Remembering the Sandinistas in Nicaragua

From the 1960s onward, Nicaragua lived under the rule of the Somoza dictatorship. That is until the Sandinista National Liberation Front rose up to overthrow it in 1978–79.

During the civil war that followed, Nicaragua turned into one of the major proxy war sites of the Cold War. While the Sandinistas received military aid from the Soviet Union, the United States supported right-wing counter-revolutionaries known as the Contras.

Daniel Ortega © Mattmcinnis | Dreamstime

Tens of thousands of people died during the war, and the effects are still felt across Nicaragua. In 1990, a right-wing government formed, but in 2006 Sandinista Daniel Ortega returned to power.

Left-wing icons are often seen across the country, including a huge memorial to deceased Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez in the capital of Managua. There are several important sites for those who want to learn more about the Sandinistas.

Augusto Cesar Sandino Street Art, Nicaragua © Francisco L. Franco | Flickr

The city of Leon was a hotbed of revolutionary activity, with a strong student population, and today it plays host to the Museum of the Revolution. Inside are books, photos and other artifacts which offer an idea of what life was like inside the revolutionary movement.

All around the city of Leon you will find references to revolutionary history, from murals and street art to locals with stories to tell. If you want to get a window into the violent history of Nicaragua, this is the best place to do so.

Central America may be friendlier than ever for tourists, but it is important to recognize the region’s troubled past.