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President Perez of Venezuela State Visit 4/24/90 [OA 8311] [1]
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President Perez of Venezuela State Visit 4/24/90 [OA 8311] [1]
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S, 2009-0704-F
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron Files, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13716
Folder ID Number:
13716-002
Folder Title:
President Perez of Venezuela State Visit 4/24/90 [OA 8311] [1]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
20
5
4
4's - ao per conversation
w/ Jeb Burh, 4/18/90.
[p.1, TOAST]
McGroarty/Dooley
April 18, 1990
9:00 am
Sharon 2703 we
[VENEZ]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ARRIVAL STATMENT FOR OFFICIAL VISIT OF
PRESIDENT PEREZ OF VENEZUELA
THE SOUTH LAWN
APRIL 26, 1990
XX:00 AM
Welcome, all of you. // It is my great honor to welcome
state Dept
the head of state of South America's oldest democracy -- and one
of Latin America's most respected statesmen -- Carlos Andres
Perez, President of Venezuela. //
And I am especially pleased that we welcome him today.
Johnson
President Perez has come here from Managua -- just hours after Dorth
attending the inauguration of Violeta Chamorro as the new
ebgh
President of Nicaragua -- // democratic Nicaragua. A great day
342-3815
for democracy -- and a great advance for the cause of freedom in
3611-6130
OEIG.
our hemisphere.
364-
President Perez, on the morning after Nicaragua's recent
elections, I called you to discuss the stunning victory the
NGA speech aD
Nicaraguan people had won at the ballot box. I called to confer
2/26/90
2214
with you because I knew how long and hard you worked to bring
The Vener
democracy to Nicaragua.
From the final days of the Somoza regime -- to your efforts
on behalf of
as a participant in the Contadora Group -- and now to the moment
of freedom's triumph, your deep personal commitment to the
advance of democracy has never wavered.
2
Today, another nation has joined freedom's ranks. For the
people of all the Americas this is a time to celebrate. More
than that -- it is a time to dedicate ourselves to the day,
perhaps not so distant, when all the people of this hemisphere
live in freedom. //
Mr. President, in just a few moments, we will move inside to
the Oval Office and begin our consultations. But before we do,
let me say a few words about the new course your nation has
chosen -- about the changes your nation is making in its economic
orientation. And about Venezuela's version of what I hear you
call Perez-troika.
//
In the past year, we've seen the thirst for freedom
transform the world. With that unquenchable desire for political
freedom has come a realization that freedom is also the key to
economic development.
From Moscow to Managua, we've witnessed a shift -- from the
teachings of Marx to the lessons of the free market. // That
shift parallels the one you've begun in Venezuela -- by stripping
away the layers of state control that stifled development, in
favor of free market principles that -- experience proves --
provide fertile ground for growth.
I know this transition -- with its difficult short-term
effects -- has meant hardship for the people of Venezuela. But
it is the kind of new beginning that will lay the foundations for
future growth. // It is not an easy path -- but it is the only
path to prosperity and better lives for all Venezuelans.
3
That's why I'm pleased to see that Venezuela and its main
creditors have reached agreement on a plan for dealing with the
debt burden -- a plan that opens the way for opportunity and
growth. With this agreement, Venezuela can take the next step
forward -- toward economic vitality, and growing prosperity for
a
all its people. And that, Mr. President, is not only a testiment
to to Venezuelan energy and enterprise -- but to your vision and
courage. //
On behalf of all Americans, Mr. President, it is my great
pleasure to meet with you here at the White House. // Once
again, welcome -- and may God bless the Republic of Venezuela.
# # #
Alan yak
McGroarty/Dooley
647-4216 647- 4216
April 18, 1989
9:00 am
[VENEZ.TST]
Venezuala desk @ state
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TOAST AT THE STATE DINNER IN HONOR OF
PRESIDENT PEREZ
THE WHITE HOUSE
APRIL 26, 1989
7:30 PM
Mr. President. Distinguished guests. Friends of Venezuela:
Barbara and I are delighted to share this evening together. //
It's always a pleasure to host a visiting head of state, but the
pleasure is even greater when there are personal ties involved.
And Mr. President, that's true in the case of Venezuela. // My
son Jeb -- who's here with us tonight -- lived and worked in your
[dening your first term as Pres.]
country. My friend and classmate of many years ago, Alberto
Vollmer of Venezuela, is also here tonight.
And of course, Barbara and I had the opportunity to visit
your country and meet with you, while I was Vice President, back
in 1981 -- and we gratefully accept your invitation to return to
out!
Don Johnson
Venezuela later this year.
ebst
The key to the good relations we enjoy is that our two
nations share a common love of freedom. We agree that no system
is better than democracy at securing the peace and prosperity all
nations seek. That no system is better suited to respect basic
human rights -- or provides a better home to human aspirations.
