Ecuador’s history is extremely rich and dates back to aboriginal societies. It is estimated that its first inhabitants appeared approximately in 1800 BC Their economy was chiefly based on agriculture and harvesting. The discovery of ceremonial grounds and archeological temples, in various locations around the country, bear witness of their existence. This first stage is divided into the Paelo-Indian, Formative, Regional Development, Integration and Incaic periods. The latter refers to the Incas, who inhabited the highlands of the Andes in Ecuador and certain portions of the coastal region. Its people had various customs and languages. The Inca hegemonic rule ended with the arrival of the Spaniards in 1532. Harsh battles ensued. By 1563, after aboriginal territories were conquered, the Royal District of Quito (Real Audiencia de Quito) was established. As a Spanish colony, its boundaries extended to the north to what today is Pasto, Popayan, Cali, Buenaventura and Buga in Colombia, and to the south to Piura, Peru. Toward the end of the 18th century and due to effects of external events, primarily the French Revolution, the Spanish colonies in America gained their independence. After the Royal District’s independence in 1822, the three major cities of what today is Ecuador¾Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca¾joined the Great Colombia (Gran Colombia). Simon Bolivar became President of this new republic which also included Venezuela and Nueva Granada. For administrative purposes the territory was divided into three departments: Venezuela, Cundinamarca and Quito. However, amidst internal strife, individual interests and political ambitions, the Great Colombia disintegrated. In 1830, the Republic of Ecuador was established. Since then, political upheaval was constantly present in the country’s development as a republic. Through the years, the country has alternated between liberal, moderate and conservative administrations, interrupted by periods of military dictatorships.