How did Augusto Pinochet come to lead Chile’s military government in 1973?

Augusto Pinochet rose to lead Chile’s military government following a period of intense political and economic instability under the administration of President Salvador Allende.1

Allende’s socialist policies, including the nationalization of industries, faced significant domestic opposition and external pressure, particularly from the United States, which sought to undermine his government through economic measures and covert support for opposition groups. As inflation, labor unrest, and social polarization intensified, segments of the military began to view intervention as necessary to restore order.12

In late August 1973, Pinochet was appointed commander in chief of the army after his predecessor, Gen. Carlos Prats, lost military support following a failed coup attempt known as El Tanquetazo. On September 11, 1973, the armed forces launched a military coup, during which the presidential palace was bombed and Allende died. Pinochet emerged as the leader of the military junta that seized power, eventually assuming the title of president in 1974 and establishing a long-standing dictatorship.213456