The Acquisition, Consolidation and Legitimation of Military Power: The Case of Pinochet

Abstract

A military coup in Chile in 1976 brought an end to a long-standing constitutional tradition. General Pinochet came to power, and his dictatorship had a long and profound impact on Chile. Current research has analyzed Pinochet's regime mainly from a macro perspective. Based on the literature review, this paper will use the theories of Schmitt, Machiavelli, and Weber to fill the research gap from a political perspective and explore the ways in which Pinochet acquired power, consolidated power, and ensured the legitimacy of his regime. While the theories of the three political philosophers can provide support for the Pinochet regime, the flaws in the theories promote further reflection on these lessons, thus helping Chile to better understand the past and look toward the future.