Pinochet Part 2: The Caravan of Death
Real Dictators
Deep Dive
Why did Pinochet escalate troop movements in Santiago in September 1973?
Pinochet was preparing for a full-scale assault on President Allende, despite lying to Allende about the troops being for protection during Independence Day celebrations.
What was the role of the United States in the Chilean coup of 1973?
The CIA, under Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, had been systematically undermining Allende's government economically for three years, supporting the coup to prevent Chile from becoming communist.
How did Pinochet's forces deal with resistance during the coup?
Pinochet's troops surrounded La Moneda palace, issued ultimatums, and used tanks and air force jets to bomb and assault the palace, leading to President Allende's death and the surrender of his bodyguards.
What happened to Victor Jara after the coup?
Victor Jara, a prominent folk singer and leftist, was detained, tortured, and eventually executed with 44 bullet wounds and 56 broken bones. His body was mutilated before being returned to his widow.
What was the Caravan of Death, and what was its purpose?
The Caravan of Death was a helicopter-borne killing squad led by General Stark, tasked with eliminating socialists and leftist sympathizers across Chile to instill fear and eradicate opposition to Pinochet's regime.
How did Pinochet consolidate his power after the coup?
Pinochet established a military junta and refused to rotate leadership, remaining head of the junta for 17 years. He also created a secret police force to suppress leftist movements and ensure his control over Chile.
What was the immediate public reaction to Pinochet's coup in Chile?
Many Chileans, particularly the upper classes, celebrated the removal of Allende, viewing it as a rescue from chaos. They toasted Pinochet and referred to him as 'my general'.
How did the coup impact the Chilean economy?
The coup ended the economic turmoil caused by Allende's socialist policies and the U.S. economic squeeze, but it also ushered in a brutal dictatorship that suppressed labor movements and leftist economic reforms.
What was the role of the military in the coup?
The Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police coordinated the coup, with Pinochet leading the Army. They secured key locations, isolated Allende, and systematically crushed resistance across the country.
How did Pinochet justify the coup to the public?
Pinochet announced on radio that the armed forces demanded an immediate transfer of power due to the economic and moral crisis under Allende, claiming they aimed to restore order and prevent further harm.
- General Pinochet's deceitful assurances to President Allende
- The coordinated efforts of the Chilean Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police
- Admiral Montero's loyalty to Allende and his subsequent isolation