Patriotic Military Service
Beginning in 1983, all men between the ages of 16 and 25 were required to spend a minimum of two years in Patriotic Military Service (SMP), the first draft ever imposed on Nicaraguan citizens.
These official Sandinista posters depict a positive and patriotic view of the draft as a necessary evil in the battles against U.S. imperialism, to ensure a democratic and equitable society that strengthened the achievements of the Sandinista Revolution in such areas as health and education. However, it is important to note that many Nicaraguans strongly opposed what they referred to as the “Mandatory Military Service.” Although many Nicaraguans voluntarily and enthusiastically signed up for the Patriotic Military Service, many others opposed the SMP and questioned if they would ever be truly free from violence.