Those shared values form the basis of our friendship. Even our
occasional disagreements take place within the broad bounds of
democracy, in an atmosphere of mutual respect. ///
Mr. President, you are one of Latin America's great
statesmen -- and I hope you won't mind that I share with our
guests tonight conclusive proof of your stature -- proof provided
President can serve a second term -- not, that is, without first
background notos
state Dept.
by Venezuela's Constitution. According to its provisions, no
waiting 10 years.
[[ Now, before I go any further let me say -- with all due
respect to the Constitution of Venezuela -- this is one of those
areas where there is room for democracies to differ. // The
U.S. Constitution suits me just fine. // ]]
Carlos Andres Perez first became President in 1973;
his
Perez
five-year term ended in 1978. 10 years later -- at the earliest
possible opportunity -- the voters of Venezuela made this man the
first President elected to a second term. / Mr. President, not
only is it a testament to your patience -- but to your
countrymen's deep regard for you and your leadership. //
Your life-long service to your nation has been a source of
faith: Faith that Venezuela will move forward under your
guidance -- faith that democracy will move forward in Latin
America, with Venezuela in the vanguard. //
Tonight, Mr. President, I offer this toast:
To the shared ideals that unite our nations;
To lasting friendship between the people of the United
States and the people of Venezuela;
And to the future of freedom and democracy across all the
Americas.
# # #
ARRIVAL: PRESIDENT PEKEZ ur VENEZUELA / 300111 LAMIT
APRIL 26, 1990 / 10:00 AM
WELCOME, ALL OF YOU. // IT IS MY GREAT HONOR To
WELCOME THE LEADER OF ONE OF SOUTH AMERICA'S OLDEST
DEMOCRACIES -- AND ONE OF LATIN AMERICA'S MOST
RESPECTED STATESMEN -- CARLOS ANDRES PEREZ, PRESIDENT
OF VENEZUELA. //
AND I AM ESPECIALLY PLEASED THAT WE WELCOME HIM
TODAY.
- 2 -
PRESIDENT PEREZ HAS COME HERE FROM MANAGUA -- JUST
HOURS AFTER ATTENDING THE INAUGURATION OF VIOLETA
CHAMORRO AS THE NEW PRESIDENT OF NICARAGUA -- //
DEMOCRATIC NICARAGUA. A GREAT DAY FOR DEMOCRACY -- AND
A GREAT ADVANCE FOR THE CAUSE OF FREEDOM IN OUR
HEMISPHERE.
- 3 -
PRESIDENT PEREZ, ON THE MORNING AFTER NICARAGUA'S
RECENT ELECTIONS, I CALLED YOU TO DISCUSS THE STUNNING
VICTORY THE NICARAGUAN PEOPLE HAD WON AT THE BALLOT
BOX. I CALLED TO CONFER WITH YOU BECAUSE I KNEW HOW
LONG AND HARD YOU WORKED TO BRING DEMOCRACY TO
NICARAGUA.
- 4 -
FROM THE FINAL DAYS OF THE SOMOZA REGIME -- TO YOUR
EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF THE CONTADORA GROUP -- AND NOW TO
THE MOMENT OF FREEDOM'S TRIUMPH, YOUR DEEP PERSONAL
COMMITMENT TO THE ADVANCE OF DEMOCRACY HAS NEVER
WAVERED.
TODAY, ANOTHER NATION HAS JOINED FREEDOM'S RANKS.
FOR THE PEOPLE OF ALL THE AMERICAS THIS IS A TIME TO
CELEBRATE.
- 5 -
MORE THAN THAT -- IT IS A TIME TO DEDICATE OURSELVES TO
THE DAY, PERHAPS NOT so DISTANT, WHEN ALL THE PEOPLE OF
THIS HEMISPHERE LIVE IN FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY. //
MR. PRESIDENT, IN JUST A FEW MOMENTS, WE WILL MOVE
INSIDE TO THE OVAL OFFICE AND BEGIN OUR CONSULTATIONS.
BUT BEFORE WE DO, LET ME SAY A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE NEW
COURSE YOUR NATION HAS CHOSEN -- ABOUT THE CHANGES YOUR
NATION IS MAKING IN ITS ECONOMIC ORIENTATION.
- 6 -
AND ABOUT VENEZUELA'S VERSION OF WHAT I HAVE HEARD
DESCRIBED AS PEREZ-TROIKA. //
IN THE PAST YEAR, WE'VE SEEN THE THIRST FOR FREEDOM
TRANSFORM THE WORLD. WITH THAT UNQUENCHABLE DESIRE FOR
POLITICAL FREEDOM HAS COME A REALIZATION THAT FREEDOM
IS ALSO THE KEY TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
FROM Moscow TO MANAGUA, WE'VE WITNESSED A SHIFT --
FROM THE TEACHINGS OF MARX TO THE LESSONS OF THE FREE
MARKET. //
- 7 -
THAT SHIFT PARALLELS THE ONE YOU'VE BEGUN IN
VENEZUELA -- BY STRIPPING AWAY THE LAYERS OF STATE
CONTROL THAT STIFLED DEVELOPMENT, IN FAVOR OF FREE
MARKET PRINCIPLES THAT -- EXPERIENCE PROVES -- PROVIDE
FERTILE GROUND FOR GROWTH.
