History of Venezuelan Lapses: Caudillism, Civil Wars, and Political Leaders
Review of Venezuelan History: Lapses, Caudillism, and Civil Wars
Caudillism and Civil War
Leadership is a phenomenon driven by individuals who, through their knowledge, fortune, or charisma, gain the support of citizens. Venezuela’s history is marked by periods of civil war.
Civil Wars
Venezuela has experienced significant periods of internal conflict. These wars shaped the nation’s development and influenced the techniques employed in subsequent revolutions.
Classification of Venezuelan Caudillos
Independentista Caudillos (1813-1824)
These leaders emerged during the Revolutionary War, driven by the desperate conditions in Venezuela. Key figures include Bolívar, Marino, Urdaneta, and Páez.
Political Caudillos (1830-1900)
Dominant during the Fourth Republic, these leaders established their influence within various government roles. Notable figures include Páez (in his political phase), the Monagas brothers, Guzmán Blanco, and Juan Vicente Gómez.
Social Caudillos (1830-1900)
These individuals emerged from the populace to serve and benefit their communities. Examples include Ezequiel Zamora, El Mocho Hernández, and Joaquín Crespo.
The Modern Leader (1928-Present)
This represents the contemporary expression of the caudillo. Key figures include Rómulo Betancourt, Jovito Villalba, Rafael Caldera, and Hugo Chávez.
Federal War (1859-1863)
This war began with the Grito de Coro on February 20, 1859, and ended with the Treaty of Coche on April 23, 1863. The war led to the establishment of a federal government under Juan Crisóstomo Falcón in May 1863.
Blue Revolution
The implementation of the federal system resulted in various issues within public administration. The autonomy of states led to unrest and conflicts. President Falcón’s retreat to Paraguay exacerbated the situation.
Restoring Revolution (1899)
This politico-military movement, led by Cipriano Castro and Juan Vicente Gómez, lasted from May 23 to October 24, 1899, culminating in the Restorers’ triumphant entry into Caracas and the establishment of their government.
Ideology and Political Parties
Ideology, a set of ideas that influence societal evolution, played a crucial role in Venezuelan history. Liberal ideas from the French Revolution significantly impacted the pursuit of freedom in South America.
Political Parties
Following the end of dictatorial rule, the Venezuelan people lacked organized political forces. A leader was needed to channel these forces.
Communist Party of Venezuela (PCV)
Communist doctrine in Venezuela began with the Progressive Republican Party (PRP). Later, it merged with the National Democratic Party (NDP). Key figures include Gustavo and Eduardo Machado.
Democratic Action (AD)
Founded on September 23, 1941, AD is a moderate leftist organization advocating for social democracy. It emerged from the Venezuelan Organization (ORVE) after the dictator’s death in 1936.
Independent Political Electoral Organization Committee (COPEI)
Founded on January 13, 1946, COPEI is a social Christian party. Key founders include Rafael Caldera, Lorenzo Fernández, and Pedro del Corral.
Presidencies and Key Events
First Presidency of José Antonio Páez (1830-1834)
Páez faced a revolt led by José Tadeo Monagas aiming to re-establish Gran Colombia.
Interim President Carlos Soublette (1836-1839)
Soublette’s presidency involved conflicts with the Catholic Church and a significant economic crisis.
Second Presidency of José Antonio Páez (1839-1843)
This term was marked by a severe economic and social crisis, leading to the emergence of the Liberal opposition movement.
Second Term of Carlos Soublette (1843-1846)
Soublette’s second term saw political tolerance and a focus on economic recovery.
First Presidency of José Tadeo Monagas (1847-1851)
Monagas inherited an economic crisis and faced conflicts with Páez.
Second Presidency of José Tadeo Monagas (1855-1858)
Monagas’s attempts to reform the constitution for re-election led to a political crisis and his eventual overthrow.
Manuel Felipe Tovar
Tovar served brief terms and was the first president elected by popular vote.
First Government of Carlos Andrés Pérez (1974-1979)
Pérez focused on oil revenue management, wage increases, and agricultural development.
Second Government of Carlos Andrés Pérez (1989-1993)
This term was marked by economic crisis, social unrest (Caracazo), coup attempts, and Pérez’s impeachment.
Presidency of Rafael Caldera
Presidential Candidate to the Republic for 6 times, and was elected on 2 of them.
COPEI chooses him as its candidate in presidential elections to be held in December 1947, which finally comes second.
On January 23, 1958 finds him in exile, where he returns to contribute to the stabilization and consolidation with Rómulo Betancourt and Jovito Villalba, the Venezuelan democratic system. In presidential elections December 7, 1958, came in third place vote. In 1963 COPEI presented again Caldera’s candidacy for elections in December this year, giving second place this time. Finally as a candidate for the fourth time as President of the Republic, a hit in 1968.
The most significant initiatives of his administration: education reform, the nationalization of gas and the regionalization of development, the housing programs and popular promotion and so-called “Conquest of the South”.
On February 2, 1994 took office as President for the second time (in 1983 unsuccessfully participated. The priorities of his second term were directed to restore the harmony of a nation shaken by two coup attempts in 1992, trying recovery from the economic crisis.
He died in Caracas on 24 December 2009, at age 93 after suffering for years from Parkinson’s disease.