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The History of Chile

Chile's history is long and fascinating, much like the nation itself. Learn about intrepid explorers, ruthless dictators, brilliant writers and more!
Biography of Miguel Enriquez
Miguel Enriquez (1944-1974) was a Chilean doctor and revolutionary, one of the founders of the MIR (Revolutionary Left Movement) a Marxist guerrilla group dedicated to overthrowing the regime of Augusto Pinochet. Enriquez was killed in a battle with Chilean security forces in 1974.
Chile's MIR: The Revolutionary Left Movement
In the mid 1960's, young Chilean students founded the MIR, or Revolutionary Left Movement. When President Salvador Allende was overthrown in 1973 by Augusto Pinochet, the MIR fought against the dictatorship. Most of the MIR's members were arrested, killed, or exiled. Today it survives as a political party.
Biography of Diego de Almagro
Diego de Almagro was an important conquistador who played a key role in the conquest of the mighty Inca Empire. He was later defeated and executed by his former friend and ally Francisco Pizarro in the civil wars that followed the conquest.
Biography of José Manuel Balmaceda
José Manuel Balmaceda was President of Chile from 1886 to 1891. A liberal, he wanted to use his country's newfound wealth to expand education, transportation and the military. His constant fighting with Congress eventually led to a disastrous civil war, which he lost.
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Chilean Pre-Colombian Art Museum)
One of Santiago, Chile's best-loved and oft-visited museums, the Pre-Colombian Art Museum is a fascinating cross between a history and an art museum. There is ample information on the cultures that produced the pieces on display, but they were selected for aesthetics. It's a don't-miss when in Santiago for lovers of art, history and both.
National History Museum (Museo Histórico Nacional) Santiago, Chile
Chile's National History museum is well worth a visit, as it contains a wealth of information and many priceless historical relics.
Biography of Carlos Prats
Carlos Prats was a Chilean Army General who served under President Salvador Allende. After Allende was removed in a coup, Prats fled to Argentina, where Chilean agents assassinated him in 1974.
Biography of Orlando Letelier
Orlando Letelier was a rising political star in Chile in 1973, when General Augusto Pinochet seized control of the government. Living in exile, Letelier was an outspoken critic of the military regime, and in September, 1976, he was killed in Washington, D.C. by Chilean agents: an attack on US soil by an "ally" in the war on communism.
José de San Martín
A Biography of José de San Martín,liberator of Argentina and Chile.
Biography of Juan Bautista Alberdi
Juan Bautista Alberdi was a writer, diplomat and intellectual who was critical during the formation of the modern Republic of Argentina after the 1852 downfall of dictator Juan Manuel de Rosas. Foremost among his many accomplishments is the authorship of Argentina's first constitution.
Biography of Augusto Pinochet
Augusto Pinochet (1915-2006) was a general in the Chilean military who also served as president and dictator for almost twenty years.
Biography of Juan Sebastián Elcano
Juan Sebastián Elcano was a Basque sailor and navigator, and the first man to successfully complete a round-the-world naval voyage. He set out from Spain in 1519 as part of the Magellan expedition and returned in 1522, having led the fleet after Magellan's death.
Biography of Ferdinand Magellan
Ferdinand Magellan was a Portuguese navigator and captain who led the first expedition that successfully circled the globe.
The Ten Most Influential Latin Americans in History
Latin America has had its share of leaders, but these ten people have made a difference not only in their home country, but in the world.
The Ten Most Influential Latin Americans in History
Latin America has had its share of leaders, but these ten people have made a difference not only in their home country, but in the world.
Explore Latin American History
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