Smith and Green_Chile_283-300

Copyright Information

  • Personal Use Only: The document is printed solely for personal and private use.

  • Reproduction Restrictions: No part of the book may be reproduced or transmitted without prior permission from the publisher.

  • Legal Enforcement: Violators of this copyright policy will face prosecution.

Content Summary

Political Context in Chile

  • The political climate in Chile was described as dangerous during the period leading up to Allende’s presidency.

U.S. Intervention

  • Forty Committee Formation:

    • Nixon and Kissinger established the Forty Committee to develop strategies to thwart Allende’s election.

Plans Against Allende

  • Potential Strategies:

    • Reinstatement of Eduardo Frei: A plan was proposed where the Chilean Congress would bypass Allende to elect Alessandri, who would later call for new elections to allow Frei to win.

    • Promotion of a Military Coup: A military coup was considered either before or following Allende's inauguration, although many Chilean officers supported democratic values and resisted.

CIA Operations

  • Failed Kidnapping Policy: A U.S.-backed operation aimed at kidnapping the army commander-in-chief, who advocated for the constitution, failed, resulting in his murder.

  • Policy Statements: A CIA cable stated a firm and ongoing intention to overthrow Allende through a coup.

Economic Measures Against Chile

  • Invisible Blockade:

    • After Allende took office, the Nixon administration enacted measures to destabilize the Chilean economy, aimed at making it painfully unmanageable.

    • Actions included halting economic aid, opposing international loans, discouraging private investment, and manipulating the copper market, encapsulated in Nixon’s words about making the economy "scream."

U.S. Support for Opposition

  • Political Manipulation via CIA:

    • The U.S. government financed anti-Allende media outlets (e.g., El Mercurio) and supported opposition parties in elections.

    • CIA funding also contributed to strikes and other disruptive actions against Allende's government.

Historical Acknowledgment

  • CIA Confirmation: It wasn't until 2000 that the CIA publicly acknowledged its involvement in Chile, confirming its financial support and operations aimed at destabilizing Allende.

Between 1952 to 1973, Chilean party politics were characterized by intense polarization and fragmentation. Major political parties, including the Socialist Party, the Christian Democratic Party, and the Rightist parties, often clashed over economic reforms, social justice, and the role of foreign intervention. The period saw the rise of populism, particularly with the election of Salvador Allende in 1970, who represented a coalition of leftist parties. Political alliances shifted frequently, leading to unstable coalitions and increasing tensions between the left and right. Additionally, external influences, particularly from the U.S., played a significant role in shaping political dynamics and opposition strategies during these years.