Pinochet's regime

Augusto Pinochet led a military coup in Chile in 1973, overthrowing the democratically elected government. His regime was marked by authoritarian rule, widespread human rights violations—including torture, disappearances, and repression of political opponents—and economic reforms that shifted Chile towards free-market policies. Pinochet maintained power until 1990, using military force and suppression to silence dissent. While some credited his economic policies with modernizing Chile’s economy, his era is also remembered for its brutal repression and disregard for political freedoms. The regime's legacy remains controversial, symbolizing a complex mix of economic change and human rights abuses.