Timeline: Central America quest 12

Feb 28, 1502

Christopher Columbus became the first European to visit coast of Central America

In 1502, Christopher Columbus becomes the first European to visit the coast of Central America.

Feb 28, 1522

1522 The first Spanish explorers, led by Gil Gonzalez de Avila, arrive and establish colonies in what is now Nicaragua

In 1522, first Spanish explorers, led by Gil Gonzalez de Avila, arrive and establish colonies in what is now Nicaragua.

Feb 28, 1856

1856-57, William walker becomes involved in the civil war and more, declares himself president.

In 1856–57, American William Walker becomes involved in the civil war and seizes control of Nicaragua, declares himself president, and legalizes slavery

Feb 28, 1857

1857 Walker is driven out of Central America, the civil war ends, and Nicaragua forms a new government

In 1857, William Walker was driven out of Central America, the civil war ends, and Nicaragua forms a new government.

Feb 28, 1893

1893, José Santos Zelaya takes control of the country and more

In 1893 General José Santos Zelaya takes control of the country, setting up a dictatorship and keeping a tense relationship with the United States.

Feb 28, 1909

1909, Zelaya was removed from power

In 1909, A revolt breaks out and Zelaya is removed from power

Feb 28, 1927

1927, Augusto César Sandino launches attacks on U.S. troops in Nicaragua

In 1927, Augusto César Sandino launches attacks on U.S. troops in Nicaragua, hoping to encourage them to leave.

Feb 28, 1936

1936, General Somoza becomes President

In 1936, General Somoza becomes president, starting the 43-year Somoza dictatorship.

Feb 28, 1956

1956, General Somoza was assassinated

In 1956 General Somoza is assassinated, after he was president, his son, Luis Somoza Debayle becomes president, continuing his father’s tradition of corruption and strict control of the country.

Feb 28, 2016