Nicaragua Leading up to Somoza Garcia

  • Establishment of Elite

    Establishment of Elite
    In the city of Leon, a liberal elite formed in favor of free trade, and in Granada a conservative elite in support of protectionism formed. The two engaged in armed conflict, causing much civil unrest for decades.
  • Nicaraguan Independence

    Nicaraguan Independence
    Nicaragua formally declares independence from the United Provinces of Central America, though have a very weak federal government because of it that causes the England and America to step in, in an attempt to extend their spheres of influence to Nicaragua.
  • Walker Affair

    Walker Affair
    An American soldier named William Walker takes over Nicaragua. He declares himself president of Nicaragua, with the intent of establishing the country as a privately controlled English-speaking colony in which slavery would be legalized.
  • Expulsion of William Walker

    Expulsion of William Walker
    William Walker, with the help of the Britain and the U.S., is exiled from Latin America. He continued to try to enter Latin American countries in the future despite his exile. The Walker Affair leaves a poor legacy in Nicaragua that would lead to future unrest and conflict.
  • Zelaya Assumes Power

    Zelaya Assumes Power
    Jose Santos Zelaya, a liberal candidate, was elected as President of Nicaragua. Although a ruthless dictator, he was responsible for increasing the country's exports, nationalizing industries, and modernizing infrastructure.
  • Zelaya Driven Out of Office

    Zelaya Driven Out of Office
    With the help and support of U.S. marines, Zelaya is driven out of office after serving for 16 years. This event perpetuates the U.S.'s future role in Latin American intervention, especially in Nicaragua.
  • Marines Withdrawn

    Marines Withdrawn
    President Herbert Hoover withdraws all marines from Nicaragua due to increased isolationist sentiments because of pending threats from Germany and Japan.
  • Sandino Assassinated

    Sandino Assassinated
    Augusto Cesar Sandino, the leader of the guerrilla campaign against military presence in Nicaragua, was assassinated on the orders of General Anastasio Somoza Garcia, the National Guard commander. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/country_profiles/1225283.stm This source originates from the British Broadcasting Corporation, meaning that it may tend to swing left on political issues. This information comes directly from their country profiles page which includes country-specific timelines.
  • Rise of Somoza Garcia

    Rise of Somoza Garcia
    Somoza Garcia, a member of the Nationalist Liberal Party, is elected as President of Nicaragua. He continues on until his term ends before declaring himself as dictator thereafter. His family lead a dynasty-style period of rule that lasted 44 years.