In the early 1970s, the Chilean government, under President Salvador Allende, took bold steps toward economic reform, with the nationalization of copper mines being one of the most profound actions. Copper had long been a cornerstone of Chile's economy, with vast foreign investments dominating the industry. The government identified copper mining as pivotal to generate revenue for extensive social programs intended to improve the living standards of the Chilean populace. The series of reforms initiated by Allende aimed to redistribute wealth, reduce foreign control, and foster economic independence. On July 11, 1971, the Chilean Congress passed a law nationalizing the copper industry, leading to the seizure of major mining companies. The nationalization was met with significant international backlash, particularly from the United States, which had substantial interests in the region. The nationalization didn't just represent economic change; it also symbolized a broader ideological struggle in Latin America, where many countries were wrestling with the influence of foreign powers and exploring more socialist-oriented policies. As part of this revolutionary agenda, the Chilean government hoped to harness copper wealth for national development initiatives.