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Venezuela
7/1/2011
Overview:
Under the leadership of democratically elected President Hugo Chavez, Venezuela has become increasingly at odds with the United States. While both countries share a mutual interest in Venezuela’s oil reserves, Chavez opposes U.S. foreign policy efforts, a point underscored by his efforts to strengthen relations with Iran. Join Active Minds® as we explore the origins of this escalating conflict.
Key Lecture Points:
• July 5, 2011 marks the 200th anniversary of the signing of the formal Venezuelan Declaration of Independence from Spanish colonial control. Although it would only last one year, the Venezuelan Republic of 1811 would set the stage for full independence of South and Central American Spanish colonies.
• Simon Bolivar led the South American wars of independence, finally defeating the Spanish in 1821. Bolivar aspired to free and unify all of the former Spanish colonies. After liberating the areas including Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia from Spanish rule, Bolivar ruled briefly as a dictator over the vast region.
• By 1829, Bolivar’s efforts had failed, and the various elements of his state split off into separate states. Venezuela became an independent country in 1829 when elites in Caracas deposed and exiled Bolivar.
• Since 1829, Venezuela has had a long history of caudillos, strongmen dictators. Additionally, Venezuelan history has been influenced by US involvement in the hemisphere. In 1895, the US intervened directly, negotiating a border dispute between Britain and Venezuela. At the time, the US Secretary of State, Richard Olney stated “Today the US is practically sovereign on this continent.”
• Since 1998, Venezuela has been ruled by President Hugo Chavez. Chavez’ vision of “21st Century Socialism” includes alleviating the social ills of his people while attacking capitalism and globalization. He has nationalized many of Venezuela’s key sectors and industries, including oil. He labels the United States as a dangerous force, with imperialistic designs on controlling Venezuela and Latin America. While Chavez has been re-elected twice and survived a recall referendum, he has also been criticized for anti-democratic efforts, including the nationalization of media outlets and the use of rule by decree. Chavez is up for re-election in 2012.
• Chavez has been hospitalized in Cuba since June 10, 2011, undergoing treatment for cancer. His prolonged absence has been shrouded in mystery, creating speculation by friends and foes alike about the stability of his health, and thus his capacity to continue to rule Venezuela.
Exploration Questions:
• How has Simon Bolivar influenced Hugo Chavez’ political philosophy?
• What are the political and economic factors impacting Venezuela?
Reflective Questions:
• Do you think Chavez is a man of the people, doing good for Venezuela’s poor or just another caudillo?
• Have you ever been to Venezuela? What were your impressions? Was it during Chavez’ presidency?
More to Explore:
• Info on Venezuela: www.venezuelatuya.com
• Venezuela News: http://venezuelanalysis.com
• Venezuela News: http://english.eluniversal.com
Books For Further Reading:
• Nelson, Brian A. The Silence and the Scorpion. Nathan Books, 2009. 384 pages. Describes the 2002 coup against Chavez. Click here to order.
• Chavez, Hugo and Aleida Guevara. Chavez: Venezuela and the New Latin America (paperback). Ocean Press, 2005. 143 pages. Chavez’ story in his own words. Click here to order.
• Uzcategui, Rafael and Chaz Bufe. Venezuela: Revolution as Spectacle (paperback). Sharp Press, 2010. 232 pages. A critical look at the Chavez regime from the Venezuelan left. Click here to order.
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