Ser and estar

Question

I’d like to see a comparison of using both to speak about the past

Silvia Píriz · Accepted Answer

Hola phredwatson L.,
This is actually not so much a question of tense, but of usage. The difference between ser and estar remains the same whether you are talking in the present, past or future.
For example, ser is used for identity, characteristics, origin, time, etc., while estar is used for states, conditions, emotions and location. The past tense simply places those descriptions or states in the past.
You may find these lessons useful for comparing both verbs and understanding their different uses.
¡Buen finde!
Silvia