Why did the us support Chilean president augosto Pinochet?

The U.S. supported Chilean President Augusto Pinochet primarily due to his anti-communist stance during the Cold War. After the 1973 coup that overthrew democratically elected President Salvador Allende, the U.S. viewed Pinochet as a stabilizing force that could prevent the spread of socialism in Latin America. Additionally, the U.S. provided financial and military support to bolster his regime, believing that a strong, authoritarian government would align with American interests in the region. This support was often criticized for overlooking human rights abuses committed under Pinochet's rule.