Changes

Chile gained its independence from Spain in 1810, under Simon Bolivar.

Chile gained its independence from Spain in 1810, under Simon Bolivar.

   

   

From 1970 to 1973, Chile's leader was Salvador Allende, a democratically-elected populist. In 1973, General Augusto Pinochet Ugarto, better known as [[General Pinochet]], gained power in a military coup, during which Allende committed suicide. The coup is alleged to have been supported by the CIA. Pinochet instituted free market reforms and opposed communism, but also participated in Operation Condor, a reprisal against political opponents during which thousands of Chileans disappeared.  After Pinochet's ouster in 1988, Chile has attempted to try him for war crimes committed under his regime, but trails were postponed due to his age. Pinochet died in 2006, due to heart failure.

From 1970 to 1973, Chile's leader was Salvador Allende, a democratically-elected populist. In 1973, General Augusto Pinochet Ugarto, better known as [[General Pinochet]], gained power in a military coup, during which Allende committed suicide. The coup is alleged to have been supported by the CIA. Pinochet instituted free market reforms and opposed communism, but also directed [[the Operation Condor]], a reprisal against political opponents during which thousands of Chileans disappeared, have been tortured and killed. Moreover he restricted freedom of press, of expression, etc., by the establishment of a despotic and militarian power.

 

After Pinochet's ouster in 1988, Chile has attempted to try him for war crimes committed under his regime, but trails were postponed due to his age. Pinochet died in 2006, due to heart failure.

Chile's current president, Michelle Bachellet, is the first woman president of the country. She is also a member of the Chilean Socialist party.

Chile's current president, Michelle Bachellet, is the first woman president of the country. She is also a member of the Chilean Socialist party.