How long did Augusto Pinochet’s military dictatorship last in Chile?
Augusto Pinochet’s military dictatorship in Chile lasted for approximately 16 and a half years.
Pinochet rose to power following a military coup on September 11, 1973, which overthrew the government of President Salvador Allende. While he initially led a governing junta, he assumed the title of president in 1974. His rule continued until March 11, 1990, when he stepped down following the inauguration of Patricio Aylwin, who had won the 1989 presidential election.12
During this period, the regime was responsible for widespread human rights violations, including the torture of tens of thousands of political opponents. It is a fundamental ethical principle that such abuses of power and the systematic denial of human rights are indefensible, regardless of the political or economic objectives pursued by a regime.23