VENEZUELA HISTORY TODAY

The country of Venezuela is striking.  Of all South American countries, this one has the most dramatic contrast between the Amazon jungles to the south, the beautiful snowcapped Andes Mountains to the west, white, pristine beaches of the Caribbean coastline, and the fascinating Gran Sabana plateau to the east.  This type of diversity also means that Venezuela offers a huge array of places to go and things to do. 

For instance, this country boasts the largest lake in all of South America called Lake Maracaibo.  In addition, the Orinoco is the third-longest river and Angel Falls is the world’s highest waterfall.  This type of diversity of topography also means tons of flora and fauna.  There, you will discover magnificent exotic plants and animals such as ocelot, tapir, jaguar, anteater, armadillo, and of course, the anaconda, the world’s longest snake.  Therefore, if you want to experience South America at its finest, do not overlook all that Venezuela has to offer. 

During the time of the Spanish Conquest, it is estimated that half a million people lived in Venezuela, broken down by various ethnic groups such as Chibcha, Arawak, and Cariban.  Although many people would eventually make their way to this country, Christopher Columbus first arrived but the famous explorer Alonso de Ojeda was the person that gave the country its original name, Little Venice.  BY 1521, the first Spanish settlement had been founded. 

At first, the aboriginal tribes fought back against the Spanish and Germans, leaving vast destruction and death to follow as they searched for El Dorado.  The result however was being subdued, primarily because of European disease to include the horrific disease smallpox.  In fact, disease was responsible for wiping out about 35% of the Caracas Valley population alone.  Without much wealth in the country, the colony was soon neglected.  As you can imagine, tremendous resentment grew along American born, Spanish privileged. 

Eventually, Simon Bolivar, who was known locally as El Libertador threw out Spanish leaders, seizing Venezuela from Spain.  This victory in 1821 at Campo Carabodo helped the British mercenaries a well as horsemen from Los Llanos.  Since Bolivar provided Colombia with freedom, he pushed forward along with Antonio Jose de Sucre to free Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru.  In fact, his goal was to unit Gran Colombia, which in turn, would help bring unity to Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela.  Sadly, Bolivar died in 1830 at the time when Venezuela declared independence under its new constitution. 

Then by 1910, a discovery was made of massive oil reserves located in the Maracaibo Basin, which brought a level of prosperity to Venezuela.  Then sometime in the 1920’s, this country had a reputation for being the largest oil exporter in the world.  Unfortunately, the residents of Venezuela saw little of it.  This meant the people were living in poverty, trying to deal with health and educational facilities in a horrific state.  This resulted in many riots, which lead to Venezuela’s fist democratic election in 1947. 

From that time forward, Venezuela was given a black eye for corruption and scandals.  Then in 1988, the economy dropped dramatically when oil prices plummeted and even today, this part of the country remains a little unstable.  Venezuela has gone through several changes politically but the people continue to fight for the good things in life.  The current President, Hugo Chavez, was re-elected and the country continues to build. 

Although the primary language spoken is Spanish, you will actually discover more than 25 indigenous dialects, as well as English in some of the urban locations.  Popular aspects of the country include handicrafts and visual arts.  However, the music is what is at the heart and soul of Venezuela.  For this, you will discover a unique, eclectic blend that includes rhythms of African, European, and Indigenous.  Another area of art that is growing quickly is theater along with literacy. 

Like most South American countries, Venezuela has wonderful food.  The flavors are robust and unforgettable.  For instance, a staple, known as Comida Criolla, is a conglomeration of pancakes, pork, chicken, beef, stew, and soup.  When traveling through Venezuela on a budget, watch for restaurants that offer Menu del Dia, which means a set meal of soup and a main course at a very reasonable price.  Some of the local favorites include Empanadas, which are deep-friend cornmeal turnovers filled with meat, cheese, and beans, as well as occasionally shark.  Another wonderful dish is called Pabellon Criollo, which is shredded beef, black beans, cheese, rice, and fried plantain. 

Located on the north coast of South America just to the north of Brazil and then in between Guyana and Colombia, the country is comprised of 30% grassland.  The climate in Venezuela is mostly tropical, which means warm temperature along the coastline and only a slight variation between temperatures from one region to another region.  However, the amount of rainfall does vary, which actually accounts for the definition of the climate zones.  When visiting, remember that the dry season begins in December and runs to April while the wet season occurs during the remainder of the year. 

Throughout the year, there are many wonderful and colorful festivals such as Carnaval, Battle of Carabodo, Bolivar’s Birthday, and Discovery of America, all public holidays.  In addition, Venezuela offers many great attractions.  For instance, there is Caracas, a stunning valley that is the capital city.  There, close to five million people live and some of the country’s most incredible modern architecture can be seen.  Then you have Sierra Nevada de Merida, the mountains at the northernmost tip of the famous Andes.  Another great area is the Caribbean coast, which is the perfect spot for swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, sailing, fishing, or simply soaking up some of the warm, Venezuelan sun.