Contras
Definition
The Contras were a right-wing rebel group in Nicaragua that opposed the socialist Sandinistas. They were notably funded by the U.S. government during the Reagan administration.
Analogy
Consider the Contras as a rival team trying to take back control of the football league (Nicaragua) from current champions (the Sandinistas). They're getting significant financial backing from a wealthy sponsor (the U.S.) who wants to see them win.
Related terms
Iran-Contra Affair: A scandal during Reagan administration where senior officials secretly facilitated sale of arms to Iran, which was under an arms embargo, and used proceeds to fund Contras in Nicaragua.
Oliver North: A National Security Council staff member during Reagan administration implicated in Iran-Contra affair.
Boland Amendment: Legislation passed by U.S. Congress that aimed to limit U.S. government assistance to Contra rebels in Nicaragua.
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