Augusto Pinochet

Born in Valparaíso in 1915, Pinochet rose through the Chilean Army to become commander-in-chief in August 1973, appointed by President Salvador Allende. Three weeks later, on 11 September 1973, he led the military junta that overthrew Allende's democratically elected socialist government with U.S. financial and intelligence support. Proclaimed President in December 1974, Pinochet launched a systematic campaign against leftists and political opponents: executions reached at least 3,095, with as many as 80,000 interned and tens of thousands tortured. His regime founded Operation Condor in 1975, a U.S.-backed terror network across South America. Under the guidance of the "Chicago Boys," his government imposed radical economic liberalization - privatizing state enterprises, banning trade unions, stabilizing currency - policies that spurred growth, deepened inequality, and culminated in the 1982 monetary crisis. A controversial 1980 constitution gave legal cover to his rule, but a 1988 plebiscite saw 56% vote against his continuation, forcing democratic elections in 1990. He stepped down but remained army chief until 1998, when he was arrested in London on an internation