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 concluded that conflict. The Salvadoran Civil War began on October 15, 1979, and ended on January 16, 1992.
El salvador (Observance)It was a war that resulted in the deaths of over 75,000 people during that time, with another 8,000 reported missing. The day that commemorates the signing of the Chapultepec Peace Accords is a public holiday in El Salvador, so it is not only a day off for the general public but also a day when most businesses, schools, and government offices are closed.
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. However, due to opposition from the elite, from whom these lands were to be taken, the measure failed. This led to an increase in discontent among the citizenry towards the government.
On February 20, 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 15, 1979, President Romero was deposed in a coup by the Revolutionary Government Junta. Hoping to build stability in the area, the U.S. supported the new military government. The war lasted until January 16, 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 solemn ceremonies. Since it is a day off for many, some people may visit family to enjoy fine Salvadoran foods such as stuffed tortillas, tripe soup, and wild chicken soup.
El salvador (Observance)
