Junta Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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junta
[ˈhʊntə ]
Definitions
political group
A junta is a group of individuals, typically military officers, who take control of a government, often through a coup d'état. It can also refer to a committee or council that governs or assists in governance.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The junta seized power in a military coup.
- Members of the junta imposed strict rules on the population.
- The political climate was tense under the junta's rule.
governing body
In some contexts, a junta may refer to a legislative or administrative assembly, particularly in countries undergoing political transitions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The junta convened to discuss reforms.
- A new junta was established after the revolution.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Many juntas emerged in Latin America during the 20th century, often following military coups.
- The Chilean junta from 1973 to 1990 led by General Augusto Pinochet is one of the most notable examples, marked by strict political repression.
Politics
- Juntas often operate outside normal democratic processes, leading to debates about legitimacy and governance.
- They can arise in times of crisis, like natural disasters or civil unrest, as a way to restore order.
Culture
- The concept of a junta can be depicted in various forms of media, illustrating the conflict and power struggles within societies.
- In literature and film, historical juntas frequently serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of power, betrayal, and morality.
International Relations
- Countries often face sanctions or diplomatic isolation if they are ruled by a junta, especially if they came to power through force.
- Juntas can lead to a cycle of instability, where the consequences of their control spark ongoing resistance or rival factions.
Origin of 'junta'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Spanish word 'junta', meaning 'meeting' or 'assembly', originally referring to a council.
- In the 18th century, the word began to refer specifically to military or political groups that seize authority.
The word 'junta' comes from the Spanish term for 'join' or 'meeting,' which is derived from the Latin word 'jungere,' meaning 'to join.' Initially used to describe the council or assembly, 'junta' gained a political connotation in the early 19th century, especially in the context of military governments in Latin America and Spain. Following a series of coups in the 20th century, the term became synonymous with military rule and authoritarian governance. The historical usage of 'junta' often implies a lack of democratic legitimacy and a concentration of power within a small group, typically characterized by its rapid and forceful acquisition of political authority.