US Involvement in Nicaragua: From Filibusters to the Sandinistas and Beyond

Timeline of US–Nicaragua Relations

• 1850s: US backed filibuster William Walker's attempt to create a slave state.
• Early 1900s: Multiple military interventions to protect US business interests and prop up friendly governments.
• 1979: Sandinista (FSLN) revolution ousts Somoza dictatorship; US opposes socialist reforms.
• 1980s: US funds Contras (right-wing rebels) in brutal civil war; tens of thousands die.
• 1990: US-backed UNO coalition wins election; neoliberal reforms increase poverty.
• 2006: FSLN returns to power; expands social programs, improves US relations.
• Recent: Tensions over human rights, election integrity; US imposes sanctions.

The relationship remains complex and contested.