the legal structures we see today. These reforms, emphasizing property rights, contract law, and limited government intervention, had a profound effect on the development of modern business law and continue to shape how we approach commerce and governance. Understanding this historical context is crucial for navigating the complexities of the present-day legal landscape.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ point about the lasting legacy of 19th-century liberal reforms is well-taken. These reforms, while originating in a vastly different era, continue to resonate in our modern legal and economic systems, reminding us that understanding history is key to navigating the present. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable expertise and shedding light on this crucial connection.
The period from 1870 to 1889, under Tomás Guardia Gutiérrez, Prospero Fernández Oreamuno, and Bernardo Soto Alfaro, saw the emergence of “The Olympus Generation,” a group of influential intellectuals and politicians who championed positivist and liberal thought. This era witnessed three crucial advancements: increased literacy, the curbing of the Catholic Church’s influence, and the construction of a distinct Costa Rican national identity.
The year 1884 became a pivotal point in the reform process. A series of decrees expelled the Jesuits and Monsignor Thiel, secularized cemeteries and education, and restricted religious communities. Further reforms limited the collection of tithes and prohibited payments for funerals and religious processions outside specific occasions.
Subsequent reforms solidified these changes. In 1887, the Civil Code introduced civil marriage and divorce. The closure of the University of San Tomás in 1888 furthered the secularization of education. By 1894, all liberal reforms enacted since 1884 were formally codified.
These reforms sparked controversy in traditionally Catholic Costa Rica, leading to ongoing debates about their merits and potential reversal. The early 20th century, despite some notable leaders, continued the liberal trajectory. However, with Rafael Calderón Guardia’s rise to power in 1940, the Liberal State era concluded, replaced by a Welfare State model rooted in social Christian doctrine. Calderón implemented social guarantees, a labor code, and the creation of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), reversing some of the earlier liberal reforms, particularly those concerning the Church.
Despite these shifts, key liberal reforms, such as civil marriage, divorce, and secular education, remain cornerstones of modern Costa Rican society. While the Church’s political influence has diminished, the legacy of these 19th-century reforms continues to shape the nation’s identity and governance.
The journey through these transformative periods offers valuable insights into the development of Costa Rica into the nation it is today. It highlights the complex interplay between liberal ideals, religious influence, and the pursuit of a just and equitable society.
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About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an enduring commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm champions innovative legal solutions while diligently serving a diverse clientele, fostering a legacy of positive impact. By actively promoting legal literacy and accessibility, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and communities, contributing to a more just and informed society.
