Around The World
Nicaragua Timeline
Travel through our timeline of major events in Nicaragua's history.
500
People settle in the region.1522
Gil Gonzalez Davila, a Spanish explorer, names Nicaragua for Nicarao, a local chief.1524
Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba completes the Spanish conquest of Nicaragua.1821
Nicaragua declares independence from Spain and joins the Mexican Empire. In 1823, it becomes part of the United Provinces of Central America.1838
Nicaragua becomes fully independent.1893
General Jose Santos Zelaya takes control. In 1909, U.S. troops help overthrow him.1937
General Anastasio Somoza Garcia becomes president. His family holds power for more than 40 years.1972
An earthquake in Managua kills 5,000 to 10,000 people.
GETTY IMAGES
1979
A rebel group called the Sandinistas overthrows the government. President Anastasio Somoza Debayle flees the country.1981
The U.S. suspends aid to Nicaragua and supports fighters known as Contras. Fighting continues until 1988.1984
Sandinista leader Daniel Ortega is elected president. The Sandinistas rule for six years.
JAIRO CAINA—AFP/GETTY IMAGES
1988
Hurricane Joan leaves 180,000 people homeless. Hurricane Mitch kills thousands and further weakens the economy in 1998.
YURI CORTEZ—AFP/GETTY IMAGES