Signing Of The Peace Accords
Observed on the 16th of January annually in El Salvador, The Signing of the Peace Accords is a holiday that commemorates the end of the Salvadoran Civil War and the signing of the peace accords that ended that war. The Salvadoran Civil War began on October 15th, 1979, and ended on January 16th, 1992.
El salvador (Observance)It’s a war that ended up killing over 75,000 people in that time with another 8,000 ending up missing. The day that commemorates the signing of the Chapultepec Peace Accords is a public holiday in El Salvador, so it’s not only a day off for the general public but is also a day when most businesses, schools, and government offices close for the day.
The History Of The Signing Of The Peace Accords In El Salvador
Against the backdrop of worsening socio-economic inequality in the country, and increased social unrest, President Molina enacted land reform measures that called for large holdings of land to be redistributed among the peasant population. Due to opposition from the elite from which these lands were going to be taken, the measure failed, however. This led to an increase of discontent among the citizenry towards the government.
On February 20th, 1977, the National Conciliation Party (PCN) defeated the National Opposing Union (UNO) in the presidential elections. The election results were fraudulent and there were massive protests between the election and the formal inauguration of President Romero. The government responded by oppressing these protests—a practice that continued even after the president’s inauguration.
On October 15th, 1979, President Romero was deposed in a coup by the Revolutionary Government of Junta. Hoping to build stability in the area, the U.S. supported the new military government. The war would last until January 16th, 1992, when the Chapultepec Peace Accords were signed.
Observing The Signing Of The Peace Accords In El Salvador
This holiday is generally observed with political speeches and with solemn ceremonies. Since it’s a day off for many, some people may visit families to enjoy fine El Salvadoran foods such as Stuffed Tortillas, Tripe Soup, and Wild Chicken Soup.
El salvador (Observance)
