It was founded during the 19th century, as Nicaragua established itself as an independent republic, by members of the elite of Granada.

As in many Latin American countries, a major political conflict took place between conservatives and liberals.

During the 1840s and 1850s a nearly constant civil war took place between conservatives and liberals in Nicaragua.

The conservative party returned to power in 1910, following the intervention of American troops.

At the legislative elections, held on 4 November 2001, the party won 2.1% of the popular vote and 2 out of 90 seats in the National Assembly.