In 1973, political unrest in Uruguay escalated due to a combination of economic difficulties, high inflation, and increasing violence from left-wing guerrilla groups, particularly the Tupamaros. President Juan María Bordaberry, who took office in 1972, faced immense pressure as strikes, protests, and political polarization intensified. Claiming that the country's stability was at risk, Bordaberry made a significant political decision on June 27, when he unilaterally dissolved the National Assembly and declared a state of emergency. He effectively replaced parliamentary rule with a military-backed regime, signaling an end to democratic governance in Uruguay.

This abrupt transition to authoritarian rule was legitimized by Bordaberry through a series of decrees, arguing the necessity of strong leadership to combat domestic threats. The army began to play a central role in enforcing order, leading to widespread crackdowns on opposition, including detentions, torture, and disappearances of political dissidents. The regime operated under the pretext of national security, fostering an atmosphere of fear and repression that severely limited freedoms.

For over a decade, Uruguay was governed by this regime, marked by oppressive tactics against any form of political dissent. This period saw human rights abuses become rampant and was characterized by extreme measures taken against any perceived threats to the state. Eventually, increasing international pressure and domestic discontent led to a gradual restoration of democracy in the mid-1980s, but the legacy of Bordaberry's dictatorship left deep scars on Uruguayan society.