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Declaration of Independence
Venezuela became the first Spanish American colony to declare independence from Spain, forming the First Republic. The movement was led by figures like Francisco de Miranda and Simón Bolívar. However, internal conflicts and a lack of strong military support made the republic vulnerable. This declaration was a bold step in the Latin American independence movement, inspiring other colonies. However, Venezuela was not yet fully prepared to defend its sovereignty, leading to Spanish reconquest. -
Spanish Reconquest & the Fall of the First Republic
In 1812, a massive earthquake devastated Caracas and other cities, causing many to believe independence was cursed. Meanwhile, Spanish forces under Domingo de Monteverde took advantage of the instability and recaptured Venezuela. Francisco de Miranda surrendered, leading to the collapse of the First Republic. This showed the fragility of the independence movement and the need for better organization. Simón Bolívar and other revolutionaries fled but later regrouped for future campaigns. -
Bolívar’s Admirable Campaign
Simón Bolívar launched a military campaign from Colombia to liberate Venezuela. His forces won key battles, and he entered Caracas as a hero, restoring the Second Republic. Bolívar issued the Decree of War to the Death, calling for harsh measures against Spanish loyalists. This campaign demonstrated Bolívar’s leadership and determination. However, the Second Republic was short-lived as internal divisions and royalist resistance led to its fall in 1814. -
Battle of Carabobo
This battle was a decisive confrontation between Bolívar’s independence forces and Spanish royalists. Bolívar, with support from key generals like José Antonio Páez, achieved a decisive victory, leading to the liberation of Caracas and most of Venezuela. Carabobo secured Venezuela’s independence and contributed to the collapse of Spanish rule in northern South America. It also strengthened Bolívar’s vision of uniting newly freed territories under Gran Colombia. -
Dissolution of Gran Colombia & Venezuela’s Separation
Gran Colombia faced deep political disagreements. Many Venezuelans, led by José Antonio Páez, opposed Bolívar’s centralized rule. In 1830, Venezuela officially separated, and Páez became its first president. Bolívar, disillusioned, retired and died later that year. This event marked Venezuela’s true beginning as an independent republic. However, the country struggled with political instability, as military leaders like Páez dominated politics. -
Revolt of the Reformists
In 1835, José María Vargas, a civilian intellectual, was elected president. However, military leaders, unhappy with his policies, launched a coup. Vargas was briefly exiled but later returned to power. Páez, despite stepping down from the presidency, remained influential behind the scenes. This revolt revealed the ongoing conflict between civilian governments and military leaders. It set a precedent for future instability, where caudillos often intervened in politics.