NICARAGUA: Tacho's Close Call

After narrowly escaping assassination last week, Nicaragua's durable Dictator Anastasio ("Tacho") Somoza smashed what appeared to be the best-organized conspiracy to overthrow him since he grabbed power 20 years ago.

Aided by members of the reactivated Caribbean Legion, who crossed the border from Costa Rica for the purpose, Nicaraguan rebels planned to ambush Tacho after a reception at the U.S. embassy residence outside Managua. When a party guest happened to notice suspicious movements outside the residence, and Tacho's troops rushed to investigate, the ambushers fled. Next day. one plotter lost his nerve...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!