Military dictatorship

Definition

A military dictatorship is a form of government in which the military controls the political power, often characterized by the suspension of constitutional law and civil liberties. This type of regime typically arises in situations of political instability or crisis, where the military takes over to restore order, often resulting in authoritarian rule. In the context of cinema and media in Latin America, military dictatorships have played a significant role in shaping narratives, censorship, and the portrayal of resistance and dissent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Military dictatorships emerged prominently in Latin America during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, as governments sought to suppress leftist movements and maintain control.
2. Many films and media produced during these regimes were subject to strict censorship, leading to a lack of freedom of expression and limiting artistic representation.
3. Resistance against military dictatorships often inspired filmmakers to create works that highlighted social injustices, leading to a rich genre of protest cinema.
4. The legacy of military dictatorship is still felt today in Latin American media, influencing contemporary narratives around trauma, memory, and identity.
5. International responses to military dictatorships included sanctions and condemnation from human rights organizations, influencing how these regimes were portrayed in media both locally and globally.

Review Questions

• How did military dictatorships influence the landscape of cinema and media in Latin America during their rule?
  • Military dictatorships had a profound impact on cinema and media by enforcing strict censorship laws that limited filmmakers' ability to express dissenting views. This led to a stifling of creative expression, where artists had to navigate restrictions while also finding ways to subtly critique the regime. Many films became vehicles for resistance, using allegory or symbolism to convey messages about oppression and human rights abuses.
• Discuss the role of censorship during military dictatorships in Latin America and its effects on artistic expression.
  • Censorship played a critical role during military dictatorships in Latin America by suppressing any form of dissent in media. The state controlled film content, often banning movies that depicted resistance or critiqued the government. This environment forced artists to adapt their work creatively, either through coded messages or underground productions that could evade government scrutiny. The struggle against censorship has become an enduring theme in Latin American cinema.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of military dictatorship on contemporary Latin American cinema and media narratives.
  • The long-term impacts of military dictatorship on contemporary Latin American cinema are significant as they continue to shape themes around memory, trauma, and identity. Filmmakers often explore past injustices while reflecting on how these historical events resonate with current societal issues. The memory of repression influences storytelling styles and fosters a critical lens through which audiences engage with their history. This legacy not only serves as a form of catharsis but also prompts ongoing discussions about human rights and social justice.

Related terms

Authoritarianism: A political system where a single entity or a small group wields significant power, limiting political freedoms and dissent.

Censorship: The suppression or prohibition of speech, public communication, or other information deemed objectionable by authorities.

Human Rights Violations: The infringement on fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals, often seen in contexts of repression and authoritarian governance.