What is Manuel Noriega know for?

Manuel Antonio Noriega Moreno (February 11, 1934–May 29, 2017) was a Panamanian military dictator and politician who served as de facto leader of Panama from 1983 to 1989.

1. De facto leader of Panama: Noriega was the de facto leader of Panama from 1983 to 1989, although he never officially held the title of president. He rose to power through a military coup and maintained control through a combination of military force, political manipulation, and corruption.

2. Military career: Noriega began his military career in the Panamanian National Guard in 1962 and quickly rose through the ranks. He became the commander of the National Guard in 1983, effectively making him the most powerful person in Panama.

3. Association with the United States: Noriega was closely aligned with the United States during the Cold War and received significant military and financial aid from the US government. However, his relationship with the US soured in the late 1980s due to his involvement in drug trafficking and other criminal activities.

4. US invasion of Panama: In December 1989, the United States invaded Panama to remove Noriega from power. The invasion, known as Operation Just Cause, was successful and Noriega was captured and taken to the United States.

5. Drug trafficking: Noriega was involved in drug trafficking and was indicted by a US grand jury on drug-related charges in 1988. He was convicted in absentia and sentenced to 40 years in prison.

6. Human rights abuses: Noriega's regime was responsible for numerous human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and political repression.

7. Death: Noriega died of complications from a brain tumor on May 29, 2017, while serving his prison sentence in the United States.