Memorial for the Disappeared facts for kids
The Memorial for the Disappeared (which in Spanish is called Memorial del Detenido Desaparecido y del Ejecutado Político) is a special wall. You can find it at the entrance of the Santiago General Cemetery in Santiago, Chile. This memorial remembers about 3,000 people who went missing or were killed. This happened after a big change in government in Chile in 1973, known as the 1973 Chilean coup d'état.
The long, tall marble wall has the names of these 3,000 people carved into it. For many families, this wall is a very important place. When the remains of someone who was missing are found and identified, their name on the wall changes. It moves from being listed as "disappeared" to "deceased." Many people visit the memorial. They often leave flowers, photos, and messages asking for action from the government. At the very top of the wall, there is a line from a Chilean poet named Raul Zurita. It says, "All my love is here and here has stayed: Tied to the rocks, to the sea, to the mountains." This memorial is the most famous place in Chile that helps people remember this difficult time.
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Understanding the Memorial's Purpose
This memorial helps people remember a sad time in Chile's history. It honors those who lost their lives or disappeared during a period of political change. The wall is a place for families to mourn and to keep the memory of their loved ones alive. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of human rights.
What Happened in 1973?
In 1973, there was a major event in Chile called a coup d'état. This means that the military took control of the government by force. This change led to a time when many people faced serious problems. Some people were arrested, and others simply disappeared. The memorial remembers these individuals.
Why is it Important to Remember?
Remembering events like the 1973 coup helps us learn from history. It teaches us about the importance of peace and respecting everyone's rights. The Memorial for the Disappeared helps ensure that these events are not forgotten. It reminds future generations about the value of freedom and justice.
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