The Sandinistas, or the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN), is a socialist political party in Nicaragua that overthrew the Somoza dictatorship in 1979 and held power from 1979 to 1990.
Think of the Sandinistas as a football team that managed to win the championship against a reigning champion team (the Somoza dictatorship). They then had control of the league (Nicaragua) for several seasons (years).
Somoza Dynasty: A line of dictators in Nicaragua, lasting from 1936 until their overthrow by the Sandinistas in 1979.
Daniel Ortega: A leader of the Sandinista movement who served as President of Nicaragua during and after the time of the Sandinistas' rule.
Revolutionary Government Junta of National Reconstruction: The governing body established by the FSLN after they overthrew Somoza. It ruled Nicaragua from 1979-1985.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.