Pinochet (Augusto Pinochet)

Augusto Pinochet (1915–2006) was a Chilean military general who led a coup in 1973, overthrowing President Salvador Allende. As dictator until 1990, Pinochet’s regime was marked by authoritarian rule, suppression of political opponents, and human rights abuses—including imprisonment and torture. He implemented economic reforms that shifted Chile toward free-market policies, which contributed to both growth and inequality. His leadership remains controversial: some credit him with stabilizing Chile’s economy, while others condemn his repression and violation of civil liberties. Pinochet’s legacy continues to provoke debate over authoritarianism, economic policy, and human rights.