-
Somoza Garcia's Government of Family
Following his gaining the office of president, Somoza Garcia began appointing his family members and close supporters as officials in the government. In doing so, he gained control of all the branches of the government, and, thus, he had absolute power. He did allow a small opposition but only to the extent that they did not pose a legitimate threat to his monopoly on power. This allowed him to declare an extension of his presidential term for an additional eight years. -
Somoza Garcia Supports Allied Powers
During World War II, Somoza Garcia chose for Nicaragua to support the Allied Powers, rather than the Axis Powers. In doing so, he gained the support of the United States economically. Exports of raw materials, to the United States, increased, and Nicaragua was able to increase their military capabilities. However, this created an economic dependence of Nicaragua on the United States unintentionally. -
Somoza Garcia Controls the Presidency
After being pressured not to run for reelection, Leonardo Arguello was elected president in 1947. However, after Garcia realized that Arguello would not pose as president and allow him to truly control the presidency, Garcia replaced him with another family member, Benjamin Lacayo Sacasa, a month into Arguello's term. This demonstrated Garcia's tight control over Nicaragua's government, even without the presidency. -
Samoza Debayle Signs Kupia-Kumi Pact
This pact installed a three member junta to serve over Nicaragua from 1972 to 1974. It was created in response to opposition due to decreasing social conditions, such as illiteracy, poverty, and hunger. -
Samoza Debayle's Response to Earthquake
In December of 1972, an earthquake occurred in Nicaragua, greatly damaging the capital city. Looting occurred immediately following the quake, and the National Guard participated in it. The poor response and lack of aid by Somoza's government caused further loss of support.
