The republic of Chile initially declared its independence from Spain on September 18th, 1810, a day on which Chileans still celebrate their independence. In the ensuing centuries, Chile underwent a number of governmental changes, experimented with a variety of regime types, and eventually emerged as the strong, if troubled, democracy that exists today. The story of Chilean democracy is a story of evolving constitutions, each of which has left its mark on Chilean politics.
Although Chileans first asserted their independence in 1810, true liberation did not come until 1818, after a number of bloody battles with Spanish troops. Following emancipation from colonial rule, Chilean politics were marred by deep ideological tensions, civil war, and the failure to impose meaningful democratic structures or institutions; each of which served as an obstacle to stable or legitimate government. Following the establishment of the 1833
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Certain components, however, reeked of autocratic influence, and served to weaken the state of Chilean democracy for years to come. Initially, the constitution mandated that Pinochet would serve an automatic eight-year term, as the host of a “transitional” government. Following this “transitional period”, in 1988, a single candidate chosen by military leaders would be placed before the public in a referendum, wherein the people could choose to reject or accept the candidate. According to the constitution, should the people reject the military’s suggested candidate, a free and fair election would take place the following year. Unsurprisingly, military leaders nominated Pinochet as the 1988 candidate. Owing to poor economic conditions, an increase in criticism from civil society, and the mobilization of a disorganized, but passionate, opposition, however, Pinochet was defeated in the plebiscite, and forced to allow a free election the following