Image for Coup d'état

Coup d'état

A coup d'état, often called a coup, is the sudden, illegal overthrow of a government, typically by a small group, often from within the military or other state institutions. Unlike a revolution, which usually involves mass public support, a coup is usually carried out quickly and without widespread popular backing, often to seize power for political or military reasons. Coups can lead to significant political instability and conflict, as they disrupt established order and may provoke resistance from the ousted government or its supporters.

Additional Insights

  • Image for Coup d'état

    A coup d'état is a sudden and often illegal seizure of power from a government, typically carried out by a small group, such as military leaders or political insiders. Unlike a revolution, which involves mass participation and aims for broader social change, a coup generally seeks to replace the existing leadership without widespread public involvement. Coups can destabilize nations, leading to political turmoil, violence, and shifts in power, and they may occur when leaders are perceived as ineffective or when there are significant social or economic crises.