Manuel Noriega and his impact on the events in Panama from 1981 to 1989

Abstract

Manuel Noriega shaped the fate of the Panamanians for eight years. After the death of Omar Torrijos, Noriega became the de facto ruler of Panama. He was not the elected leader, notwith-standing his policy affected every citizen. His illicit activities led to social and political unrest in Panama and were the causes for the American intervention in the country in December 1989. The aim of the article is analyse if it was really necessary for the Americans to apply military action in Panama and why, for many years, the USA accepted the activities of Noriega. It is essential to know whether Panama itself could deal with the internal problems and why the people were dissatisfied with the rule of Manuel Noriega. The 1980s in Panama can be treated as a lost decade. The economic measures employed by the United States managed to deteriorate the industry of Panama. The outcome of the invasion is also significant – the loss of lives, homelessness and lootings. The article presents, step by step, what led to the American interven-tion in Panama and how Manuel Noriega deceived both the Panamanians and the American authorities to remain in power