Historical Events tagged with "latin america"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Pinochet's Coup Topples Allende's Government

September 11th, 1973 51 years ago

On September 11, 1973, a military coup in Chile led by General Augusto Pinochet resulted in the overthrow of President Salvador Allende. The coup unfolded amidst a backdrop of political strife and economic turmoil, as Allende's leftist government faced significant opposition. The military seized control of strategic locations in Santiago, including the presidential palace, La Moneda. Salvador Allende delivered a last broadcast before his death, denouncing the coup and expressing his commitment to the Chilean people. This event marked a pivotal moment in Chilean history, leading to a lengthy period of authoritarian rule.

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Politics & Government

José María Velasco Ibarra Overthrown by Military Again

February 15th, 1972 53 years ago

José María Velasco Ibarra, serving as President of Ecuador for the fifth time, was overthrown by the military for the fourth time in his political career. This military coup was led by General Guillermo Rodríguez, which resulted in Ibarra's detention and the establishment of a military junta. The context of the coup was marked by socio-political unrest and economic difficulties faced by the Ecuadorian government during Ibarra's presidency, creating fertile ground for military intervention.

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Politics & Government

Salvador Allende Becomes Chile's President

September 4th, 1970 54 years ago

Salvador Allende was elected President of Chile after a significant political campaign led by his coalition, Unidad Popular. Allende, a socialist doctor, won the election with a plurality of votes, emphasizing reforms and nationalization of industries. His coming to power marked the first time an openly socialist candidate was elected to the presidency of a Latin American country through a democratic election, inspiring movements across the region.

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Military & Warfare

Ceasefire Ends Football War Between Nations

July 20th, 1969 55 years ago

A ceasefire was announced between Honduras and El Salvador after six days of conflict ignited by riots during a football match. The tensions escalated into military confrontations, leading to widespread violence and thousands of displaced individuals. The ceasefire aimed to halt the loss of life and avoid further escalation, as regional leaders intervened to mediate peace talks. The conflict highlighted underlying social issues in both countries, including migration and land disputes, that had long simmered beneath the surface.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Lamarca's Urban Guerrilla Bank Heist

May 9th, 1969 55 years ago

Carlos Lamarca led a group of urban guerrillas in São Paulo, robbing two banks as a statement against the military dictatorship in Brazil. This action marked a significant moment in the fight against the regime, symbolizing a rise in militant resistance during a period dominated by oppression and censorship. The heist aimed not only to obtain funds for revolutionary activities but also to galvanize public sentiment against the authoritarian government.

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Military & Warfare

Ernesto 'Che' Guevara Executed in Bolivia

October 9th, 1967 57 years ago

Ernesto 'Che' Guevara was captured in Bolivia and executed by the Bolivian military. He had sought to spark a revolution in the country inspired by earlier guerrilla movements in Cuba. Guevara, an influential figure in the Cuban Revolution, aimed to inspire similar uprisings across Latin America but faced significant resistance. His death marked the end of his attempt to establish a revolutionary base in Bolivia.

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Politics & Government

Juan Bosch becomes first elected president

February 27th, 1963 62 years ago

Juan Bosch was inaugurated as the first democratically elected president of the Dominican Republic following years of dictatorship. His election represented a significant shift towards democracy in the nation, capturing the hopes of many citizens after the oppressive regime of Rafael Trujillo. Bosch's leadership was characterized by a progressive agenda aimed at social reform and economic improvement. However, his presidency was short-lived, challenged by political opposition and economic instability.

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Politics & Government

Military Coup Overthrows Arturo Frondizi in Argentina

March 29th, 1962 62 years ago

Following an 11.5 day constitutional crisis, Arturo Frondizi was overthrown in a military coup led by Argentina's armed forces. The country was experiencing political instability, highlighted by Frondizi's failed attempt to manage rivalry between military factions and labor unions. On this day, General Pedro Eugenio Aramburu took control, marking a significant turn in Argentina's political landscape.

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Politics & Government

United States Enforces Ban on Cuban Trade

February 7th, 1962 63 years ago

The United States imposed a complete ban on imports and exports to and from Cuba in response to the Cuban government's alignment with the Soviet Union. Announced by President John F. Kennedy, this embargo aimed to restrict the Cuban economy and limit the influence of communism in the Western Hemisphere. The ban was viewed as a direct challenge to Fidel Castro's regime and heightened tensions between the two nations, setting the stage for future conflicts during the Cold War.

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