Abstract

The transitional process in Chile has been ¡nfluenced by the particular characteristics of the military intervention from 1973-1990. The origin ofthe military action that brought President Allende's government to an end; the characteristics of the military government and finally, the distinctiveness of the transition to democracy have allowed the Armed Forces to contribute to the Consolidation of democracy, without constituting themselves as political actors. In particular, the Army has recovered its reputation, and the respect and proximity of the people. Additionally, there is no question of its subordination to the political authority. The Army generated a shift in doctrine, organization and education that allowed a transformation ofthe military s role, appropriate for the realities ofthe 21" Century and the post Cold War world. All of the above permits the Army to be perceived as professional, efficient, and a fundamental institution ofthe State which is highly ranked in all surveys that measure these factors