ABSTRACT
For much of its history, Chile has enjoyed a reputation of exceptionalism, sidestepping many of the problems plaguing other Latin American countries. Prior to a right-wing military coup in 1973, Chile had long boasted a strong, democratic tradition that was the envy of many of its neighbors. In keeping with this democratic tradition, Chile upheld the rule of law, particularly through well-trained and professional public servants like the national police force, the Carabineros of Chile. Under Chilean democracy, disputing parties resolved their dierences through political channels, and widespread protection of civil liberties and political rights created political space for competing interests and visions. e 1973 military coup interrupted this democratic tradition for 16 years, replacing democracy and the rule of law with repression, arbitrary detention, torture, and murder. Military rule also tarnished the reputation of the Carabineros, as the national police supported the military’s repression (Dammert 2006).
