The Military Dictatorships of Latin America

The military dictatorships of Latin America were periods when armed forces took direct control of governments, often through coups, bypassing democratic processes. These regimes typically justified their rule as necessary to restore stability amid political chaos or economic crises. They often suppressed political opposition, restricted freedoms, and violated human rights, including torture and disappearances. Such dictatorships occurred mainly between the 1950s and 1980s in countries like Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay. Though some transitioned to democratic governance later, these regimes left lasting impacts on their societies and institutions.