Unveiling the Hidden History: Miskitu Indians and the Nicaraguan State 1894-1987

Resistance and Contradiction: Miskitu Indians and the Nicaraguan State, 1894-1987

by Mark Smith

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4119 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	326 pages

FREE

For over a century, the indigenous Miskitu people of Nicaragua have fought for their identity, land rights, and self-determination. Their struggle has been intertwined with Nicaragua's turbulent history, from colonial oppression to revolutionary upheaval and the bloody Contra War.

Now, in "Miskitu Indians and the Nicaraguan State 1894-1987," historian Dr. Thomas B. Anderson unveils the untold story of the Miskitu people's quest for recognition and autonomy.

Colonial Roots of Conflict

The Miskitu, originally from present-day Honduras, migrated to the Atlantic coast of Nicaragua in the 18th century. They established a loose confederacy with British traders, which led to tensions with the Spanish colonial government.

In 1844, Nicaragua declared independence and claimed sovereignty over the Miskitu territory. However, the Miskitu resisted, maintaining their alliance with the British and seeking recognition as an autonomous region.

Zelandia and British Patronage

In 1860, the Miskitu established the Mosquito Shore reserve, known as Zelandia, under British protection. This arrangement granted the Miskitu a degree of self-governance but also exposed them to British imperialism.

British patronage came at a cost. The Miskitu were forced to cede land to British settlers and faced pressure to abandon their traditional customs and convert to Protestantism.

Nicaraguan Annexation and American Intervention

In 1894, Nicaragua annexed Zelandia, incorporating the Miskitu territory into the national state. This act violated the Miskitu's rights and sparked a decades-long struggle for autonomy.

In 1907, the United States intervened in Nicaragua, establishing a protectorate that lasted until 1933. During this period, the Miskitu's land rights were further eroded, and they faced forced relocation.

Sandinista Revolution and Autonomy

The 1979 Sandinista Revolution promised a new era for indigenous rights. In 1987, the Nicaraguan government granted the Miskitu autonomy within the Atlantic Coast region.

This autonomy law recognized the Miskitu's right to self-governance, land ownership, and cultural preservation. However, the implementation of autonomy faced challenges, including the Contra War and ongoing disputes over land and resource rights.

Contra War and Human Rights Abuses

In the 1980s, the United States-backed Contra rebels waged a war against the Sandinista government. The war had a devastating impact on the Miskitu, who were caught in the crossfire.

Both the Contras and the Sandinistas committed human rights abuses against the Miskitu, including forced displacement, torture, and extrajudicial killings.

Post-War and Current Challenges

After the Contra War, the Miskitu faced continued challenges, including poverty, deforestation, and land disputes. Despite the autonomy law, they still struggle to fully exercise their rights.

In recent years, there have been efforts to strengthen Miskitu autonomy and promote economic development in the Atlantic Coast region. However, the Miskitu's struggle for recognition and self-determination continues.

"Miskitu Indians and the Nicaraguan State 1894-1987" sheds light on the little-known but important story of the Miskitu people. Dr. Anderson's meticulous research brings to life the Miskitu's centuries-long struggle for autonomy, exposing the complexities and challenges they have faced.

This book is an invaluable resource for understanding the history of indigenous rights in Nicaragua and the ongoing struggle for autonomy in the face of colonialism, revolution, war, and globalization.

Resistance and Contradiction: Miskitu Indians and the Nicaraguan State, 1894-1987

by Mark Smith

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4119 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	326 pages

FREE