Elías Wessin y Wessin facts for kids
Elías Wessin y Wessin (born July 22, 1924 – died April 18, 2009) was a Dominican politician and a Dominican Air Force general. Wessin was involved in a military coup in 1963. This coup removed Dominican President Juan Bosch from power. Wessin was also a key figure in the Dominican Civil War that followed. This war led to the United States military getting involved in the Dominican Republic in 1965.
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Early Life of Elías Wessin y Wessin
Elías Wessin y Wessin was born in Bayaguana, Monte Plata Province, Dominican Republic. His birthday was on July 22, 1924. His parents had moved to the Dominican Republic from Dekwaneh, a town in Lebanon. The family name in Lebanon is often spelled Wazen today.
Wessin started his career in the Dominican Air Force. He began as a military pilot.
Elías Wessin y Wessin's Career
Wessin first became involved in Dominican politics in 1961. This happened after President Rafael Trujillo was assassinated. Trujillo had been a dictator. Wessin was in charge of an infantry battalion at the time. He helped Trujillo's wife and family leave the country.
During the Dominican Civil War, Wessin chose to stay in his position. He did not want the rebels, who he believed were pro-communist, to take control of the country. This was one reason why the United States supported Wessin's forces. They did not support Francisco Caamaño, who was acting for Juan Bosch.
Wessin was allowed to return from exile in 1978. This was after the government announced a general amnesty. He later became friends with his former political rival, President Joaquín Balaguer. Wessin actively supported Balaguer during the 1986 Dominican Republic presidential election. Because of his support, Wessin served in Balaguer's government. He was the country's interior minister and later the Secretary of the Armed Forces.
Wessin was featured on the cover of Time magazine. This happened on May 7, 1965.
Death of Elías Wessin y Wessin
Elías Wessin y Wessin passed away on April 18, 2009. He was 84 years old. He died from a heart attack in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He was survived by his wife, Livia Chávez, and their two sons.
See also
In Spanish: Elías Wessin y Wessin para niños
