Military Coup of 1973


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Military Coup of 1973

Military Coup of 1973: On 11th September, 1973, the democratic government of Chile was overthrown by its military. The military took over the seaport, arrested the Defence Minister of Chile and its commanders, and asked the President to resign. AIlende refused to resign or to leave the country. But realising the danger to the nation and to his life, President Allende addressed the people on radio. He said, “Workers of my homeland! I have faith in Chile and its future. Chileans will overcome this dark and bitter moment when treason became dominant. You must never forget that, sooner rather than later, the grand avenues will be opened where free men will march build on to build a better society. Long live Chile! Long live the people! Long  live the workers!

These are my last words and I have -certainty that my sacrifice will not be in vain; I have certainty that, at the least, it will be a moral lesson to punish felony, cowardice, and treason.” On the same day, he died in the military attack or coup. This was the sacrifice what he talked about in his last speech.

Trade Unions: Associations of workers for the purpose of maintaining or improving the conditions of their employment.

Coalition: A government formed by two or more political parties working together.

Military  Dictatorship in Chile: General  Augusto Pinochet led the coup. The United States of America was unhappy with Allende’s rule and is known to have supported and funded activities that led to the coup. Pinochet became the President and ruled Chile for the next 17 years. From a government that was elected by the people, the power shifted to a military dictatorship through conspiracy and violence. Pinohet’s government tortured and killed those who supported democracy and the policies of Salvador Allende. These included the General of the Chilean Air Force, Alberto Bachelet, and many other officers who refused to join the coup. Even Bachelet’s wife and daughter were put in prison and tortured. More than 3000 were killed and many more went missing.

 
 


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