Changes

Venezuela is divided in 23 states, a capital district and 72 federal dependencies. The capital city of Venezuela is [[Caracas]].

Venezuela is divided in 23 states, a capital district and 72 federal dependencies. The capital city of Venezuela is [[Caracas]].

The country rose to prominence after 1999, when the [[leftist]] [[dictator]] [[Hugo Chavez]] assumed power and started imposing what he calls "[[socialism]] of the 21st century", aligning himself with terrorist regimes like [[Iran]], and using his petrodollars to influence other countries in the region. After his death [[Nicolas Maduro]] continues the policies.

The country rose to prominence after 1999, when the [[leftist]] [[dictator]] [[Hugo Chavez]] assumed power and started imposing what he calls "[[socialism]] of the 21st century", aligning himself with terrorist regimes like [[Iran]], and using his petrodollars to influence other countries in the region. After Chavez's death in 2012, his successor [[Nicolas Maduro]] continued those policies until the socialist regime was ousted from power by the opposition Democratic Unity Roundtable, a coalition of conservative (including [[Christian democracy|Christian democratic]]), liberal and centrist parties, in the Venezuelan parliamentary elections on December 6, 2015.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/us-venezuela-election-idUSKBN0TP03Y20151208 Triumphant Venezuela opposition looks to boost economy, free prisoners]</ref>

==National symbols==

==National symbols==

The national flag was created by the Venezuelan hero [[Francisco de Miranda]] in 1806. It has three stripes with these colors: red, blue and red. Through the years the flag suffered variations in relation to the position and number of the stars. Actually there are eight stars on the flag and they are located in its center. The white stars symbolize eight former Venezuelan provinces (Caracas, Valencia, Barinas, Cumaná, Barcelona, Margarita, Mérida and Guayana) which became independent of Spain.

The national flag was created by the Venezuelan hero [[Francisco de Miranda]] in 1806. It has three stripes with these colors: red, blue and red. Through the years the flag suffered variations in relation to the position and number of the stars. Actually there are eight stars on the flag and they are located in its center. The white stars symbolize eight former Venezuelan provinces (Caracas, Valencia, Barinas, Cumaná, Barcelona, Margarita, Mérida and Guayana) which became independent of Spain.

''Gloria al bravo pueblo'' ("glory to the brave people") is the national anthem. It was an old patriotic song from the independence years written by Vicente Salias. Its music was composed by Juan José Landaeta. On 25th May 1881 Gloria al bravo pueblo was decreed as the anthem of Venezuela by the president Antonio Guzmán Blanco.  

''Gloria al bravo pueblo'' ("glory to the brave people") is the national anthem. It was an old patriotic song from the independence years written by Vicente Salias. Its music was composed by Juan José Landaeta. On May 25, 1881 Gloria al bravo pueblo was decreed as the anthem of Venezuela by the president Antonio Guzmán Blanco.  

El Turpial (''Icterus icterus'') is the national bird, the Araguaney (''Tabebuia chrysanta'') the national tree and the Orquídea (''Cattleya mossiae'') the national flower.

El Turpial (''Icterus icterus'') is the national bird, the Araguaney (''Tabebuia chrysanta'') the national tree and the Orquídea (''Cattleya mossiae'') the national flower.

Venezuela is the sixth-most populous country in Latin America, after Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina and Peru. About 85% of the population lives in urban areas in the northern portion of the country. While almost half of Venezuela's land area lies south of the Orinoco River in the states of Bolivar and Amazonas, this region contains only 5% of the population. The population of Venezuela is comprised of a combination of European, indigenous, and African heritages.  

Venezuela is the sixth-most populous country in Latin America, after Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina and Peru. About 85% of the population lives in urban areas in the northern portion of the country. While almost half of Venezuela's land area lies south of the Orinoco River in the states of Bolivar and Amazonas, this region contains only 5% of the population. The population of Venezuela is comprised of a combination of European, indigenous, and African heritages.  

*Population (Dec. 2009 est.): 28,385,627.

*Population (December 2009 est.): 28,385,627.

*Annual population growth: 1.6%.

*Annual population growth: 1.6%.

*Education: Years compulsory--9. Literacy--95%.

*Education: Years compulsory--9. Literacy--95%.

===Religion===

===Religion===

The majority of Venezuelan people are Christians. Catholic Church has the greater portion of followers. Other Christian churches in Venezuela are Lutherans, Anglicans, Pentecostals, Seventh Day Adventists, Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses. Some Muslims and Jews live in Venezuela. A synagogue and a mosque are situated in Caracas.  

The majority of Venezuelan people are Christians. The Catholic Church has the greater portion of followers. Other Christian churches in Venezuela are Lutherans, Anglicans, Pentecostals, Seventh Day Adventists, Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses. Some Muslims and Jews live in Venezuela. A synagogue and a mosque are situated in Caracas.  

