Guatemala gained independence from Spain in early 1821 and declared independence from Mexico in 1823. It was then part of the United Provinces of Central America. The country collapsed after a rebellion led by Rafael Carrera. Carrera made himself the Military arbiter over Guatemala. He was also named president for life in 1854, and elections were abolished. He ruled until his death in 1865, and during this period, he tried to return Guatemala to its state when the Spanish ruled the country. He declared Guatemala a sovereign nation in 1847. After he died, General Vicente Cerna succeeded him as the ruler of Guatemala, but he was overthrown in 1871 by Miguel García and Justo Rufino Barrios. During Barrios’ presidency, he helped make a new constitution, railroads, telegraph lines, and regular roads as well. He also helped make coffee the number one export that Guatemala cultivated. He tried to invade El Salvador with an army to take over the country. This plan failed, though, and Barrios was killed in battle. Manuel Lisandro Barrilas became the next President for Guatemala, but was succeeded by Barrios’ nephew; Jose Maria Barrios, who was assasinated after six years in his presidency in 1898.  Manuel Estrada Cabrera became the next president of Guatemala, and he helped the economy develop very well. He also led to advancements in education and railroads, but he killed his enemies and persecuted opponents in politics. After his death in 1924, there were multiple presidents who ruled for small amounts of time until a military takeover in 1931. General Jorge Ubico became president and began a long dictatorship in the country. He changed the budget and economy of Guatemala for the better but made a vagrancy law, and multiple other unfair laws, especially for indigenous people. He also declared war on Italy, Japan, and Germany during World War II He was forced to resign in 1944, and Juan Jose Arevalo became the next president. He helped the Indigenous communities throughout his rule.