Armed Forces Day: Guatemala commemorates an important revolt against oppression on Armed Forces Day, which is observed on July 30. This is a typical titanic struggle between outmoded ideologies and a new perspective on the world, pitting conservative philosophy against the vigour of liberal thought. On this day, many lifetimes ago, the Liberal Revolution overthrew the autocratic, immovable rule of Vincente Cerna, and a new era in Guatemalan history began.
The history of Armed Forces Day in Guatemala is insufficient without the mention of Vincente Cerna, a military officer and close associate of dictator Rafael Carrera (1840 to 1865). Guatemala had mixed reactions to Carrera’s authority. He was unquestionably a ruthless despot, but he also ushered in an era of peace and development, especially in Guatemala’s coffee culture. Before his death, Carrera appointed Cerna as his successor. Cerna continued what Carrera had begun, and for a time everything was going swimmingly. Soon thereafter, pressures on his regime increased. By 1867, his authority was marked by numerous rebellions and uprisings. Additionally, political alliances in the region began to disintegrate. The government of Cerna had unfavourable relations with Benito Juárez’s more liberal regime in Mexico. Guatemalan and international organisations eager to modernise and extend coffee production in the region grew increasingly frustrated with Cerna’s policies. Regardless, he clung to power and launched a campaign against detractors.
The critical point occurred when he forced opposition leader Miguel Garca Granados into exile. A reckless act that prompted Cerna’s Guatemalan and Mexican allies to organise a joint coup. Thus began the 1871 Liberal Revolution, commanded by Garca Granados and Justo Rufino Barrios. On June 29, 1871, the liberal forces defeated Cerna’s army and took possession of the government the following day.
The coup signalled a new chapter in Guatemala’s history. It paved the way for 12 years of agrarian reform under Justo Rufino Barrios, the new chief of state. The anniversary of the revolt, originally known as Revolution Day, ultimately became Da del EjÉrcito (Army Day), a public holiday honouring the armed forces. Guatemalans commemorate annually with elaborate military parades and processions. A counter-movement against Army Day celebrations arose in the 21st century. In remembrance of the thousands of civilians slain by military leadership during the civil war, activists organised a March of Remembrance.
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Armed Forces Day commemorates an important period in Guatemalan history. It commemorates a period of innovation and modernization.
Armed Forces Day marks the end of a tyrannical regime. And that is always a reason to celebrate.
Reading about war and its irreversible effects requires the existence of calm. It ensures that history will never be repeated.
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