   

   

===Languages===

===Languages===

==Government==

==Government==

[[Image:chavez.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Hugo Chavez]]

[[Image:chavez.jpg|200px|right|thumb|Hugo Chavez]]

The president is elected by a plurality vote with direct and universal suffrage. The term of office is 6 years, and a president may be re-elected to a single consecutive term. The president appoints the vice president. He decides the size and composition of the cabinet and makes appointments to it with the involvement of the National Assembly. Legislation can be initiated by the executive branch, the legislative branch (either a committee of the National Assembly or three members of the latter), the judicial branch, the citizen branch (ombudsman, public prosecutor, and controller general) or a public petition signed by no fewer than 0.1% of registered voters. The president can ask the National Assembly to reconsider portions of laws he finds objectionable, but a simple majority of the Assembly can override these objections.

The president is elected by a plurality vote with direct and universal suffrage. The term of office is six years, and a president may be re-elected to a single consecutive term. The president appoints the vice president. He decides the size and composition of the cabinet and makes appointments to it with the involvement of the National Assembly. Legislation can be initiated by the executive branch, the legislative branch (either a committee of the National Assembly or three members of the latter), the judicial branch, the citizen branch (ombudsman, public prosecutor, and controller general) or a public petition signed by no fewer than 0.1% of registered voters. The president can ask the National Assembly to reconsider portions of laws he finds objectionable, but a simple majority of the Assembly can override these objections.

The National Assembly is unicameral, consisting solely of the Chamber of Deputies. Deputies serve 5-year terms, and may be re-elected for a maximum of two additional terms. These legislative agents are elected by a combination of party list and single member constituencies. When the Congress is not in session, a delegated committee acts on matters relating to the executive and in oversight functions. In December 2005 pro-government parties took all 167 seats in the National Assembly after opposition parties boycotted the election over concerns with electoral conditions.

The National Assembly is unicameral, consisting solely of the Chamber of Deputies. Deputies serve five-year terms, and may be re-elected for a maximum of two additional terms. These legislative agents are elected by a combination of party list and single member constituencies. When the Congress is not in session, a delegated committee acts on matters relating to the executive and in oversight functions. In December 2005 pro-government parties took all 167 seats in the National Assembly after opposition parties boycotted the election over concerns with electoral conditions.

The Constitution designates three additional branches of the federal government--the judicial, citizen, and electoral branches.

The Constitution designates three additional branches of the federal government--the judicial, citizen, and electoral branches.

The judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ), which may meet either in specialized chambers (of which there are six) or in plenary session. The justices are appointed by the National Assembly and serve 12-year terms. Under the 1999 Constitution, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice is composed of 20 justices. The 1999 Constitution was amended in 2004, and the total number of justices was expanded by 12 to a total of 32. In December 2004, the National Assembly selected new judges to fill the expansion. The judicial branch also consists of lower courts, including district courts, municipal courts, and courts of first instance.  

The judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ), which may meet either in specialized chambers (of which there are six) or in plenary session. The justices are appointed by the National Assembly and serve 12-year terms. Under the 1999 Constitution, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice is composed of 20 justices. The 1999 Constitution was amended in 2004, and the total number of justices was expanded by 12 to a total of 32. In December 2004, the National Assembly selected new judges to fill the expansion. The judicial branch also consists of lower courts, including district courts, municipal courts, and courts of first instance.  

The citizens branch consists of three components--the attorney general ("fiscal general"), the "defender of the people" or ombudsman, and the comptroller general. The holders of these offices, in addition to fulfilling their specific functions, also act collectively as the "Republican Moral Council" to challenge before the Supreme Tribunal of Justice actions they believe are illegal, particularly those which violate the Constitution. The holders of the "citizen power" offices are selected for terms of 7 years by the National Assembly.

The citizens branch consists of three components--the attorney general ("fiscal general"), the "defender of the people" or ombudsman, and the comptroller general. The holders of these offices, in addition to fulfilling their specific functions, also act collectively as the "Republican Moral Council" to challenge before the Supreme Tribunal of Justice actions they believe are illegal, particularly those which violate the Constitution. The holders of the "citizen power" offices are selected for terms of seven years by the National Assembly.

The "Electoral Power," otherwise known as the National Electoral Council (Consejo Nacional Electoral or CNE), is responsible for organizing elections at all levels. Its five members are also elected to 7-year terms by the National Assembly. In the event of a hung vote in the National Assembly, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice can be called on to appoint the members.

The "Electoral Power," otherwise known as the National Electoral Council (Consejo Nacional Electoral or CNE), is responsible for organizing elections at all levels. Its five members are also elected to seven-year terms by the National Assembly. In the event of a hung vote in the National Assembly, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice can be called on to appoint the members.

