1978 Chilean Constitutional Plebiscite

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The 1978 Chilean Constitutional Plebiscite was not directly related to the creation of a new constitution but rather a national consultation on President Augusto Pinochet's political program. Held on January 4, 1978, it aimed to confirm support for Pinochet's policies amid international criticism over human rights abuses. The referendum featured a ballot with a Chilean flag for the "yes" option and a solid black rectangle for the "no" option, which some argued was designed to sway voters towards Pinochet. The results showed 78.60% voted in favor of Pinochet's policies. This event set the stage for Pinochet's continued rule and influenced the eventual drafting of a new constitution in 1980. The 1980 constitution, approved in a separate plebiscite, solidified Pinochet's position and established a framework for transitioning from military to civilian rule. While the 1978 consultation did not directly result in a new constitution, it was part of a broader political strategy by Pinochet to consolidate power and shape Chile's political trajectory during his regime.