This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book deals with Guatemala's modern history, beginning with the Revolution of 1944-1954; this in turn forms the background for understanding contemporary Guatemala. It addresses the theoretical issues with a view toward suggesting the case to which new realities require new theories or modification of older theories. The book begins from an understanding of the social categories growing out of the productive structure; but this does not mean that class is always the dominant factor. It focuses on Guatemala's current development is a product of the combination of economic growth and economic crisis since the early 1970s. The specific class questions in Guatemala are made much more explosive by their intersection with ethnic divisions. The illegitimacy of the ruling coalition and the refusal to permit reformist options has left political space for a revolutionary guerrilla movement.