I KNOW THIS TRANSITION -- WITH ITS DIFFICULT SHORT-
TERM EFFECTS -- HAS MEANT SOME PAIN FOR THE PEOPLE OF
VENEZUELA. BUT IT IS THE KIND OF NEW BEGINNING THAT
WILL LAY THE FOUNDATIONS FOR FUTURE GROWTH. //
- 8 -
IT IS NOT AN EASY PATH -- BUT WE ARE CONVINCED IT IS
THE ONLY PATH TO PROSPERITY AND BETTER LIVES FOR ALL
VENEZUELANS.
THAT'S WHY I'M PLEASED TO SEE THAT VENEZUELA AND
ITS MAIN CREDITORS HAVE REACHED AGREEMENT UNDER THE
BRADY PLAN FOR DEALING WITH THE DEBT BURDEN -- A PLAN
THAT OPENS THE WAY FOR OPPORTUNITY AND GROWTH. WITH
THIS AGREEMENT, VENEZUELA CAN TAKE THE NEXT STEP
FORWARD -- TOWARD ECONOMIC VITALITY, AND GROWING
PROSPERITY FOR ALL ITS PEOPLE.
- 9 -
AND THAT, MR. PRESIDENT, IS NOT ONLY A TESTAMENT TO
VENEZUELAN ENERGY AND ENTERPRISE -- BUT TO YOUR VISION
AND COURAGE. //
ON BEHALF OF ALL AMERICANS, MR. PRESIDENT, IT IS MY
GREAT PLEASURE TO MEET WITH YOU HERE AT THE WHITE
HOUSE. // ONCE AGAIN, WELCOME -- AND MAY GOD BLESS
THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA.
# # #
ENTERTAINMENT THANK YOU/OFFICIAL VISIT OF PRESIDENT PEREZ
PETE FOUNTAIN -- APRIL 26, 1990
We've just heard one of the living legends of Dixieland --
an artist who grew up playing the great jazz houses on Bourbon
Street, and who's played this house on Pennsylvania Avenue -- 5
times now. On behalf of all our guests, Barbara and I want to
thank Pete Fountain -- and his talented band -- for sharing the
sounds of Bourbon Street with us tonight.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
APRIL 20,1990
TO:
SPEECHWRITERS
FM:
CATHY FENTON, SOCIAL OFFICE
X7064
RE:
BIOGRAPHIC INFORMATION ON
ENTERTAINER/APRIL 26 VENEZUELA
DINNER/THANK YOU REMARKS FOR
THE PRESIDENT
Attached is background information on
PETE FOUNTAIN, our entertainer for next
week's dinner. Please copy us with your
draft thank you for the President.
Thank you.
cc:ANNA PEREZ
L 204566218:84
OFFICE- SOCIAL
: Wd89:9 : 4420-90 :
RCV BY:THE WHITE HOUSE
DI'
PETE FOUNTAIN BIOGRAPHY
The year was 1939 and Peter Dewcy LaFontaine, 3r. was nine years old a skinny kid with bad lungs
who spent most of his time hanging around The Top Hat Dance Hall near his home on Broad Street. The
Top Hat was a stronghold for Dixieland jazz and Dixieland had $ strong hold on Pete Fountain even then.
lie knew he wanted to be a musician - he thought he wanted to be a drummer.
The family doctor had something else in mind. His prescription called for a musical instrument that
would strengthen those lungs- the clarinet. Pete's father was at natural musician and it was he who taught
Pete to play his first note.
Endlessly in trouble with his music teachers, Pete could not not play Dixieland. He will tell you today
that Benny Goodman and Irving Fazola were really his teachers. After endless hours of listening to their
recordings and practicing, the personal sound of Pete Fountain began to emerge - and 11 was fat.
By the time he was sixteen, he had already gained a reputation on The Street- Bourbon Street. He played
with the Junior Dixie Band in the famous Parisian Room - often performing for legendary jazzmen. It
was a heady time of life. And it was to lead to one of the great joys and tragedies of his youth. A call
from the Opera House Burlesque Theatre brought the news. Irving Fazola's band was playing there and
the caller asked Pote if he would like to play- said he had heard Pete had a sound as good as Faz's. Pete
Fountain was not yet out of high school and he was being ask ed to replace his idol on the bandstand. Irving
Fazola had died that day at the ago of thirty-six.