===Principal Government Officials===

===Principal Government Officials===

Venezuela had belonged to the Andean Community of Nations since 1973. In 2006 the Venezuelan government withdrew the country from the bloc when two of its members (Colombia and [[Peru]]) signed free trade agreements with the United States.  

Venezuela had belonged to the Andean Community of Nations since 1973. In 2006 the Venezuelan government withdrew the country from the bloc when two of its members (Colombia and [[Peru]]) signed free trade agreements with the United States.  

Additionally President Chávez has proposed the creation of the [[Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas]] (ALBA), another international organization which would promote the cooperation between the Latin American and Caribbean republics. This bloc pretends to be the opposite to the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA), the organization proposed by the United States. At the moment Venezuela, [[Cuba]], [[Nicaragua]] and [[Bolivia]] are trying to apply the principles of the ALBA among themselves through an agreement called “Tratado de Comercio de los Pueblos/Peoples’ Trade Agreement” (TCP). [[Ecuador]] is considering joining the group.

Additionally President Chávez has proposed the creation of the [[Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas]] (ALBA), another international organization which would promote the cooperation between the Latin American and Caribbean republics. This bloc pretends to be the opposite to the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA), the organization proposed by the United States. At the moment Venezuela, [[Cuba]], [[Nicaragua]] and [[Bolivia]] are trying to apply the principles of the ALBA among themselves through an agreement called "Tratado de Comercio de los Pueblos/Peoples’ Trade Agreement" (TCP). [[Ecuador]] is considering joining the group.

{{Clear}}

{{Clear}}

President Chávez has promoted his "Bolivarian Revolution" as a model for other countries to follow. The policy calls for the establishment of a "multi-polar" world devoid of U.S. influence and for greater integration among developing countries. Venezuela is currently advocating regional integration through its PetroCaribe and PetroSur petroleum initiatives, the creation of a South American Community of Nations, and the establishment of the Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas (a social integration project proposed by President Chavez as an alternative to the Free Trade Area of the Americas). In April 2006, President Chávez announced he was withdrawing Venezuela from the Andean Community trade bloc. In July 2006, Venezuela officially joined the Southern Common Market, MERCOSUR. Before it can become a full member of MERCOSUR, Venezuela must conform to the trade bloc's economic regulations. Congressional approval by Brazil and Paraguay is also still outstanding. The Venezuelan Government maintains very close relations with Cuba and advocates an end to Cuba's isolation.  

President Chávez has promoted his "Bolivarian Revolution" as a model for other countries to follow. The policy calls for the establishment of a "multi-polar" world devoid of U.S. influence and for greater integration among developing countries. Venezuela is currently advocating regional integration through its PetroCaribe and PetroSur petroleum initiatives, the creation of a South American Community of Nations, and the establishment of the Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas (a social integration project proposed by President Chavez as an alternative to the Free Trade Area of the Americas). In April 2006, President Chávez announced he was withdrawing Venezuela from the Andean Community trade bloc. In July 2006, Venezuela officially joined the Southern Common Market, MERCOSUR. Before it can become a full member of MERCOSUR, Venezuela must conform to the trade bloc's economic regulations. Congressional approval by Brazil and Paraguay is also still outstanding. The Venezuelan Government maintains very close relations with Cuba and advocates an end to Cuba's isolation.  

[[File:Chavez ahmad.jpg|thumb|290px|left|Chavez and Ahmadineyad.]]

[[File:Chavez ahmad.jpg|thumb|290px|left|Chavez and Ahmadineyad.]]

Since 2005, President Chávez has deepened relations with Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism, by signing multiple economic and social accords and publicly supporting Iran's controversial nuclear program. President Chávez has also reached out to [[North Korea]], [[Belarus]], and [[Syria]]. The Venezuelans have also embarked on a worldwide effort to increase their presence in embassies overseas in Africa and Asia.  

Since 2005, President Chávez has deepened relations with Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism, by signing multiple economic and social accords and publicly supporting Iran's controversial nuclear program. President Chávez has also reached out to the anti-American and anti-West regimes of [[North Korea]], [[Belarus]] and [[Syria]]. The Venezuelans have also embarked on a worldwide effort to increase their presence in embassies overseas in Africa and Asia.  

President Chávez has also launched a major renovation of the Venezuelan Armed Forces by purchasing new advanced weaponry. In 2005-06, Venezuela purchased 100,000 AK-103 rifles from Russia and signed an agreement to construct a rifle and ammunition complex . Venezuela has also purchased dozens of Russian attack and transport helicopters, and has begun receiving 24 Russian Sukhoi Su-30MK 2-seat fighters. Venezuela has longstanding border disputes with Colombia-aggravated most recently by the capture of a Colombian insurgent leader inside Venezuela--and Guyana, but seeks in general to resolve them peacefully. Bilateral commissions have been established by Venezuela and Colombia to address a range of pending issues, including resolution of the maritime boundary in the Gulf of Venezuela. Relations with Guyana are complicated by Venezuela's claim to roughly three-quarters of Guyana's territory. Since 1987, the two countries have held exchanges on the boundary under the "good offices" of the United Nations.

