Nicaragua

Nicaragua and other Central American colonies gain their independence from the Spanish Crown.

Apr 15, 1821

Nicaragua and other Central American colonies gain their independence from the Spanish Crown.

Clayton-Bulwer Treaty

Apr 1, 1850

The United States and Great Britain sign the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty without Nicaraguan consent. They are granted access to an inter-oceanic trade route through Nicaraguan territory.

U.S. forces withdraw from Nicaragua

Apr 23, 1925

When U.S. forces withdraw from Nicaragua, rebellions ensue; and the marines return to quell the disturbances.

Anastasio Somoza as Commander of the National Guard

Apr 12, 1934

The U.S. withdraws again, leaving Nicaraguan military officer, Anastasio Somoza as Commander of the National Guard

Somoza sends mercenary forces to Guatemala to help U.S. forces oust socialist president, Jacobo Arbenz.

Apr 12, 1954

Somoza sends mercenary forces to Guatemala to help U.S. forces oust socialist president, Jacobo Arbenz.

President Ortega agrees to the first round of peace talks with Contra leaders. A temporary truce is reached in March.

Feb 6, 1988

Nicaragua is a disaster zone, ravaged by civil war and the onslaught of Hurricane Hugo. President Ortega agrees to the first round of peace talks with Contra leaders. A temporary truce is reached in March.

Somoza is decreed president of Nicaragua.

Apr 8, 2012

Somoza is decreed president of Nicaragua.