10427. THE CATHOLIC CHURCH AND THE NICARAGUAN REVOLUTION. The development of Catholic radicalism was a startling change in a region where the Catholic Church had for centuries been a leading defender of the status quo. Motivational and historical factors leading to the emergence of radical positions, such as Liberation Theology, among Catholics in Nicaragua and other Latin American countries are examined. It is concluded that neither motivational theory nor historical trends can fully account for the decisions of individuals. 22 pages, 27 footnotes, 9 bibliographic sources.