President Chávez has also launched a major renovation of the Venezuelan Armed Forces by purchasing new advanced weaponry. In 2005-06, Venezuela purchased 100,000 AK-103 rifles from Russia and signed an agreement to construct a rifle and ammunition complex . Venezuela has also purchased dozens of Russian attack and transport helicopters, and has begun receiving 24 Russian Sukhoi Su-30MK 2-seat fighters. Venezuela has longstanding border disputes with Colombia-aggravated most recently by the capture of a Colombian insurgent leader inside Venezuela--and Guyana, but seeks in general to resolve them peacefully. Bilateral commissions have been established by Venezuela and Colombia to address a range of pending issues, including resolution of the maritime boundary in the Gulf of Venezuela. Relations with Guyana are complicated by Venezuela's claim to roughly three-quarters of Guyana's territory. Since 1987, the two countries have held exchanges on the boundary under the "good offices" of the United Nations.

===Relations with the United States===

===Relations with the United States===

[[File:Hugo Chávez on USS Yorktown 2002.jpg|thumb|Hugo Chávez on USS Yorktown, 2002.]]

[[File:Hugo Chávez on USS Yorktown 2002.jpg|thumb|Hugo Chávez on USS Yorktown, 2002.]]

U.S.-Venezuelan relations have been tense in recent years. President Hugo Chávez has continuously defined himself in opposition to the United States, using incendiary rhetoric to insult President Bush and senior administration officials. For example, in his September 2006 speech to the UN General Assembly, President Chávez called President Bush "the Devil" and other offensive names. The United States continues to seek constructive engagement with the Venezuelan Government, focusing on areas of technical cooperation. Major U.S. interests in Venezuela include promotion of U.S. exports and protection of U.S. investment, preservation of Venezuela's constitutional democracy, closer counter-narcotics cooperation, more vigorous efforts on counterterrorism, and continued access to petroleum.  

U.S.-Venezuelan relations have been tense in recent years. President Hugo Chávez has continuously defined himself in opposition to the United States, using inflammatory rhetoric to insult President Bush and senior administration officials. For example, in his September 2006 speech to the UN General Assembly, President Chávez called President Bush "the Devil" and other offensive names. The United States continues to seek constructive engagement with the Venezuelan Government, focusing on areas of technical cooperation. Major U.S. interests in Venezuela include promotion of U.S. exports and protection of U.S. investment, preservation of Venezuela's constitutional democracy, closer counter-narcotics cooperation, more vigorous efforts on counterterrorism, and continued access to petroleum.  

U.S.-Venezuelan commercial ties are deep. The United States is Venezuela's most important trading partner, representing about a third of imports and approximately 60 percent of Venezuelan exports. In turn, Venezuela is the United States' third-largest export market in Latin America, purchasing U.S. machinery, transportation equipment, agricultural commodities, and auto parts. Venezuela's opening of its petroleum sector to foreign investment in 1996 created extensive trade and investment opportunities for U.S. companies. As a result, Venezuela is one of the top four suppliers of foreign oil to the United States. The Department of State is committed to promoting the interests of U.S. companies in overseas markets. For contact information and a list of government publications, please go to the end of this document.  

U.S.-Venezuelan commercial ties are deep. The United States is Venezuela's most important trading partner, representing about a third of imports and approximately 60 percent of Venezuelan exports. In turn, Venezuela is the United States' third-largest export market in Latin America, purchasing U.S. machinery, transportation equipment, agricultural commodities, and auto parts. Venezuela's opening of its petroleum sector to foreign investment in 1996 created extensive trade and investment opportunities for U.S. companies. As a result, Venezuela is one of the top four suppliers of foreign oil to the United States. The Department of State is committed to promoting the interests of U.S. companies in overseas markets. For contact information and a list of government publications, please go to the end of this document.  

