In the annals of history, there are stories that resonate with resilience, defiance, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. “Nicaragua: A Nation’s Right to Survive,” a 1983 documentary by John Pilger, unravels the compelling narrative of a small nation’s battle for survival in the face of adversity. It is a tale that delves deep into the heart of Central America, exposing the rampant corruption that plagued the region.
In 1979, Nicaragua witnessed a remarkable moment in its history when the Sandinistas, with widespread popular support, triumphed over decades of the corrupt Somoza dictatorship, which had enjoyed the backing of the United States. The Sandinistas’ ideology drew inspiration from the principles of the English Co-operative Movement, fostering a spirit of reform and progress. However, their aspirations for reform proved to be too “radical” for the Reagan administration, setting the stage for a conflict that would become a focal point in the struggle for justice and self-determination.
John Pilger’s documentary, “Nicaragua: A Nation’s Right to Survive,” becomes a portal to a bygone era when idealism and the pursuit of a better future collided with the harsh realities of political power and global influence. Through this film, Pilger illuminates the achievements of the Sandinistas and their role as a beacon of hope, a “threat of a good example” that challenged the established order.