Part 3/10:
The military, known as the Tatmadaw, seized power in a coup in 1962, initiating decades of military dictatorial rule. The Tatmadaw has maintained significant control, fostering an environment of repression and unrest. Even during a period of semi-democracy in the 2010s, under the nominal leadership of Aung San Suu Kyi, the military exercised considerable influence, particularly during violent crackdowns on dissent.
The 2020 electoral defeat of the military-affiliated party culminated in a coup on February 1, 2021, when the Tatmadaw detained key political figures, including Suu Kyi. Instead of asserting control, the coup provoked widespread protests and resistance movements, leading to violent confrontations across the nation.