There is considerable income inequality. The Gini coefficient was 0.45 during 2006. According to government statistics, the percentages of poor and extremely poor among Venezuelan population were 33.9% and 23.2%, respectively, in 2006. These high ratios are due primarily to lower real wages earned by employees, and high rates of un- and underemployment.  On the other hand, the government of [[Hugo Chavez]] increased social spending and subsidised food and education. Under Chavez, the poverty rate also decreased from 55.1 percent in 2003 to 30.4 percent in 2006.<ref>[http://www.cepr.net/documents/publications/venezuela_2007_07.pdf The Venezuelan Economy in the Chávez Years]</ref>

There is considerable income inequality. The Gini coefficient was 0.45 during 2006. According to government statistics, the percentages of poor and extremely poor among Venezuelan population were 33.9% and 23.2%, respectively, in 2006. These high ratios are due primarily to lower real wages earned by employees, and high rates of un- and underemployment.  On the other hand, the government of [[Hugo Chavez]] increased social spending and subsidised food and education. Under Chavez, the poverty rate also decreased from 55.1 percent in 2003 to 30.4 percent in 2006.<ref>[http://www.cepr.net/documents/publications/venezuela_2007_07.pdf The Venezuelan Economy in the Chávez Years]</ref>

Starting January 1st 2008 Venezuela will adopt the "Bolívar Fuerte" as its new currency. The new Bolívar eliminates the three zeros of the older currency. For example, 50.000 Bolívars are equal to 50 Bolívar Fuertes.

Starting January 1, 2008 Venezuela will adopt the "Bolívar Fuerte" as its new currency. The new Bolívar eliminates the three zeros of the older currency. For example, 50,000 Bolívars are equal to 50 Bolívar Fuertes.

Although economic growth has been impressive, as a result of the oil windfall, many in the Venezuelan business community remain very concerned about President Chavez' vision for 21st Century Socialism and what it portends for the private sector.

Although economic growth has been impressive, as a result of the oil windfall, many in the Venezuelan business community remain very concerned about President Chavez' vision for 21st Century Socialism and what it portends for the private sector.

Economic prospects remain highly dependent on oil prices and the export of petroleum. In 2005, the oil sector accounted for roughly 15% of GDP, 90% of export earnings, and about half of the central government's ordinary revenues. Venezuela remains the fourth-leading supplier of imported crude and refined petroleum products to the United States. The Venezuelan government has sought more income from the petroleum sector. The first example was a unilateral decision in late 2004 to increase the royalty rate on production from the Orinoco heavy crude "strategic associations" with international oil companies from 1% to 16.67%.

Economic prospects remain highly dependent on oil prices and the export of petroleum. In 2005, the oil sector accounted for roughly 15% of GDP, 90% of export earnings, and about half of the central government's ordinary revenues. Venezuela remains the fourth-leading supplier of imported crude and refined petroleum products to the United States. The Venezuelan government has sought more income from the petroleum sector. The first example was a unilateral decision in late 2004 to increase the royalty rate on production from the Orinoco heavy crude "strategic associations" with international oil companies from 1% to 16.67%.

[[File:Plataforma gas venezuela oil.jpg|left]]

[[File:Plataforma gas venezuela oil.jpg|left]]

In the 1990’s, the Government of Venezuela opened up much of the hydrocarbon sector to foreign investment, promoting multi-billion dollar investment in heavy oil production, reactivation of old fields, and investment in several petrochemical joint ventures. By the late 1990s almost 60 foreign companies representing 14 different countries participated in one or more aspects of Venezuela's oil sector. On November 13, 2001, under an enabling law authorized by the National Assembly, President Chavez enacted a new Hydrocarbons Law, which came into effect in January 2002. This law replaced the Hydrocarbons Law of 1943 and the Nationalization Law of 1975. Among other things, the new law provided that all oil production and distribution activities would be the domain of the Venezuelan state, with the exception of the joint ventures targeting extra-heavy crude oil production. Under the new law, private investors cannot own 50% or more of the capital stock in joint ventures involved in upstream activities. The new law also provided that private investors could own up to 100% of the capital stock in downstream ventures. A Gaseous Hydrocarbons law promulgated earlier by the Chávez government also allowed substantial participation by private investors with respect to gas production ventures.  

In the 1990s, the Government of Venezuela opened up much of the hydrocarbon sector to foreign investment, promoting multi-billion dollar investment in heavy oil production, reactivation of old fields, and investment in several petrochemical joint ventures. By the late 1990s, almost 60 foreign companies representing 14 different countries participated in one or more aspects of Venezuela's oil sector. On November 13, 2001, under an enabling law authorized by the National Assembly, President Chavez enacted a new Hydrocarbons Law, which came into effect in January 2002. This law replaced the Hydrocarbons Law of 1943 and the Nationalization Law of 1975. Among other things, the new law provided that all oil production and distribution activities would be the domain of the Venezuelan state, with the exception of the joint ventures targeting extra-heavy crude oil production. Under the new law, private investors cannot own 50% or more of the capital stock in joint ventures involved in upstream activities. The new law also provided that private investors could own up to 100% of the capital stock in downstream ventures. A Gaseous Hydrocarbons law promulgated earlier by the Chávez government also allowed substantial participation by private investors with respect to gas production ventures.  

