1. Costa Rican Politics

2. History b September 15, 1821 / "Concord Pact” b The vote of the people--1899--democracy b Civil War - 1948 b Women allowed to vote in 1953 b Unprecedented growth from 50s to 80s b Privatization introduced in 90s

3. Government Structure b The executive branch consists of a president, two vice presidents, and a cabinet of eighteen Ministers. b The Legislative Assembly is made up of fifty-seven deputies. b The judicial branch has a Supreme Court. The twenty-two magistrates of the Supreme Court are selected by the Legislative Assembly.

4. Political Parties b The National Liberation Party (PLN) - Social Democratic party - Figueres b Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC), which is more conservative - Calderon b Citizens' Action Party

5. Important Political Figures b Juan Mora Fernandez - first head of state in 1824. b Rafael Angel Calderon Guardia (‘40-’44) - social status increase b José “don Pepe” Figueres (‘53-’57 & ‘70-’74) - new constitution, state b Oscar Arias Sanchez (‘86-’90) - Nobel PP b Miguel Angel Rodriguez Echeverria - PUSC (‘98-’02)

6. Current Politicians b President Abel PACHECO (8/5/02) b First Vice President Lineth SABORIO Second Vice President Luis FISHMAN