Who formed the Contras in 1980?
The Contras were formed by dissidents of the new Sandinista government and members of the former National Guard. These groups established the organization in 1980 to oppose the FSLN control of Managua.
Questions about Contras
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Ronald Reagan sign the directive authorizing CIA support for the Contras?
Ronald Reagan signed National Security Decision Directive 17 on the 4th of January 1982. This document gave the CIA authority to recruit and support the Contras with $19 million in military aid.
What was the largest Contra organization called and who led it?
The Nicaraguan Democratic Force or FDN emerged as the largest and most active Contra group. Enrique Bermudez served as its military commander while Adolfo Calero Portocarrero led its political directorate.
Why did the International Court of Justice rule against the United States in 1986?
The ICJ ruled that the U.S. violated international law and a 1956 treaty by supporting the Contras and mining Nicaragua's harbors. The court found the U.S. encouraged acts contrary to humanitarian law through guerrilla warfare manuals.
How did the Contra war end in 1990?
Contra forces agreed to voluntary demobilization starting in early December 1989 following negotiations with the Sandinista government. Violeta Chamorro won the February 1990 elections and assumed presidency from Daniel Ortega on the 25th of April 1990.