Turning the Tide: United States Intervention in Central America and the Struggle for Peace The book "Turning the Tide: United States Intervention in Central America and the Struggle for Peace" delves into the complex history of US intervention in Central America, from the early 1980s to the present day, and explores how these actions have impacted the region's struggle for peace and stability. The author, a renowned expert in the field, provides a comprehensive analysis of the political, economic, and social factors that have shaped this tumultuous region, highlighting the role of US intervention in both hindering and promoting peace and development. The book begins by examining the Cold War-era policies that fueled US involvement in Central America, including the funding of military dictators and the support of anti-communist forces. The author argues that these actions not only contributed to the region's instability but also undermined the potential for lasting peace and prosperity. As the Soviet Union collapsed, the US shifted its focus to combating drug trafficking and maintaining access to strategic resources, leading to a series of military interventions and covert operations that have had far-reaching consequences. One of the most significant aspects of the book is the discussion of the US-backed Contra war in Nicaragua, which lasted from 1981 to 1989. The author describes how the Contras, who were armed and trained by the CIA, waged a brutal campaign against the leftist Sandinista government, leading to widespread human rights abuses and the deaths of thousands of civilians.

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