The article explores how the technocratic mindset influenced policy-making in Chile from the 1850s to 1970s. By analyzing official documents, press, academic literature, and interviews, it shows that expert knowledge played a significant role in addressing complex problems faced by the State. Contrary to common belief, technocratic influence was already present in the old Chilean democracy and continued to grow until the authoritarian regime ended in 1973. This challenges the idea that technocracy is a new feature of Chilean democracy since 1990.