Here’s what the WSJ calls “midwifing democracy:” Pinochet Tried Defying Defeat, Papers Show

SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — Newly published American documents indicate that the Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet sought to use military force to annul the referendum that ended his brutal rule. The plan was rejected by his fellow generals, the documents say.

The formerly top-secret documents posted by the independent National Security Archive on Friday also show that American officials warned Chilean leaders against violence if Pinochet tried to use force to stay in power. …

A day before the vote, Pinochet “planned to do whatever was necessary to stay in power,” according to a Defense Intelligence Agency document based on information from a Chilean air force officer.

“Pinochet reportedly told advisers: ‘I’m not leaving, no matter what,’ ” the document said.