During the December 2002-February 2003 general strike, petroleum production and refining by PDVSA, the state-owned oil company, almost ceased. Despite the strike, these activities eventually were substantially restarted. Out of a total workforce of 45,000, over 20,000 PDVSA management and workers were subsequently dismissed because the government asserted they had abandoned their jobs during the strike. Current levels of production remain a subject of debate, with considerable difference between the levels cited by the Venezuelan government and those cited by private sector and international observers.  

During the December 2002-February 2003 general strike, petroleum production and refining by PDVSA, the state-owned oil company, almost ceased. Despite the strike, these activities eventually were substantially restarted. Out of a total workforce of 45,000, over 20,000 PDVSA management and workers were subsequently dismissed because the government asserted they had abandoned their jobs during the strike. Current levels of production remain a subject of debate, with considerable difference between the levels cited by the Venezuelan government and those cited by private sector and international observers.  

===Official Holidays===

===Official Holidays===

[[File:Simon Bolivar statue.jpg|thumb|[[Simon Bolivar]] statue.]]

[[File:Simon Bolivar statue.jpg|thumb|[[Simon Bolivar]] statue.]]

* Rebellion of Caracas, 19th April.

* Rebellion of Caracas, April 19.

* Battle of Carabobo, 24th June.

* Battle of Carabobo, June 24.

* Declaration of Independence, 5th July.

* Declaration of Independence, July 5.

* Simón Bolívar’s Birthday, 24th July.

* Simón Bolívar’s Birthday, July 24.

* Discovery of the American continent (similar to the Columbus’ Day), 12th October.

* Discovery of the American continent (similar to the Columbus’ Day), October 12.

* Simón Bolívar’s Death, 17th December.

* Simón Bolívar’s Death, December 17.

===Popular and Religious Holidays===

===Popular and Religious Holidays===

* New Year’s Day, 1st January.

* New Year’s Day, January 1.

* Carnivals, between February and March.  

* Carnivals, between February and March.  

* Holy Week (Easter), between March and April.

* Holy Week (Easter), between March and April.

* Worker’s Day (similar to the Labour Day), 1st May.

* Worker’s Day (similar to the American [[Labor Day]]), May 1.

* Christmas’ Eve, 24th December.

* Christmas’ Eve, December 24.

* Christmas’ Day, 25th December.

* Christmas’ Day, December 25.

* New Year’s Eve, 31st December.

* New Year’s Eve, December 31.

==Sports==

==Sports==

Venezuela has many newspapers, radio stations and TV channels, but the most important ones are located in Caracas.  

Venezuela has many newspapers, radio stations and TV channels, but the most important ones are located in Caracas.  

Some newspapers of Caracas are: ''El Universal'' (founded in 1909, conservative); ''El Nacional'' (founded in 1945, leftist, but no pro-government); ''Últimas Noticias'' (founded in 1943, leftist and pro-government); ''The Daily Journal'' (founded in 1945, an English language newspaper); ''El Mundo'' (founded in 1958); 2001 (founded in 1973); ''Meridiano'' (founded in 1969, a sports newspaper); ''El Nuevo País'' (founded in 1988) and ''Tal Cual''.

Some newspapers of Caracas are: ''El Universal'' (founded in 1909, conservative); ''El Nacional'' (founded in 1945, leftist, but not pro-government); ''Últimas Noticias'' (founded in 1943, leftist and pro-government); ''The Daily Journal'' (founded in 1945, an English language newspaper); ''El Mundo'' (founded in 1958); 2001 (founded in 1973); ''Meridiano'' (founded in 1969, a sports newspaper); ''El Nuevo País'' (founded in 1988) and ''Tal Cual''.

RCTV, Venevisión, Televén and Globovisión and Meridiano TV are private TV channels from Caracas. Venezolana de Televisión, VIVE, and TEVES are state-run TV stations.  

RCTV, Venevisión, Televén and Globovisión and Meridiano TV are private TV channels from Caracas. Venezolana de Televisión, VIVE, and TVes are state-run TV stations. Since 2007 under the Chavez regime, the state-run TVes has operated in place of the privately-owned RCTV in Venezuela since Chavez forced RCTV off the air and seized its broadcasting infrastructure for TVes by claiming that RCTV was a threat to his regime by supporting the 2002 coup attempt against him. The forced over-the-air closure of RCTV in favor of TVes drew heavy domestic and international criticism against the Chavez regime on the grounds of suppression of freedom of speech and freedom of the press, as well as an attempt by the regime to silence its critics.

Telesur is an international TV channel funded by the governments of Venezuela, Cuba, Brazil and Argentina. Its headquarters is located in Caracas. Its missions are to offer a new vision of Latin America (according to the viewpoint of those governments) to the rest of the world and to counteract the influence of US media in the American continent.  

Telesur is an international TV channel funded by the governments of Venezuela, Cuba, Brazil and Argentina. Its headquarters is located in Caracas. Its missions are to offer a new vision of Latin America (according to the viewpoint of those governments) to the rest of the world and to counteract the influence of US media in the American continent.  

