History and Political Development of Venezuela
1. The Dissolution of Gran Colombia
Importance
The dissolution of Gran Colombia marked a significant turning point in the War of Independence. It established new strategic and political objectives. The union of Venezuela and New Granada brought together Venezuelan and Neogranadine patriots who had been fighting for their respective independence movements. Now united, they fought for the liberation of a much larger territory.
Consequences
The dissolution led to regional rivalries and political conflicts that shook Gran Colombia. Its ten years of internal crisis saw various reactions against the Constitution of Cúcuta and the central government in Bogotá.
2. Comparison of the 1961 and 1999 Venezuelan Constitutions
Similarities
- The 1961 Constitution was divided into four parts, including a preamble invoking God’s protection and honoring Simón Bolívar and other important national figures.
- The dogmatic part established democracy, independence, and a federal form of government as cornerstones of the Venezuelan state.
Differences
- The 1961 Constitution recognized only Castilian as the official language, unlike the 1999 Constitution, which also recognizes indigenous languages.
- The Venezuelan state was divided into states, a federal district, federal territories, and federal agencies.
- Dual citizenship was not recognized. Venezuelans who obtained another nationality automatically lost their Venezuelan citizenship.
3. Economic Structure of Venezuela
Colonial Period
Venezuela’s social and economic life during the colonial period mirrored Spanish society. Spain appropriated the products created by Venezuelan laborers through taxes and other benefits. The independence movement was a reaction by Creole landowners and merchants who felt economically constrained and aspired to gain political power to serve their interests.
Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution in Europe significantly impacted Venezuela’s economy. This revolution marked a shift from manual manufacturing to mechanized industry.
Production Sectors and Factors of Production
- Land: The primary factor in Venezuela’s agricultural economy was monopolized by a small number of owners.
- Labor: Fieldwork was done by enslaved people until 1854 and later by farmers who cultivated land and paid for outside work.
- Latifundio: Large estates characterized by pre-capitalist production relations.
4. Venezuelan Social Structure
Social Classes
- Landowners: Owners or possessors of land or farms.
- Bourgeoisie: A social group defined by its role in the mode of production, its position in production structures, and its specific production relationships with other classes.
- Artisans: Skilled craft workers.
- Peasants: Members of a rural agrarian community or those isolated on large estates.
Abolition of Slavery
The abolition of slavery was a long process that began with the Wall and Spain movement in 1797 and culminated in the abolition law of 1854. President José Gregorio Monagas supported this law, which was debated in Congress.
5. Venezuela’s Political Process
Paez’s Hegemony
This period, known as Paez’s rule, saw him exert direct and indirect influence. It was characterized by caudillismo (strongman rule) and struggles between soldiers and civilians. Paez assumed dictatorial powers and signed the Treaty of Coche in 1863, initiating talks between the government and the opposition to negotiate peace and end the Federal War.
José Tadeo Monagas’s Government
José Tadeo Monagas served as president three times. He and his brother, José Gregorio Monagas, established a dynastic strongman regime representing liberal interests. His first term (1847-1851) was marked by a break with conservative groups, the implementation of measures considered arbitrary by his opponents, and the assault on Congress in 1848, leading to the imposition of personal power.
Conflicts between Liberals and Conservatives
- Liberals advocated for the abolition of the death penalty and direct voting.
- Conservatives supported the death penalty and indirect voting.
Government of Juan Crisóstomo Falcón
Falcón’s government was marked by mismanagement and the use of public funds for personal gain. The Blue Revolution of late 1867, launched in the east, aimed to reconcile Liberals and Conservatives.