El Salvador: Smallest Central American Nation

El Salvador, Central America's smallest and most densely populated country, has beautiful Pacific beaches, volcanic landscapes, and Maya ruins. A brutal civil war (1980-1992) and gang violence have challenged this small nation.

El Salvador has numerous volcanoes, creating fertile soil for coffee cultivation. Joya de Cerén, the "Pompeii of the Americas," preserves a Maya village buried by volcanic ash. Pacific beaches attract surfers. San Salvador is the capital. The US dollar is the official currency since 2001.

The civil war killed 75,000 and created lasting trauma. Powerful gangs (MS-13, Barrio 18) originated among Salvadoran immigrants in LA and spread back to El Salvador, creating violence. Recent government crackdowns have reduced crime but raised human rights concerns. Despite challenges, Salvadorans are known for warmth, pupusas (national dish), and resilience. Large diaspora in the US sends remittances supporting the economy.