united States
"Eventually, the world learned of Reagan’s actions regarding the Iranian arms deals through a Lebanese newspaper and a great deal of questioning arose. Though Reagan denied any knowledge of what was occurring in Nicaragua, Mr. North stated that both Reagan and his Vice President Bush knew of the events and their cover-up. As of yet, there has been no evidence which connects Reagan and the contra scandal...Overall, the entire event was a blow to Congress and its ability to oversee all of its departments. Additionally, Reagan lost face with his public as many were upset about his dealing with terrorists."
-Cold War Museum
In 1983, Congress prohibited the aiding of the Contras in the fight against the Sandinistas. Ronald Reagan and his aides decided that they would divert funds to fuel the Nicaragua revolutionists, despite their bloody history consisting of torture, the burning of civilian houses, and kidnappings.
"President Reagan said today that he had not been in full control of his Administration's Iran policy, and the White House said that as a consequence up to $30 million intended to pay for American arms had been secretly diverted to rebel forces in Nicaragua." "The deception and disdain for the law invited comparisons to Watergate, undermined Mr. Reagan's credibility and severely weakened his powers of persuasion with Congress. Scrutiny of his appointees increased; Supreme Court nominees were rejected or withdrawn; and more of his aides were accused of ethics violations than in any other administration up until that point." The Iran-Contra Affair made major headlines in the United States, and made the cover of numerous TIME magazine covers, with Oliver North being the face of the scandal.
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