Circumstances that turns Democratic Country into Military
Dictatorship
In what circumstances might a democratic country turn to military
dictatorship or totalitarian rule? Narrate it with a case study.
Circumstances Leading to the Transition from
Democracy to Military Dictatorship or Totalitarian Rule: A
Case Study of Chile
A democratic country may turn to military dictatorship or totalitarian
rule under certain circumstances, including political instability,
economic crises, social unrest, and the failure of democratic
institutions. This assignment explores the conditions that can lead to
such a transition, illustrated with the case study of Chile and the
military coup that brought General Augusto Pinochet to power in
1973.
General Circumstances Leading to Military Dictatorship or
Totalitarian Rule
1. Political Instability and Weak Institutions
Erosion of Democratic Norms: When democratic norms and
institutions weaken, and there is a lack of adherence to the rule of
law, the military might justify intervention to restore order.
Factionalism and Gridlock: Deep political divisions and government
gridlock can lead to public frustration and a perceived need for strong,
decisive leadership.
2. Economic Crises
Hyperinflation and Unemployment: Severe economic crises,
characterized by hyperinflation, unemployment, and poverty, can
undermine faith in democratic governance and make authoritarian
solutions appear more attractive.
Resource Scarcity: Competition over limited resources and economic
mismanagement can exacerbate social tensions and instability.
3. Social Unrest and Violence
Mass Protests and Riots: Large-scale social unrest, protests, and
riots can create a sense of chaos and insecurity, prompting the
military to intervene as a stabilizing force.
Ethnic and Sectarian Conflicts: Persistent ethnic, religious, or
sectarian conflicts can lead to military intervention to prevent civil war
or disintegration of the state.
4. External Threats and Security Concerns
Perceived or Actual External Threats: Threats from neighboring
countries or non-state actors can prompt the military to seize power in
the name of national security.
Internal Insurgencies: The presence of internal insurgencies or
terrorist activities can be used as a pretext for military intervention to
restore order.
5. Leadership Failures and Corruption
Ineffective Leadership: Perceived or real failures of democratic
leaders, including corruption, nepotism, and incompetence, can erode
public trust and lead to calls for authoritarian governance.
Scandals and Abuse of Power: High-profile scandals and abuse of
power can trigger a loss of confidence in democratic institutions and
pave the way for military takeover.
Case Study: Chile and the Rise of Augusto Pinochet
Background
Democratic Tradition: Chile had a long tradition of democratic
governance and political stability before the 1970s.
Election of Salvador Allende: In 1970, Salvador Allende, a Marxist
candidate, was elected President, leading to significant political and
social changes.
Circumstances Leading to the Coup
Economic Crisis: Allende's socialist policies, including nationalization
of key industries and land reforms, led to economic instability,
including hyperinflation, shortages of goods, and declining
productivity.
Social Polarization: Allende's policies polarized Chilean society, with
fierce opposition from the business community, the middle class, and
conservative sectors, while gaining strong support from the working
class and the poor.
Political Deadlock: The Chilean Congress was deeply divided, with
frequent clashes between Allende's government and the opposition,
leading to legislative gridlock and political paralysis.
US Involvement: The United States, fearing the spread of
communism in Latin America, provided covert support to opposition
groups and economic aid to undermine Allende's government.
Military Discontent: The military, traditionally apolitical, grew
increasingly discontented with the perceived chaos and deterioration
of national security under Allende.
The Military Coup
September 11, 1973: General Augusto Pinochet led a military coup
on September 11, 1973, overthrowing Allende's government. The
coup was marked by violence, with Allende dying in the presidential
palace under disputed circumstances.
Establishment of Military Rule: Pinochet established a military
dictatorship, dissolving Congress, banning political parties, and
instituting widespread repression against perceived opponents.
Consequences of the Dictatorship
Human Rights Violations: Pinochet's regime was characterized by
severe human rights abuses, including torture, disappearances, and
extrajudicial killings.
Economic Reforms: The regime implemented neoliberal economic
reforms, including privatization, deregulation, and market
liberalization, which led to economic stabilization but also increased
inequality.
Return to Democracy: After sustained internal and external pressure,
Chile transitioned back to democracy in 1990, with Pinochet stepping
down but retaining influence as head of the military.
Conclusion:
The transition from democracy to military dictatorship or totalitarian
rule can occur under various circumstances, including political
instability, economic crises, social unrest, and leadership failures. The
case study of Chile demonstrates how these factors can converge to
create an environment conducive to military intervention.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial for safeguarding democratic
governance and preventing authoritarianism.
References
1. "The Pinochet File: A Declassified Dossier on Atrocity and
Accountability" by Peter Kornbluh
Provides a comprehensive account of the events leading up to and
following the 1973 coup in Chile, based on declassified documents.
2. "Democracy in Chile: The Legacy of September 11, 1973" edited
by Silvia Borzutzky and Lois Hecht Oppenheim
Examines the impact of the military coup on Chilean society and its
long-term implications for democracy.
3. "The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism" by Naomi
Klein
Discusses the economic policies implemented during Pinochet's
regime and their effects on Chilean society.
