Augusto Pinochet in Chile for AP World History

Feb 14

2 min read

Augusto Pinochet in Chile is an illustrative example of the Global Resistance to Existing Power Structures topic in Unit 8 of AP World History. You could reference this example on your AP World History test.

Pinochet with Jimmy Carter — Pinochet with President Carter/public domain

Augusto Pinochet ascended to power through a military coup on September 11, 1973, overthrowing the democratically elected government of President Salvador Allende. Backed by the United States, Pinochet’s forces seized control in a bid to curb what they perceived as growing leftist influence and economic instability under Allende’s socialist government. The coup marked the beginning of Pinochet’s authoritarian rule, characterized by widespread human rights abuses and suppression of political dissent.

Authoritarian Rule

Pinochet’s regime ushered in a period of ruthless repression, marked by arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial executions of political opponents. Under the guise of combating communism and restoring order, Pinochet dismantled democratic institutions, censored the media, and banned political parties. His government implemented neoliberal economic policies, privatizing state-owned enterprises and deregulating markets, which led to economic growth but also exacerbated income inequality and social disparities.

Downfall and Transition to Democracy

Pinochet’s grip on power began to weaken in the late 1980s amid mounting domestic and international pressure for democratic reforms. In 1988, under pressure from the international community and facing internal dissent, Pinochet agreed to hold a referendum on his presidency. To his surprise, most Chileans voted against extending his rule, leading to the transition to democracy. In 1990, Pinochet stepped down as president, although he retained considerable influence as commander-in-chief of the armed forces until 1998. His departure paved the way for Chile’s return to civilian rule, but his legacy of authoritarianism and human rights abuses continues to shape the country’s political landscape to this day.