The Nicaraguan Civil War, which lasted from 1981 to 1990, was a conflict between the Sandinista government and the Contra rebels. The Sandinistas, a leftist group, came to power after overthrowing the Somoza dictatorship in 1979. The Contras, supported by the United States, opposed the Sandinista policies and aimed to restore a more conservative government. The war resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction in Nicaragua. It also drew international attention, with various countries taking sides. The conflict officially ended with a peace agreement in 1990, leading to democratic elections and a transition of power.