Why did Central America separate from Mexico in 1823?

The Central American provinces separated from Mexico in 1823 primarily due to the collapse of the Mexican Empire under Agustín de Iturbide.12

Following their independence from Spain in 1821, the Central American provinces had been annexed to Iturbide’s ephemeral empire, a decision that immediately sparked civil conflict as regions like San Salvador and Granada resisted the move. By early 1823, Iturbide’s power and prestige were waning due to his arbitrary rule, which included the dismissal of the Mexican congress.123

After a revolt led by figures such as Antonio López de Santa Anna forced Iturbide to abdicate in March 1823, the political bond between the regions dissolved. With the empire failing, the new Mexican government allowed the Central American provinces to withdraw and organize their own independent state. Consequently, delegates from the region convened in Guatemala City in July 1823 to declare their complete independence and establish the United Provinces of Central America.1324