Key events in the history of Costa Rica:

1502: Christopher Columbus visits the area and names it Costa Rica (The Rich Coast).

1808: Coffee is introduced to Costa Rica from Cuba and becomes the main crop.

1821: Costa Rica gains independence from Spain.

1874: Minor Keith Cooper, a US businessman introduces banana cultivation and starts the United Fruits Company.

1948: A 6-week civil war occurs over a disputed presidential election result.

1949: Woman and people of African decent have the right to vote, armed forces are abolished and replaced with the civil guard.

1963-4: Irazu Volcano erupts causing damage to farmland.

1968: Arenal volcano erupts, causing many casualties.

1986: Oscar Arias becomes president.

1994: Jose Maria Figueres Olsen becomes president

1998: Miguel Angel Rodriguez becomes president.

2005: National Emergency declared as excess flooding hits the Caribbean Coast.

2006: Oscar Arias becomes president again.

2006: Two day workers strike as Tico's protest against CAFTA.

2007: Costa Rica on course to become first voluntarily 'carbon neutral' country.

2007: Costa Rica switches diplomatic agreement from Taiwan to China to attract Chinese investment.

This article was brought to you by Caroline Wilson, a web consultant for Costa Rica News.