The biggest reason the United States was criticized for sending military aid to Central America in the 1980s was Central American countries were not allies of the United States. people felt diplomacy would have worked better than force. citizens were not grateful for the assistance. Central American countries were not democratic.

The Correct answer is Option D) Central American countries were not democratic.

The American national policy consisted of ensuring that the United States had significant influence in South America.

This led the government to support local rebels, militias and even dictatorships. Many of these dictators were accused of numerous human rights including jailing of journalists, killing political foes etc.

The United States was citicized for sending military aid to these dictators, while at the same time, trying to promote democracy in other parts of the world.

Central American countries were not democratic.