Salvador Allende was elected as the President of Chile through a competitive political election, representing the coalition known as Unidad Popular. Allende, a member of the Socialist Party, campaigned on a program that included extensive social reforms aimed at benefiting the working class and addressing inequality. His promises included nationalizing key industries, such as copper mining, which was a large source of revenue for the Chilean economy. Allende's election occurred in an environment where political polarization was rampant, and various sectors of society were either in favor of his progressive changes or resolutely opposing them. The election results showed that Allende received approximately 36.6% of the popular vote, which was enough for him to become president under Chile's electoral system that allowed for plurality wins.

In the months following his election, Allende faced tremendous challenges, including opposition from conservative sectors, economic difficulties, and external pressures, particularly from the United States, which feared the spread of communism in Latin America. Despite these obstacles, Allende's government began implementing policy changes immediately, including agrarian reform and the nationalization of foreign-owned industries. His presidency was marked by significant advancement toward social justice, but it also led to mounting tensions within the country, culminating in a polarized atmosphere that would later result in a coup d'état in 1973.