The Argentine military dictatorship refers to a period in Argentina from 1976 to 1983 when the military took control of the government. This regime was marked by severe human rights abuses, including the forced disappearance of thousands of people, known as the Dirty War. The military justified their actions as a way to combat leftist terrorism and restore order in the country. During this time, many citizens lived in fear, as the government targeted anyone suspected of opposing their rule. The dictatorship ended in 1983, leading to a return to democracy and efforts to address the atrocities committed, including trials for those responsible for the human rights violations.