In today’s Venezuela, independent journalists are sometimes arrested and frequently fined and harassed in an effort to intimidate those who speak against the Chavez regime.

In today’s Venezuela, independent journalists are sometimes arrested and frequently fined and harassed in an effort to intimidate those who speak against the Chavez regime.

The Chavez government has bullied the remaining independent media into self-censorship, and does not want the press to reveal the inefficiencies of his government. He has gone to great lengths to bar journalists of privately-owned, independent media from covering government hearings, and he now requires stations to use government producers for documentaries and programs.

The Chavez regime has bullied the remaining independent media into self-censorship, and does not want the press to reveal the inefficiencies of his government. He has gone to great lengths to bar journalists of privately-owned, independent media from covering government hearings, and he now requires stations to use government producers for documentaries and programs.

==History==

==History==

===The Referendum Process===  

===The Referendum Process===  

In September 2003, after an impasse in the National Assembly, the Supreme Court named a new board of directors for the National Electoral Council (CNE). After months of intense deliberations that included two conflictive signature drives overseen by the CNE, political riots over the government's disqualification of questionable signatures, and the intervention of international electoral observers, the CNE certified the opposition's results and set the date of the recall referendum for August 15, 2004. According to the CNE, President Chavez won 59% of the vote. His opponents immediately contested that the results of the referendum were marked by electoral fraud. However, international electoral observation missions carried out by the Organization of American States and the Carter Center found no indication of systemic fraud.

In September 2003, after an impasse in the National Assembly, the Supreme Court named a new board of directors for the National Electoral Council (CNE). After months of intense deliberations that included two conflicting signature drives overseen by the CNE, political riots over the government's disqualification of questionable signatures, and the intervention of international electoral observers, the CNE certified the opposition's results and set the date of the recall referendum for August 15, 2004. According to the CNE, President Chavez won 59% of the vote. His opponents immediately contested that the results of the referendum were marked by electoral fraud. However, international electoral observation missions carried out by the Organization of American States and the Carter Center found no indication of systemic fraud.

===From Referendum To Elections===  

===From Referendum To Elections===  

=== Constitutional referendum 2007 ===

=== Constitutional referendum 2007 ===

On August 15, President Chávez proposed a package of 33 articles to reform the 1999 Constitution. On 11th September the National Assembly enlarged the amount of amendments with other 36 articles, increasing in 69 the number of articles to be voted in the referendum. Finally the National Assembly passed the reform on 2nd November.

On August 15, President Chávez proposed a package of 33 articles to reform the 1999 Constitution. On 11th September the National Assembly enlarged the amount of amendments with other 36 articles, increasing in 69 the number of articles to be voted in the referendum. Finally the National Assembly passed the reform on 2nd November.

<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7076076.stm  Venezuela assembly passes reforms], ''BBC News'', 2nd November 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>.  

<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7076076.stm  Venezuela assembly passes reforms], ''BBC News'', November 2, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.  

The proposals were divided into two blocks: block “A” and block “B”. Some of the amendments are:

The proposals were divided into two blocks: block "A" and block "B". Some of the amendments are:

* Indefinite presidential re-election.

* Indefinite presidential re-election.

* The presidential term will be increased from six to seven years.

* The presidential term will be increased from six to seven years.

* Five types of property are proposed: public, social, collective, mixed, and private property. The Venezuelan State is to govern four of these new five types of property, as it intends to play a role as owner, partner, and financer.

* Five types of property are proposed: public, social, collective, mixed, and private property. The Venezuelan State is to govern four of these new five types of property, as it intends to play a role as owner, partner, and financier.

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/10/01/en_eco_art_venezuelan-state-to_01A1086237.shtml  Venezuelan state to govern four types of property], ''El Universal'', 1st October 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>.

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/10/01/en_eco_art_venezuelan-state-to_01A1086237.shtml  Venezuelan state to govern four types of property], ''El Universal'', October 1, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

* Creation of federal territories ruled by vice presidents. The heads of federal territories will be appointed by the President of Venezuela.  

* Creation of federal territories ruled by vice presidents. The heads of federal territories will be appointed by the President of Venezuela.  

* Autonomy of the central bank will be concluded.

* Autonomy of the central bank will be concluded.

The constitutional reform was rejected by the opposition to considered it as an attempt of President Chávez to rule the country indefinitely and to create a socialist economy. Marches against the reform were done in many parts of Venezuela. A major role in the protests was played by university students.  

The constitutional reform was rejected by the opposition to considered it as an attempt of President Chávez to rule the country indefinitely and to create a socialist economy. Marches against the reform were done in many parts of Venezuela. A major role in the protests was played by university students.  