A few years later Pete joined Phil Zeto's International Dixieland Express. They were playing El Morroco
on The Street. IL was there he met Beverly. She had decided very young to marry a musician, and Pate
had decided very young to be a musician.
Soon enough Pete was playing with one of the best known Dixieland bands on The Street - The Basin
Street Six. But it was not long after, that be-bop came in and the music that Pete Fountain loved could
not provide him or anybody else with a living. Dixieland, in it's own birthplace- New Orleans, was
definitely asleep. Pete went to Chicago for an extended gig with the Dukes of Dixieland - just to play
his kind of music. He spent most weekends flying back and forth to and from New Orleans. Finally,
he returned to New Orlcans - this time for good.
3rd Level The New Orleans Hilton Poydras Street and the Mississippi New Orleans La. 70140 504-523-4374
Z
SOCIAL OFFICE-
: Wd89:9 : 4-20-90 :
RCV BY:THE WHITE HOUSE
PAGE TWO
He gave up music. By then there were three children to be considered - but no work. It was 1956 and
it was a bummer. He spent a year failing miserably at several miserable jobs. Pete went back to music.
The sound was still in him. All he needed was a band, = bandstand and at place to play.
Lawrence Welk gave him all those. A one-night television guest appearance turned into a two-year stay.
Welk promised he would make Pete Fountain a household word- and he did. It was with Welk that Pete
played Carnegie Hall for the first time. Naturally he chose a Renny Goodman tune, "China Boy"- it was
a great night.
Pete was to learn irrevocably what every New Orleanian has to accept as a fact of life. You can leave
New Orleans, but it never leaves you. The smells, the sights, the sounds. It cannot be described, it cannot
be erased.
Pete Fountain came home. Again. This time it would really be for good. And this time, he currie home
to his own club- Pate Fountain's French Quarter Inn at Bourbon and St. Ann. The tiles are still set in
the sidewalk from those days. But the need for a larger place forced Pete to move further down The Street
- to the 200 Block. He stayed there until 1977.
Pete was looking for a new location and the new New Orleans Hilton was looking for Pete Fountain. Pete
and Baron Hilton started talking and Pete found a permanent home in the Hilton. This new move was
announced on The Tonight Show - and it surprised everyone.
When the Hilton opened in August, 1977 - Pete Fountain was there. He recreated his famous Bourbon
Street club in the hotel. Capacity crowds every night, repeared guest appearances on network television
including over fifty performances on Johnny Carson's "The Tonight Show", and major new recordings
have propelled Pete Fountain into yet another successful phase of his long caroer.
Over Pete's career he has recorded over eighty albums. three of which have gone gold, "Pete Fountain's.
New Orleans", "The Blues", and "Mr. New Orleans". He has also received a gold record for his hit single
"Just A Closer Walk With Thee". The University of Santa Fe has bestowed an Honorary Doclorate
Degree in music to Pete for his tremendous music contributions.
Pete has had command performances for four Presidents of the United States. Pete has performed for
Pope John Paul II at the New Orleans Papal Mass with an attendance of over 400,000 persons. Pope John
Paul II was quoted as saying "I have always heard about the beautiful music of New Orleans. Today I
have been able to hear it and admire it personally."
Pete spends most of his time at his "retreat" in Bay St. Louis. And there is a lot there TO keep him busy
- "the fishing is great".
Pete has three children, four grandchildren, and a garage full of antique cars. The prized car collection
includes a 1936 4-door Ford Covertible, a 1934 Ford Phacton, a 1934 Ford Roadster, and a 1957 3900SL
Mercedes.
E
SOCIAL OFFICE-
: Wd69:9 : :
RCV BY:THE WHITE HOUSE
TOAST AT THE STATE DINNER IN HONOR OF PRESIDENT PEREZ
THE WHITE HOUSE / APRIL 26, 1989 / 7:30 PM
MR. PRESIDENT. DISTINGUISHED GUESTS. FRIENDS OF
VENEZUELA: BARBARA AND I ARE DELIGHTED TO SHARE THIS
EVENING TOGETHER. // IT'S ALWAYS A PLEASURE To HOST A
VISITING HEAD OF STATE, BUT THE PLEASURE IS EVEN
GREATER WHEN THERE ARE PERSONAL TIES INVOLVED. AND MR.
PRESIDENT, THAT'S TRUE IN THE CASE OF VENEZUELA. //
- 2 -
OUR OWN JEB AND COLUMBA HERE WITH US TONIGHT -- LIVED
AND WORKED IN YOUR COUNTRY DURING YOUR FIRST TERM AS
PRESIDENT. THEY LOVED IT AND so DO WE.
