Chilenization of Tacna, Arica and Tarapacá

The Chilenization of Tacna, Arica, and Tarapacá refers to a process of forced acculturation implemented by Chile in the former Peruvian territories of Tacna, Arica, and Tarapacá following their occupation during the War of the Pacific (1879–1883). The primary objective was to assert Chilean cultural and national identity in these regions, which had previously been part of Peru.

The process involved a range of measures aimed at weakening Peruvian influence and consolidating Chilean control. These included the closure of Peruvian-run schools, the expulsion of Peruvian clergy and interference in religious institutions, the expansion of Chile's military presence into civilian areas such as Tacna, the promotion of Chilean media and propaganda, restrictions on Peruvian press and political activities, and a policy of encouraging Chilean colonization.

Chile's refusal to ratify the Billinghurst-Latorre Protocol, which had aimed to resolve the status of Tacna and Arica, marked the beginning of systematic Chilenization efforts in those provinces. Some historians also note that British economic interests—particularly the unification of saltpeter mining operations under a single political authority—played a role in influencing the outcome of the war and its aftermath.