dirty war timeline
Timeline of the 1976-83 Argentine Military Dictatorship
From 1976 to 1983, Argentina was ruled by a military dictatorship. During this time, as well as in the turbulent years preceding the coup, many thousands of people were kidnapped, tortured, and killed by military and paramilitary groups. Information about this campaign of terror was, not surprisingly, suppressed in the Argentine press.
A few papers, however--most notably the English-language daily the Buenos Aires Herald--managed to publish some news of the events.
This timeline, running from 1975, the year before the coup, to the return of democracy in 1983, contains what we feel are some key events of the period. Unfortunately, much of what went on then was and remains secret.
The information is largely taken from the original Herald articles. As a result, it reflects some of the uncertainties and confusion of the time about what was actually happening; the original information often contrasts with "it turns out later that..." The timeline has a particular focus on press censorship, as well as on reports of disappearances and killings.
We have tried to make sure the information is accurate; if you find errors or inconsistencies in the timeline, please do not hesitate to contact us. We also appreciate information on additional dates that are currently missing.
The timeline was compiled by Jeremy Peterson, with information taken from Buenos Aires Herald articles and other sources. Please contact Jeremy if you have any questions.