Military coups

Definition

Military coups are abrupt, often illegal seizures of power by military forces that typically result in the overthrow of a sitting government. These events often stem from political instability, social unrest, or dissatisfaction with elected officials and can disrupt the democratic process, leading to authoritarian regimes or prolonged periods of conflict.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Latin America has a significant history of military coups, particularly during the mid-20th century, with countries like Chile and Argentina experiencing prominent examples.
2. Coups often occur in response to perceived failures of democracy, such as corruption or ineffective governance, leading the military to justify intervention as necessary for national stability.
3. The aftermath of military coups can result in human rights violations, suppression of dissent, and an erosion of civil liberties as new regimes consolidate their power.
4. International reactions to military coups vary, with some countries imposing sanctions or diplomatic pressures while others may recognize new governments based on strategic interests.
5. In many cases, military coups have led to civil wars or prolonged conflicts, as opposing factions resist the new regime and vie for power.

Review Questions

• How do military coups challenge the principles of democratic governance?
  • Military coups directly undermine democratic governance by bypassing established electoral processes and forcibly removing elected leaders. This creates a climate of political instability and can erode public trust in democratic institutions. When the military intervenes, it often leads to authoritarian rule, limiting political freedoms and rights, and can result in a cycle of coups if not properly addressed.
• What factors contribute to the occurrence of military coups in Latin America, and how do they reflect broader political challenges in the region?
  • Factors contributing to military coups in Latin America include political instability, economic crises, social unrest, and ineffective governance. These conditions create an environment where military intervention is perceived as a viable solution to restore order. The prevalence of such coups reflects broader challenges in consolidating democracy in the region, including issues related to corruption, weak political institutions, and civil-military relations that often tilt towards military dominance.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of military coups on democratic consolidation in Latin America.
  • The long-term implications of military coups on democratic consolidation in Latin America are profound. They can lead to prolonged periods of authoritarianism that stifle democratic development and civic engagement. Coups disrupt social trust and create divisions within society that make it challenging to build inclusive political systems post-coup. Additionally, they may establish precedents for future military interventions, undermining efforts to strengthen civilian authority and governance structures essential for stable democracies.

Related terms

authoritarianism: A political system characterized by the concentration of power in a leader or an elite not accountable to the public, often resulting from coups.

transitional government: A temporary government set up after a coup, which may aim to stabilize the country before transitioning back to democratic rule.

civil-military relations: The relationship between civilian government institutions and military organizations, which can influence the likelihood and outcomes of coups.