Arturo Frondizi, elected president of Argentina in 1958, faced considerable challenges during his administration, including rising social unrest and opposition from military factions. His government attempted to navigate a precarious balance between different political forces, including labor unions and military leaders. However, internal divisions, particularly within the armed forces, rendered his leadership increasingly tenuous. Frondizi declared a state of emergency to deal with the crises, but this only exacerbated tensions, leading to a protracted standoff that lasted over a week.

On March 29, 1962, the military finally intervened decisively, executing a coup that saw Frondizi ousted and arrested. Led by General Pedro Eugenio Aramburu, the military took control of the government, effectively halting Frondizi's attempts to stabilize the political situation. The coup came as part of a broader trend in Latin America during this period, where military regimes were often seen as necessary to restore order amid perceived chaos.

The aftermath of the coup led to significant changes in Argentina's political structure, signaling a power shift that would influence the country's governance for years to come. This marked the beginning of a series of military governments as Argentina struggled through cycles of military rule and democratic attempts in subsequent decades.