Augusto Pinochet was a Chilean general who became a prominent political figure when he led a military coup in 1973 that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Salvador Allende. Following the coup, Pinochet established a military dictatorship that lasted until 1990. During his rule, he implemented neoliberal economic reforms that transformed the Chilean economy but also faced criticism for widespread human rights abuses, including torture and disappearances of political opponents. Pinochet's regime was marked by severe repression, as he sought to eliminate leftist opposition. Thousands of individuals were arrested, and many were killed or went missing. Despite this dark legacy, Pinochet maintained a level of support among certain sectors of the Chilean population due to economic growth observed during his tenure. After leaving office, Pinochet faced numerous legal challenges related to human rights violations and corruption. He was arrested in several countries and became a controversial figure both domestically and internationally. His legacy remains divisive in Chile, as perspectives on his governance and the consequences of his tenure continue to shape national discourse. Augusto Pinochet was a Chilean military leader who became a key figure in Chile's history after overthrowing President Salvador Allende in a 1973 coup. His rule is characterized by significant economic changes, but also by severe human rights violations. During his dictatorship, Pinochet implemented drastic economic reforms that spurred growth, yet his regime was also marked by brutality against political opponents, which led to thousands of deaths and disappearances. Despite stepping down in 1990, Pinochet's legacy is still hotly debated in Chile, balancing between his economic policies and the dark aspects of human rights abuses under his government.