BARBARA AND I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY To VISIT YOUR
COUNTRY IN 1957 AND AGAIN WHILE I WAS VICE PRESIDENT,
BACK IN 1981 -- AND WE GRATEFULLY ACCEPT YOUR
INVITATION TO RETURN TO VENEZUELA LATER THIS YEAR.
- 3 -
THE KEY TO THE GOOD RELATIONS WE ENJOY IS THAT OUR
TWO NATIONS SHARE A VISION OF A TOTALLY DEMOCRATIC
HEMISPHERE AND A COMMON LOVE OF FREEDOM. WE AGREE THAT
NO SYSTEM IS BETTER THAN DEMOCRACY AT SECURING THE
PEACE AND PROSPERITY ALL NATIONS SEEK. THAT NO SYSTEM
IS BETTER SUITED TO RESPECT BASIC HUMAN RIGHTS -- OR
PROVIDES A BETTER HOME TO HUMAN ASPIRATIONS. THOSE
SHARED VALUES FORM THE BASIS OF OUR FRIENDSHIP.
- 4 -
EVEN OUR OCCASIONAL DISAGREEMENTS TAKE PLACE WITHIN THE
BROAD BOUNDS OF DEMOCRACY, IN AN ATMOSPHERE OF MUTUAL
RESPECT. ///
MR. PRESIDENT, YOU ARE ONE OF LATIN AMERICA'S GREAT
STATESMEN -- AND I HOPE YOU WON'T MIND THAT I SHARE
WITH OUR GUESTS TONIGHT CONCLUSIVE PROOF OF YOUR
STATURE -- PROOF PROVIDED BY VENEZUELA'S CONSTITUTION.
- 5 -
ACCORDING To ITS PROVISIONS, NO PRESIDENT CAN SERVE A
SECOND TERM -- NOT, THAT IS, WITHOUT FIRST WAITING 10
YEARS.
CARLOS ANDRES PEREZ FIRST BECAME PRESIDENT IN 1973;
HIS FIVE-YEAR TERM ENDED IN 1978. 10 YEARS LATER -- AT
THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE OPPORTUNITY -- THE VOTERS OF
VENEZUELA MADE THIS MAN THE FIRST MAN IN MODERN TIMES
TO BE ELECTED TO A SECOND TERM. /
- 6 -
MR. PRESIDENT, THIS IS A TESTAMENT TO YOUR COUNTRYMEN'S
DEEP REGARD FOR YOU AND FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP. //
YOUR LIFE-LONG SERVICE TO YOUR NATION HAS BEEN A
SOURCE OF FAITH: FAITH THAT VENEZUELA WILL MOVE
FORWARD UNDER YOUR GUIDANCE -- FAITH THAT DEMOCRACY
WILL MOVE FORWARD IN LATIN AMERICA, WITH VENEZUELA IN
THE VANGUARD. //
- 7 -
TONIGHT, MR. PRESIDENT, I OFFER THIS TOAST:
To THE SHARED IDEALS THAT UNITE OUR NATIONS;
To LASTING FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN THE PEOPLE OF THE
UNITED STATES AND THE PEOPLE OF VENEZUELA;
AND To THE FUTURE OF FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY ACROSS
ALL THE AMERICAS.
# # #
THE STATE VISIT
TO
WASHINGTON, D.C.
OF
HIS EXCELLENCY
CARLOS ANDRES PEREZ
PRESIDENT
OF
THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA
AND
MRS. PEREZ
APRIL 25 TO APRIL 28, 1990
* * *
Contents
Page
Official Delegation
2
Accompanying Delegation
4
Summary Schedule
5
Detailed Schedule
Wednesday, April 25
12
Thursday, April 26
19
Friday, April 27
51
Saturday, April 28
61
Accommodations
68
MEMBERS OF THE OFFICIAL VENEZUELAN DELEGATION
His Excellency
Carlos Andres Perez
President of the Republic of Venezuela
Mrs. Perez
His Excellency
Dr. Reinaldo Figueredo Planchart
Minister of Foreign Affairs
His Excellency
Dr. Simon Alberto Consalvi
Ambassador of Venezuela
to the United States
His Excellency
Dr. Celestino Armas
Minister of Energy and Mines
His Excellency
Dr. Miguel Rodriguez Fandeo
Minister of Coordination and Planning
-2-
MEMBERS OF THE OFFICIAL VENEZUELAN DELEGATION
(Continued)
His Excellency
Dr. Octavio Lepage
Chairman, Foreign Policy Committee
of the Senate
His Excellency
Dr. Jose Rodriguez Iturbe
Chairman, Foreign Policy Committee
of the Chamber of Deputies
His Excellency
Dr. Marco Tulio Bruni Celli
Member of the Chamber of Deputies
His Excellency
Dr. Pedro Tinoco, Jr.
