Dominican Republic Occupation
The Dominican Republic Occupation (1916–1924) began amid political instability, internal conflict, and concerns over foreign influence in the Caribbean. U.S. Marines landed to restore order, oversee government finances, and protect American strategic and economic interests during a period of civil unrest. During the occupation, U.S. authorities reorganized the Dominican military, improved infrastructure, and implemented administrative reforms, but they also faced armed resistance from Dominican insurgents known as gavilleros. The occupation ended in 1924 with the restoration of Dominican self-governance, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s political development and U.S.–Caribbean relations.