Venezuela Declares Independence
On July 5, 1811, Venezuela declared its independence from Spain, marking a significant moment in South American history as it became the first nation on the continent to break away from Spanish colonial rule. This day is now recognized as a public holiday in Venezuela, symbolizing the country's quest for self-determination. The region, located on the northern coast of South America, was initially explored by Europeans in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, leading to Spanish colonization beginning in 1520. By the late 18th century, growing dissatisfaction among native-born Venezuelans regarding their exclusion from local governance contributed to calls for independence. The declaration was part of a broader revolutionary movement, with notable support from Simón Bolívar, a key figure in Latin American independence. Following years of struggle and the weakening of Spanish forces due to the Napoleonic Wars, Venezuelan rebels achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Carabobo on June 24, 1821, solidifying their independence. Today, this historical event is foundational to Venezuela's national identity and narrative of resistance.
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Venezuela Declares Independence
Venezuela Declares Independence
On July 5, 1811, what would ultimately become the modern nation of Venezuela declared its independence from Spain. In so doing it became the first South American nation to declare independence from that European country, which at the time ruled most of South America. July 5 of every year is now a public holiday in Venezuela in honor of this historic occasion.
Venezuela is located on the northern coast of South America and has a population of approximately 24 million. Roughly 2 million live in the capital and largest city of Caracas. Venezuela was first discovered by Europeans in 1498 when Christopher Columbus sighted it during one of his voyages of discovery. Spanish exploration began in 1499 under Alonso de Ojeda, and colonization began in 1520. Caracas was founded in 1567. Over the years there were various administrative reorganizations within the Spanish Empire, but the territory of what is now roughly modern Venezuela began to emerge by the late 18th century. Frustrated by the Spanish government's failure to permit native-born Venezuelans much meaningful participation in local rule, and mindful of other grievances concerning Spain's rule, Venezuelan patriots staged a coup on July 5, 1811, and declared independence.
It took many years for the Venezuelan rebels to defeat the Spanish armies sent against them. However, they were supported by the famous revolutionary leader Simon Bolívar. Further, Spain had been weakened by years of French occupation during the Napoleonic Wars. Victory was finally achieved on June 24, 1821, when the Venezuelans defeated the Spanish at the Battle of Carabobo.