President of the Central Bank
Dr. Sonia Perez
Daughter of the President
Dr. Jose Alvarez Stelling
President, Venezuelan Bankers Association
His Excellency
Dr. Julio Sosa Rodriguez
Former Ambassador of Venezuela
to the United States
Her Excellency
Dr. Beatrice Rangel
Vice Minister of the Secretariat
of the Presidency
-3-
MEMBERS OF THE ACCOMPANYING VENEZUELAN
DELEGATION
Dr. Pedro Berroeta
Mrs. Carolina Herrera
Maestro Carlos Cruz Diez
Mr. Antonio Bianchi
Dr. Enzo de Buffalo
Dr. Andres Stambouli
Mr. Alberto Vollmer
Mr. Hans Neumann
Dr. Marcel Granier
Mr. Gustavo Cisneros
Ms. Gabriela Febres Cordero
Mr. Antonio Hernandez
Mrs. Marta Perez de Hernandez
Mrs. Claudette de Veitia
Mr. Luis Salazar
Mr. Andres Galarraga
-4-
THE STATE VISIT
TO
WASHINGTON, D.C.
OF
HIS EXCELLENCY
CARLOS ANDRES PEREZ
PRESIDENT
OF
THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA
AND
MRS. PEREZ
APRIL 25 TO 28, 1990
SUMMARY SCHEDULE
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25
6:00 pm Mrs. Perez arrives
seperately, Andrews
Air Force Base,
Washington, D.C.
6:35 pm
Mrs. Perez arrives
Blair House via
motorcade.
10:00 pm-
Greeted by Assistant Chief
10:10 pm
of Protocol Black and Welcoming
Committee, Andrews Air Force
Base, Washington, D.C. *
* Mrs. Perez does not attend.
-5-
SUMMARY SCHEDULE
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25
(Continued)
10:40 pm
Arrive Blair House via motorcade.
Overnight: Blair House.
-6-
SUMMARY SCHEDULE
THURSDAY
APRIL 26
10:00 am-
Arrival Ceremony with The
10:25 am
President and Mrs. Bush,
South Lawn, The White House.
10:30 am-
Meeting with The President,
10:45 am
Oval Office, The White House. *
10:30 am- Coffee offered by Mrs.
11:00 am Bush in honor of Mrs.
Perez, Green Room, The
White House.
10:45 am-
Expanded Meeting with The
11:30 am
President, Cabinet Room,
The White House. *
12:00 pm-
Meeting with Secretary of State
12:30 pm
Baker, Secretary's Office,
Department of State.*
12:30 pm- Luncheon offered by
2:00 pm
Mrs. Baker in honor of
Mrs. Perez, Thomas
Jefferson Room,
Department of State.
* Mrs. Perez does not attend.
-7-
SUMMARY SCHEDULE
THURSDAY
APRIL 26
(Continued)
12:30 pm-
Working Luncheon with Secretary
1:30 pm
of State Baker, James Madison
Room, Department of State.*
3:00 pm-
Meetings with Senate Majority
3:45 pm
Leader Mitchell and Senate
Minority Leader Dole, Room
S-221, United States Capitol.*
4:15 pm-
Meeting with Speaker Foley,
4:45 pm
Room H-206, United States
Capitol.*
7:30 pm-
Refreshments with The President
7:45 pm
and Mrs. Bush, Family Quarters,
The White House.
7:45 pm-
Reception, State Dinner and
10:35 pm
After-Dinner Entertainment, East
Room and State Dining Room, The
White House.
* Mrs. Perez does not attend.
-8-
SUMMARY SCHEDULE
FRIDAY
APRIL 27
9:00 am-
Protocolary Session in honor of
11:00 am
President Perez, to be followed
by Address before Permanent
Council, Hall of the Americas,
Organization of American States.*
10:05 am-
Mrs. Perez tours
11:00 am
Rosemont Day Care
Center.
11:20 am-
Mrs. Perez tours
12:00 pm
St. John's Child
Development Center.
11:05 am-
Wreath-Laying Ceremony, Simon
11:15 am
Bolivar Monument. *
12:00 pm-
Luncheon with members of
2:00 pm
International Banking Community,
Blair House. *
1:50 pm-
Mrs. Perez tours
3:30 pm
Melwood Horticultural
Training Center.
* Mrs. Perez does not attend.
-9-
SUMMARY SCHEDULE
FRIDAY
APRIL 27
(Continued)
3:00 pm-
Dedication Ceremony, new
4:00 pm
Venezuelan Embassy. *
4:15 pm-
Press Conference, new Venezuelan
5:15 pm
Embassy. *
7:00 pm-
Reception offered by Ambassador
9:00 pm
and Mrs. Consalvi in honor of
President and Mrs. Perez,
Venezuelan Ambassador's
Residence.
