José María Velasco Ibarra, a prominent figure in Ecuadoran politics, was ousted from the presidency by a military coup on February 15, 1972. This marked his fourth removal from power, a record in Ecuadorian politics at the time. The coup was orchestrated by General Guillermo Rodríguez, who capitalized on widespread discontent with Ibarra's administration due to economic instability and social unrest. Protests had been growing against rising inflation, poverty, and the lack of effective governance, which provided an environment where military intervention seemed justified to some sectors of society.

In light of these tensions, the military seized control, detaining Ibarra and effectively dissolving the existing government. The junta, formed as a result of the coup, aimed to stabilize the country and restore order, which was challenged by various political factions and civil society groups. The response to the coup was mixed; while some citizens welcomed the military leadership, others opposed it vehemently, leading to a further deepening of political divisions within the country.

The post-coup period saw the military implement reforms, but the underlying issues of democracy and civilian rule were still contentious. The coup had significant repercussions for Ibarra's political legacy and for Ecuador's future governance, presenting a complex narrative of power in Latin American politics.