Jacobo Arbenz

Jacobo Árbenz was the President of Guatemala from 1951 to 1954. He was known for his progressive reforms, notably land redistribution aimed at helping peasants and reducing inequality. Árbenz's efforts to modernize Guatemala's economy and promote social justice made him popular among some citizens but alarmed powerful interests, including the United States' government and large landowners. In 1954, a covert U.S.-backed operation led to his overthrow, citing concerns about communism and regional stability. His tenure is seen as a pivotal moment in Central American history, illustrating the impact of Cold War politics on national sovereignty and social reform.