U.S.-engineered pact leads to Somoza family's rise

The rise of the Somoza family in Nicaragua can be traced back to a pivotal U.S.-engineered pact in 1927. This agreement was instrumental in establishing the Guardia Nacional, a military force designed to replace the U.S. Marines who had maintained a long-standing presence in the country. The formation of the Guardia Nacional marked a significant shift in Nicaragua's political landscape, allowing the Somoza family to consolidate power. By 1937, Anastasio Somoza García emerged as a dominant figure, gradually eliminating opposition and securing his family's control over the nation. The Somoza dynasty would go on to rule Nicaragua for a total of 43 nonconsecutive years throughout the 20th century, characterized by authoritarian governance and significant U.S. support. This period was marked by both economic development and widespread human rights abuses, leading to deep-seated resentment among the Nicaraguan populace. The legacy of the Somoza family remains a contentious chapter in Nicaragua's history, illustrating the complex interplay between U.S. foreign policy and local governance.