The 1986 Assassination Attempt on Augusto Pinochet

Name: The 1986 Assassination Attempt on Augusto Pinochet
Start: 1915-09-07
Location: Unspecified

The Dramatic 1986 Assassination Attempt

The failed assassination attempt on Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet on September 7, 1986, stands as a pivotal moment in Chilean history. This high-stakes event unfolded as a group of Chilean leftist militants known as the FPMR (Revolutionary Left Movement) executed a meticulously planned operation to eliminate the dictator who had ruled with an iron fist since the 1973 military coup.

The assassination attempt took place in the suburbs of Santiago as Pinochet was en route to a meeting. An explosion orchestrated by the FPMR resulted in a bloody encounter, killing five people, including a general and several bodyguards. Despite the boldness of this attack, Pinochet survived, fortifying his regime but also deepening opposition against it.

Key Players in the Assassination Attempt

The operation was spearheaded by Raúl Pellegrin and other members of the FPMR who sought to end Pinochet's oppression. They were spurred by decades of human rights abuses and the desire for democratic governance in Chile. Despite their bravery, the attack fell short of its ultimate goal and marked a turning point in resistance efforts.

The Aftermath of the Attack on Pinochet

While the 1986 assassination attempt failed, it emboldened anti-Pinochet forces across the country. The regime responded with increased repression, launching a crackdown on dissent, resulting in heightened violence and further political instability in the years that followed. Pinochet’s surviving the attack only intensified his resolve to hold power.

Legacy of the Assassination Attempt

The failed assassination attempt on Augusto Pinochet holds immense significance in the narrative of Chile's struggle for democracy. It showcased the lengths to which opposition groups were willing to go to challenge the authoritarian regime.

Impact on Chile's Future

Despite the failure of the assassination attempt, the event galvanized many in Chile, leading to continued protests and ultimately contributing to the transition to democracy in 1990. The resilience of the Chilean people in the face of oppressive rule was further highlighted by this event.

Pinochet’s Continued Reign

In the immediate aftermath, the attack led to Pinochet ramping up his military and police measures. His government became notorious for its violent repression of opposition, but the seeds of change were sown, setting the stage for the eventual return of democracy in Chile.

Fun Fact

The Bold Strategy of FPMR

The FPMR employed sophisticated tactics in their assassination attempt on Pinochet, which included using armored vehicles and engaging in a high-speed chase with the dictator's convoy. This audacity reflected their desperation and determination against his oppressive regime.