Overview of Scandal
What was the Iran-Contra scandal?
It involved the illegal sale of arms to Iran and illegal funding of the Contra rebels in Nicaragua.
Who was US president when it started?
Reagan
Why did the US sell arms to Iran?
To secure the release of American hostages held in Lebanon by Iran backed Hezbollah.
Why did the US support the Contras?
Reagan aimed to stop the spread of Communism in Latin America
Was president Reagan directly implicated?
He denied knowledge but other people involved were held accountable.
When did the scandal take place?
1981 to 1987
Who were the contras?
Nicaraguan rebel group fighting the Sandanista government who were Communists.
what types of weapons were sold to Iran?
Missiles and military equipment
what was the US policy of stopping the spread of communism called?
Containment
what was Ollie North's defense?
He was following orders and acting in the best interests of the country.
Why was the scandal controversial?
Violated laws against funding the
Contra's and arms sales violated the "we don't negotiate with terrorists" policy
What person negotiated the arms sales to Iran?
Ollie North
why was selling arms to Iran problematic?
Iran had an arms embargo and US had labeled it a state sponsor of terrorism.
What was the Boland Amendment?
Laws passed by Congress to prevent and restrict US aid to the Contras.
what were the consequences for Ollie North?
He was convicted on multiple charges but his convictions were later overturned on immunity issues.
What amendment was passed by congress to prevent funding of the Contras?
Boland Amendment
What did Robert McFarlane play?
As National security advisor he supported the arms for hostages deal and helped initiate it.
Did the arms sales achieve their goal?
Sort of. Only some of the hostages were released and more hostages were taken
How were the funds from the arms sales to Iran used to help the Contras?
The money was secretly diverted to purchase weapons and supplies for the Contras.
what was the tower commission?
A review board set up by Reagan to investigate the scandal
Were arms sales to Iran initially tied to funding the Contras?
No.
who uncovered the scandal?
Lebanese reporters and congressional hearings.
Which country helped facilitate the arms exchange?
Israel
Who managed the funds and logistics for the Contras?
Ollie North
how did it affect reagans presidency
Lost trust from people but did not affect his legacy