9:00 pm-
Private Meeting with Ambassador
10:30 pm
Consalvi, Venezuelan
Ambassador's Residence. *
* Mrs. Perez does not attend.
Overnight: Blair House.
-10-
SUMMARY SCHEDULE
SATURDAY
APRIL 28
8:40 am-
Farewell Ceremony with Chief
8:45 am
of Protocol Reed and Farewell
Committee, Washington Monument
Grounds, Reflecting Pool.
8:45 am-
United States Presidential
8:55 am
Helicopters to Andrews Air Force
Base.
9:00 am-
United States Presidential
9:50 am
Aircraft to La Guardia Airport,
New York, New York.
Resume private schedule upon
arrival.
-11-
THE STATE VISIT
TO
WASHINGTON, D.C.
OF
HIS EXCELLENCY
CARLOS ANDRES PEREZ
PRESIDENT
OF
THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA
AND
MRS. PEREZ
APRIL 25 TO 28, 1990
DETAILED SCHEDULE
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25, 1990
WASHINGTON, D.C.
6:00 pm Mrs. Perez arrives
separately, Andrews Air
Force Base, Washington,
D.C., via Venezuelan
Special Aircraft from
Caracas, Venezuela.
-12-
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
6:05 pm Depart Andrews Air
Force Base via
motorcade en route
Blair House.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spouse's Car
Mrs. Perez
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Mr. Bumgardner
Car 3
Min. Rodriguez
Fandeo
Dr. Tinoco
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
6:35 pm Arrive Blair House,
1651 Pennsylvania
Avenue, N.W.
Greeted by:
Mrs. Benedicte Valentiner
General Manager
Blair House
-13-
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
10:00 pm
His Excellency Carlos Andres Perez,
President of the Republic of
Venezuela, arrives Andrews Air Force
Base, Washington, D.C., via
Venezuelan Special Aircraft from
Managua, Nicaragua.
Mr. William F. Black
Assistant Chief of Protocol
and
His Excellency
Simon Alberto Consalvi
Ambassador of Venezuela
to the United States
Mr. Black and Ambassador Consalvi
board the aircraft and escort
President Perez to the Welcoming
Committee.
(Open Press Coverage)
Welcoming Committee
Mrs. Consalvi
Brigadier General
Ralph R. Rohatsch, Jr.
Commander
Air Force District of Washington
-14-
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Welcoming Committee
(Continued)
Mrs. Rohatsch
Mr. Michael M. Skol
Deputy Assistant Secretary of State
for Inter-American Affairs
His Excellency
Edilberto Moreno
Ambassador of Venezuela
to the Organization of
American States
Mrs. Moreno
Her Excellency
Nora Arnao Machado
Alternate Ambassador of
Venezuela to the Organization
of American States
Mr. Simon Faraco
Consul General
of Venezuela at Baltimore
Mrs. Faraco
Dr. Carlos Bivero
Minister-Counselor
Embassy of Venezuela
Mrs. Bivero
-15-
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Welcoming Committee
(Continued)
Dr. William Larralde
Minister-Counselor
Embassy of Venezuela
Mrs. Larralde
Major General
Miguel Ignacio Morales-Perez
Defense and Military Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
Brigadier General
Juan Carlos Zarate
Air Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
Rear Admiral
Salvador Paz Camacho
Naval Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
Mrs. Angela Peraza
Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
After greeting members of the
Welcoming Committee, Mr. Black and
Brigadier General Rohatsch escort
President Perez to his car.
-16-
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
10:10 pm
Depart Andrews Air Force Base via
Motorcade en route Blair House.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Amb. Consalvi
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Ms. Morales
Car 3
Dr. Armas
Dr. Lepage
Dr. Iturbe
Car 4
Brig. Gen. Beltran
Lt. Col. Filatov
Miss Rosales
Car 5
Mr. Rodriguez
Embassy Van
TBD
-17-
WEDNESDAY
APRIL 25, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
10:40 pm Arrive Blair House.
Greeted by:
Mrs. Benedicte Valentiner
General Manager
Blair House
Overnight: Blair House.
-18-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990
WASHINGTON, D.C.
9:00 am Individuals with Southwest
Tickets arrive the
Southwest Gate of The White
House.
9:15 am The following individuals
arrive The White House via
the Visitor's Entrance,
East Executive Avenue, to
be escorted to the Gold
Rope Area:
-19-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Gold Rope Guests
Brig. Gen. Juan Carlos Zarate
Mr. Simon Faraco
Mrs. Norma de Faraco
Mr. Alberto Vollmer
Mr. Orlando Garcia
Rear Adm. Salvador Paz Camacho
Mrs. Claudette de Veitia
Mr. Raimundo Guisandes
Dr. William Larralde
Amb. Nora Arnao Machado
Mrs. Carolina Herrera
Mr. Gustavo Cisneros
Mr. Hans Neumann
Dr. Marcel Granier
Ms. Gabriela Febres Cordero
Dr. Enzo de Buffalo
-20-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Gold Rope Guests
(Continued)
Dr. Pedro Berroeta
Maestro Carlos Cruz Diez
Mr. Antonio Bianchi
9:30 am The Gold Rope Guests are
escorted to the Gold Rope
Area on the South Lawn of
The White House.
