The Nicaraguan Revolution: History and Impact

Overview

The Nicaraguan Revolution was a decades-long struggle aimed at liberating Nicaragua from U.S. imperialism and the Somoza dictatorship. Initiated in the 1960s by the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN), the revolution culminated in the overthrow of the Somoza regime in 1979 and lasted until 1990 when the Sandinistas lost power.

Key Facts

• Initiation: Began in the early 1960s by the FSLN
• Climax: Major fighting from 1978-1979
• End: Sandinistas lost power in February 1990
• Location: Nicaragua
• Key Figures: Anastasio Somoza Debayle, Nicaraguan National Guard, Sandinistas (FSLN)

Historical Context

• Somoza Dictatorship: Began in 1937 with Anastasio Somoza García, who came to power via the U.S.-trained National Guard. His family ruled until 1979.
• Corruption: The National Guard engaged in corrupt activities similar to organized crime.
• U.S. Involvement: The U.S. had military interests in Nicaragua.

Emergence of FSLN

• Founding: Established in 1961 by Carlos Fonseca, Silvio Mayorga, and Tomás Borge.
• Inspiration: Influenced by the Cuban Revolution and Augusto César Sandino’s anti-imperialist legacy.
• Goals: To end U.S. imperialism and establish a socialist regime.

Increasing Opposition

• 1972 Earthquake: Corruption in aid distribution fueled dissent.
• Recruitment: FSLN gained support from youth and businessmen.
• 1974 Attack: The FSLN took hostages, forcing the release of prisoners and ransom payment.

Final Phase of the Revolution

• 1978 Unity Efforts: FSLN factions, under Daniel Ortega, unified with backing from Fidel Castro.
• National Uprising: Began on September 9, 1978, with coordinated city attacks.
• International Reaction: U.S. President Carter and international bodies condemned human rights violations.

Triumph and Outcome

• Final Victory: July 17, 1979, Somoza fled Nicaragua; Sandinistas took control on July 19.
• Impact: The revolution resulted in the deaths of 50,000 people, or 2% of the population.
• Post-Revolution Government: Established a mixed public-private economic model and significantly reduced illiteracy.

U.S. Response and Contra War

• Carter Administration: Initially supportive, offering aid with human rights stipulations.
• Reagan Administration: Cut off aid and funded Contra forces leading to the Iran-Contra affair.
• Consequences: Diverted resources from social programs, contributing to the Sandinistas' 1990 loss of power.

Legacy

• Benefits: Improved quality of life, reduced illiteracy.
• Challenges: The FSLN's short tenure limited societal transformation.
• Return to Power: The FSLN returned to power in 2006 under Daniel Ortega, who has since been criticized for authoritarianism and corruption.

Sources

• U.S. Department of State
• Nicaragua: Emerging from the Shadow of the Eagle by Thomas Walker and Christine Wade