Harper Wallen: Exploring U.S. Involvement and Political Conflict in Nicaragua

The Inside the Volcano unit helped me introduce a pattern in the formation of many Latin American governments. Students were fascinated with the U.S. involvement in supplying arms and aid to rebel groups which allowed Americans to make money off of these developing countries. It also led into discussion of why so many Latin American governments are corrupt today, as the push and pull of international interests led them towards civil wars and uprisings. Inside the Volcano truly felt like a volcano as students witnessed the rising pressures and tensions in Nicaragua that have led to its volatile government. —Harper Wallen, Moscow Middle School, Moscow, Idaho