Ancient Cultures
Archaelogical investigations carried out in the area have determined the existence of important cultures which inhabited the region before the Inca invasion. Cultures included: Valdivia, Machala, Guangala and Chorrera. The most significant archaeological remains have been discovered in Punta de Santa Elena, San Pablo, Valdivia, Buena Vista and Posorja.
The Huancavilcas
Isla Puna was the geopolitical centre of the Huancavilcas, a brave and courageous civilisation who firmly resisted Huayna-Capac's troops and later fought against the Spanish led by Pizarro. The Huancavilcas were a maritime power, who developed navigational techniques. Six chiefs governed several communities under leader Tumbala.
Municipial Museum
This museum, exhibiting an important archaelogical collection on its ground floor, was founded in 1908. The building also houses the modern municipial library, which houses its own extensive classic collection.
The Foundation of Guayaquil
Sebastian de Benalcazar first founded the city of Guayaquil under the name Santiago, later giving the name Guayaquil to the sector known as Estero de Dimas on the 25th July 1535. The Huancavilcas who arrived at the site did not affect the founding of the city. With the arrival of the Spanish, Captain Zaera founded the city again by rivers Yaguachi and Babahoyo. The city was founded for a third time by Francisco de Orellana in 1537 at the foot of the Santa Ana hill, known as Cerro de la Culata.
Fires and Pirates
Among the most important events in Guayaquil's history are the numerous fires that destroyed the city on various occasions, pirate invasions and an outbreak of yellow fever. The first 'bomb to put out the flames' was ordered by King Charles III of Spain in 1780. Fires have been the city's nemesis, although Guayaquil has emerged intact time and time again. From 1624, pirates brought death and destruction to the city, 1709 being the most violent year.
The Docks
From 1700 the port of Guayaquil gained importance in the import-export market. Cocoa, coffee, fertilisers and wood was exported. Tobacco generated large quantities of money for the Spanish crown. During the colonial period, Guayaquil was reputed for its docks and the ability of its shipmakers: Guayaquil's docks were the only ones of any importance along the Pacific coast. All huge ships ordered by the Spanish were constructed here in the docks of Guayaquil.
Guayaquil During Independence
On 9th October 1820 Guayaquil officially gained its independence from the Spanish. Thanks to a victorious group of creole patriots (Jose de Villamil, Jose Antepara, Luis Fernando de Vivero, Juan Francisco y Antonio Elizalde, Francisco de Paula Lavayen, Jose Rivas, Jose Correa and Manuel de J. Fajardo) the act of Independence was passed and Jose Joaquin Olmedo was appointed political chief. Simon Bolivar learned of the importance of the independence movement and as a result got in touch with the governmental Junta to send them instructions and provide advice.
Guayaquil During the Republic
One of the most important events of the Republican period was thanks to the actions of those in Guayaquil: the Liberal Revolution of 5th June 1895. The revolution was headed by General Eloy Alfaro. After one of the numerous devastating fires in 1896, agricultural and commercial development in the city really took off, especially cocoa production, the main part of which was concentrated in the hands of a few rich large landowners, bankers and exporters.
Last Updated 15th September 2006 (DLW)
