Question 3 of 5
Why did the United States invade Panama in December 1989?
A.
The Central American nation harbored former communist dictators.
B.
Communist dictators had diverted enormous funds to banks in that nation.
C.
A communist revolution in that country threatened the agenda of the Bush administration.
D.
Its dictator, Manuel Noriega, refused to step down after losing a legitimate election.
D. Its dictator, Manuel Noriega, refused to step down after losing a legitimate election.
The correct answer is D. Its dictator, Manuel Noriega, refused to step down after losing a legitimate election.
To find the answer to this question, you can start by researching the United States' invasion of Panama in December 1989. This event is commonly known as Operation Just Cause.
During this time, Manuel Noriega, the dictator of Panama, was in power. He had been involved in various illegal activities, including drug trafficking and money laundering. The United States had previously supported Noriega, but his actions became a concern for American national security.
In 1989, Panama was accused of becoming a sanctuary and transit point for drug trafficking, particularly involving Colombian cartels. The United States believed that Noriega's regime was compromising regional stability and endangering American interests.
Additionally, there were claims that Noriega was involved in electoral fraud to maintain his power. The Panamanian elections held in May 1989 were deemed unfair by many observers, which further fueled the political tension.
Therefore, the answer to the question "Why did the United States invade Panama in December 1989?" is:
D. Its dictator, Manuel Noriega, refused to step down after losing a legitimate election.