General Anastasio Somoza García was a Nicaraguan military leader and politician who served as the President of Nicaragua from 1937 until his assassination in 1956. He came to power through a coup and established a dictatorship that relied on a strong military presence and political repression. His regime was marked by corruption and favoritism, benefiting his family and allies. Somoza's rule was characterized by significant economic growth, but it also led to widespread discontent among the Nicaraguan people. His government faced opposition from various groups, including the Sandinista National Liberation Front, which ultimately contributed to his downfall and the rise of a revolutionary movement in Nicaragua.