Nicaragua, republic and largest nation in Central America. Called "the land of lakes and volcanoes," Nicaragua contains regions of thick rain forests, rugged highlands, and fertile farming areas. The largest lakes in Central America and a chain of volcanic peaks dominate its western heartland, the center of its population and economy. Severe earthquakes have destroyed Managua, its capital and largest city, twice in the 20th century. With a population of more than 4.2 million, Nicaragua is …showed first 75 words of 10146 total…

…showed last 75 words of 10146 total…Chamorro administration. The election was closely monitored by international observers, who pronounced the voting fair and honest, despite some technical problems. Alemán was elected, and although Ortega and the FSLN challenged the results, they were unable to reverse them. In January 1997, Alemán was inaugurated as president, marking the first time in Nicaraguan history that two consecutive elections had produced a peaceful transfer of power between rival parties.