Chile's Ascension to Democracy Flashcards
(16 cards)
What marked the end of Pinochet’s military rule and the start of the democratic transition
1988 plebiscite in which voters rejected extending Augusto Pinochet’s rule
Who led Chile from 1973 until the transition began in 1988?
Augusto Pinochet, who seized power in a military coup on September 11, 1973, and ruled as a dictator.
What happened on September 11, 1973?
A military coup overthrew democratically elected President Salvador Allende
What role did the 1980 Constitution play in the transition?
It was drafted under Pinochet, granting the military entrenched power and requiring a plebiscite in 1988 to renew his mandate—ultimately used to end his rule.
What article of the Constitution made it necessary for a plebiscite to extend Pinochet’s reign?
Article 95
What were the options and outcome of the 1988 referendum?
No won with 55%, triggering democratic elections.
Who was elected in Chile’s first post-Pinochet democratic election?
Patricio Aylwin
How does Liberalism explain Chile’s transition?
Emphasizes role of international norms, human rights pressure from NGOs, and economic interdependence encouraging return to democracy.
How might Realism interpret the transition?
iews the shift as dictated by Chile’s strategic need to regain legitimacy, access to foreign investment, and reduce regional isolation.
How does Constructivism frame Chile’s democratization?
changing domestic and international identities, the spread of democracy as a norm, and “No” campaign symbolism.
How did the Church influence the transition?
human rights support, documented abuses via the Vicariate of Solidarity, and mediated between regime and opposition.
What economic issues pressured the regime toward elections?
Economic crises, including the 1982 recession, unemployment, and loss of foreign capital, undermined regime legitimacy.
Why was the “No” campaign significant?
optimistic messaging, creative advertising, and broad-based civil society support to defeat Pinochet’s extension bid.
What democratic challenges persisted after 1990?
Constitutional restrictions, military prerogatives, and human rights impunity under Pinochet’s senator-for-life status.
What does Chile teach about democratization in IR?
authoritarian regimes can be pressured by plebiscites, international norms, and broad coalitions, blending domestic agency and external influences.
