The Third Current of Revolution

A new aspect of low-intensity conflict can be seen today in El Salvador, where the decade-long insurgency appears able to continue without aid from traditional sources in Cuba and East Europe. The Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN) made its debut in 1980, but not before a private support network was established in the U.S. and other western countries to provide funds and political support for its struggle to overthrow the Salvadoran government. The FMLN is the most sophisticated guerrilla force in Latin American history. Raising millions of dollars, the FMLN relies on a well-oiled propaganda machine run by American supporters to pressure Congress to weaken the Salvadoran government. Utilizing front groups, churches, and public figures, the FMLN's private network has stymied policymakers in Washington and San Salvador. This book illuminates this new dimension of low-intensity conflict that will confound the U.S. and its allies in the decade to come.