Coup d'état

Definition

A coup d'état is the sudden, illegal overthrow of a government, often executed by a small group of people, typically within the military or political elite. This act usually aims to replace the existing leadership without a significant popular uprising, which can lead to a change in regime or political system. Coups can occur in various political contexts, reflecting instability within states that may have authoritarian or fragile democratic structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coup d'états can be swift, often occurring within hours or days, and they typically involve the strategic seizure of key government buildings and communication channels.
2. Historical examples of coups d'état include the 1953 Iranian coup that removed Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh and the 1973 Chilean coup that overthrew President Salvador Allende.
3. The success of a coup d'état often depends on the control of military forces and support from influential political factions, as well as popular acquiescence or apathy.
4. Coup d'états can lead to varying outcomes, including the establishment of authoritarian regimes, political instability, or sometimes a return to democratic governance depending on the responses from both domestic and international actors.
5. Countries with weak institutions or high levels of corruption are more susceptible to coups, as these conditions create power vacuums and reduce public confidence in leadership.

Review Questions

• How does a coup d'état differ from other forms of government change such as revolution or regime change?
  • A coup d'état is typically characterized by its speed and the limited participation of the populace, often executed by a small group within the military or political elite. In contrast, revolutions generally involve mass mobilization and widespread public participation to overthrow a regime. Regime change can occur through various methods, including coups and revolutions, but also through elections or diplomatic interventions. Understanding these differences helps clarify the specific nature and implications of each action on the political landscape.
• What factors contribute to the likelihood of a coup d'état occurring in a country?
  • Several factors increase the likelihood of a coup d'état, including political instability, weak institutions, widespread corruption, and social unrest. Countries with military forces that are politically active and have grievances against civilian leadership are particularly at risk. Additionally, when there is significant dissatisfaction with economic conditions or governmental legitimacy among elites or the populace, this creates an environment where coups may be perceived as viable options for change. The interplay between these factors often determines the stability or vulnerability of a state.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of coups d'état on democratic governance in affected countries.
  • The long-term consequences of coups d'état can severely impact democratic governance by establishing authoritarian regimes that stifle political freedoms and undermine civil society. In many cases, coups lead to cycles of instability as new leaders may face opposition from groups loyal to ousted governments or from civil society movements advocating for democracy. Furthermore, persistent coups can erode public trust in political institutions and discourage voter participation in elections. Ultimately, countries experiencing repeated coups may struggle to build stable democracies and could find themselves trapped in cycles of violence and repression.

Related terms

Regime Change: The replacement of one government or political system with another, which can occur through various means, including violent and non-violent actions.

Military Junta: A government led by a committee of military leaders that often comes to power through a coup d'état, sidelining civilian authority.

Insurrection: A violent uprising against an authority or government, which differs from a coup d'état in that it typically involves broader participation from the general population.