A military dictatorship is a form of government where the military controls the political power, often after taking control through a coup. In this system, military leaders make decisions without the consent of the public or elected representatives, often suspending civil liberties and political rights. These regimes typically justify their rule by claiming to restore order or protect national security. Examples of military dictatorships include those in countries like Chile under Augusto Pinochet and Argentina during the Dirty War. Such governments often face criticism for human rights abuses and lack of democratic processes.