There were actually two presidents of Nicaragua in 1979, depending on when exactly you’re asking about.
- Anastasio Somoza Debayle was president from 1974 until July 17th, 1979. He was the last leader of the Somoza dynasty, which had ruled Nicaragua for over 40 years. His family’s rule was characterized by corruption, repression, and close ties to the United States.
- Daniel Ortega became president on July 19th, 1979, after leading the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) to victory in the Nicaraguan Revolution. The FSLN overthrew Somoza’s dictatorship and established a socialist government. Ortega served as president until 1990, and then again from 2007 to the present day.
So, it’s important to specify which president you’re interested in when talking about Nicaragua in 1979.