
South American coups
South American coups are sudden, often military-led takeovers of government that disrupt democratic processes. They typically occur when military or political factions oppose the current leadership due to political instability, economic issues, or corruption. Historically, many countries in the region experienced coups during the 20th century, resulting in authoritarian regimes or shifts in power. While some coups aimed to restore order, others suppressed democratic freedoms. Today, coups are less common, with most countries in South America committed to maintaining democratic governance. These events highlight challenges in political stability and governance, influenced by complex social, economic, and historical factors.