the Pinochet coup

The Pinochet coup occurred in Chile on September 11, 1973, when General Augusto Pinochet led a military overthrow of the democratically elected government of President Salvador Allende. Citing economic instability and political unrest, the military used force, including bombing the presidential palace, to seize power. The coup ended democratic rule and initiated a brutal dictatorship characterized by human rights abuses, suppression of opposition, and economic reforms. Pinochet remained in power until 1990, transforming Chile's political landscape and leaving a lasting impact on its society and institutions.