<ref>[http://www.economist.com/displayStory.cfm?story_id=10136480  Challenging Chávez-for-life, A new kind of opposition], ''The Economist'', 15th November 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>. Some supporters of Mr. Chávez such as the allied party ''PODEMOS'', ''Raúl Baduel'' (his ex- Defense Minister) and ''Marisabel Rodríguez'' (his ex-wife) rejected the reform and called the electors to vote against the reform.  

<ref>[http://www.economist.com/displayStory.cfm?story_id=10136480  Challenging Chávez-for-life, A new kind of opposition], ''The Economist'', November 15, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. Some supporters of Mr. Chávez such as the allied party ''PODEMOS'', ''Raúl Baduel'' (his ex- Defense Minister) and ''Marisabel Rodríguez'' (his ex-wife) rejected the reform and called the electors to vote against the reform.  

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/11/05/en_refco_art_former-defense-minis_05A1174277.shtml  Former Defense Minister rejects constitutional reform], ''El Universal'', 5th November 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>.

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/11/05/en_refco_art_former-defense-minis_05A1174277.shtml  Former Defense Minister rejects constitutional reform], ''El Universal'', November 5, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

<ref>[http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article2983752.ece  Ex-wife damns Hugo Chavez ‘coup’], ''The Sunday Times'', 2nd  December 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>.  

<ref>[http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article2983752.ece  Ex-wife damns Hugo Chavez ‘coup’], ''The Sunday Times'', December 2, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.  

On 2nd December 50 % of electors voted against the constitutional reform while 49 % of electors voted in favor. <ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/03/en_refco_art_venezuelans-said-no_03A1240957.shtml    Venezuelans said “no” to Chávez’s planned reform], ''El Universal'', 3rd December 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>. The reform was rejected in seven important Venezuelan states, based on the number of voters, namely Zulia, Miranda, Carabobo, Lara, Anzoátegui, and the Capital District (Caracas).  

On 2nd December 50 % of electors voted against the constitutional reform while 49 % of electors voted in favor. <ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/03/en_refco_art_venezuelans-said-no_03A1240957.shtml    Venezuelans said “no” to Chávez’s planned reform], ''El Universal'', December 3, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. The reform was rejected in seven important Venezuelan states, based on the number of voters, namely Zulia, Miranda, Carabobo, Lara, Anzoátegui, and the Capital District (Caracas).  

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/04/en_refco_art_states-of-zulia,-mir_04A1243797.shtml    States of Zulia, Miranda and Táchira played a decisive role], ''El Universal'', 4th December 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>. It is the first time since Mr. Chávez won power in 1998 that the current government loses at the polls.  

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/04/en_refco_art_states-of-zulia,-mir_04A1243797.shtml    States of Zulia, Miranda and Táchira played a decisive role], ''El Universal'', December 4, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. It is the first time since Chávez won power in 1998 that the current government lost at the polls.  

Abstention, which was more than 44 %, is considered an important factor of the government defeat. It is thought many supporters of Chávez refrained from voting, because they were not in agreement with the reform.  

Abstention, which was more than 44 %, is considered an important factor of the government defeat. It is thought many supporters of Chávez refrained from voting, because they were not in agreement with the reform.  

<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1690507,00.html?imw=Y    Why Venezuelans Turned on Chavez], By Gould, Jens Erik, ''Time'', 3rd December 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>.

<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1690507,00.html?imw=Y    Why Venezuelans Turned on Chavez], By Gould, Jens Erik, ''Time'', December 3, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

President Chávez recognized the results, but he announced to the nation that another referendum to modify the constitution will be proposed again in the future. The previous statement was said by the Venezuelan president again on 5th December.  

President Chávez recognized the results, but he announced to the nation that another referendum to modify the constitution will be proposed again in the future. The previous statement was said by the Venezuelan president again on December 5.  

<ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_chavez-announces-sec_05A1247117.shtml  Chávez launches second offensive to pass reform to the Constitution], ''El Universal'', 6th December 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>. The National Assembly decided to join the presidential efforts to keep the proposal alive. <ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_parliament-insists-o_05A1245643.shtml    Parliament insists on advancing Chávez’s defeated reform], ''El Universal'', 5th December 2007. Retrieved on 13th December 2007.</ref>.

<ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_chavez-announces-sec_05A1247117.shtml  Chávez launches second offensive to pass reform to the Constitution], ''El Universal'', December 6, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. The National Assembly decided to join the presidential efforts to keep the proposal alive. <ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_parliament-insists-o_05A1245643.shtml    Parliament insists on advancing Chávez’s defeated reform], ''El Universal'', December 5, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

==Famous Venezuelans==

==Famous Venezuelans==

[[Category:Venezuela]]

[[Category:Venezuela]]

[[Category:Christian-Majority Countries]]

[[Category:Christian-Majority Countries]]

[Category:Spanish Empire]]

[[Category:Spanish Empire]]