-21-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Welcoming Committee
9:40 am The following members of
the Welcoming Committee
arrive the West Lobby of
The White House and are
escorted to their assigned
places on the South Lawn:
The Secretary of State
Mrs. Baker
Representative of the Joint
Chiefs of Staff
-22-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Welcoming Committee
(Continued)
9:45 am The following members of
the Welcoming Committee
are escorted to their
places on the South
Lawn:
The Honorable
John Sununu
Chief of Staff and
Assistant to the President
General Brent Scowcroft
Assistant to the President
for National Security
Affairs
The Honorable
William Kristol
Chief of Staff and Assistant
to the Vice President
-23-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Welcoming Committee
(Continued)
9:30 am The following members
of the Welcoming Committee
arrive The White House
via the Visitor's Entrance,
East Executive Avenue,
and are escorted to their
assigned places on the
South Lawn:
Mrs. Maria Eugenia Consalvi
Wife of the Venezuelan Ambassador
to the United States
His Excellency
Jose Luis Fernandes Lopes
Ambassador of Cape Verde
to the United States
and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps
His Excellency
Edilberto Moreno
Ambassador of Venezuela to the
Organization of American States
Mrs. Marta Perez de Hernandez
Daughter of the President
Mr. Antonio Hernandez
Son-in-Law of the President
-24-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Welcoming Committee
(Continued)
Dr. Carlos Bivero
Minister-Counselor
Embassy of Venezuela
Major General
Miguel Ignacio Morales-Perez
Defense and Military Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
-25-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Official Venezuelan Delegation
(For Toe Markers on Lawn)
President Perez
Mrs. Perez
Foreign Minister Figueredo Planchart
Ambassador Consalvi
Minister Armas
Minister Rodriguez Fandeo
Dr. Lepage
Dr. Iturbe
Dr. Celli
Dr. Tinoco
Dr. Perez
Dr. Stelling
Dr. Rodriguez
Dr. Rangel
-26-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
9:40 am
The following members of the
Official Venezuelan
Delegation depart Blair House
en route the Diplomatic
Entrance of The White House
via the Southwest Gate:
Car Assignments
Car 3
FM Figueredo Planchart
Amb. Consalvi
Mrs. Consalvi
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
9:43 am
Arrive the Diplomatic
Entrance of The White House
and proceed to assigned
places on the South Lawn.
-27-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
9:55 am
President and Mrs. Perez depart
Blair House via motorcade en route
the Diplomatic Entrance of The
White House via the Southwest Gate.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Mrs. Perez
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
9:55 am
The President and Mrs. Bush arrive
the Diplomatic Reception Room.
9:59 am
The President and Mrs. Bush take
positions on the White House side
of the drive.
-28-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
The motorcade carrying President
and Mrs. Perez enters The White
House grounds and proceeds to the
Diplomatic Entrance.
10:00 am
President and Mrs. Perez are
introduced to The President and
Mrs. Bush by Ambassador Reed.
(Photo Opportunity)
The President introduces the
following persons to President and
Mrs. Perez:
The Secretary of State
Mrs. Baker
The President escorts President
Perez onto the reviewing platform.
Mrs. Bush escorts Mrs. Perez to the
right of the platform in front of
the Official Venezuelan Delegation.
-29-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Present Arms.
Ruffles and Flourishes.
National Anthem of the
Republic of Venezuela.
National Anthem of the
United States.
21-Gun Salute.
Order Arms.
Inspection.
Troop in Review.
The Army Fife and Drum Corps
passes in front of the
platform.
Present Arms.
Order Arms.
The Commander of Troops
concludes the Honors at this
time.
President Bush and President Perez
move to the microphone and face the
press.
-30-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Remarks by President Bush.
Response by President Perez.
President Bush and President Perez
face the troops and the Commander
of Troops indicates that the
Ceremony is concluded.
10:20 am
The President and Mrs. Bush escort
President and Mrs. Perez to the
Diplomatic Entrance and upstairs to
the State Floor.
They proceed to the Cross Hall
where a receiving line is formed in
the following order:
Ambassador Reed
(to introduce)
The President
President Perez
Mrs. Bush
Mrs. Perez
Members of the Official Venezuelan
Delegation and the Welcoming
Committee proceed via the Southwest
Staircase into The White House, are
escorted into the Red Room, and are
presented to the receiving line in
the Cross Hall.
-31-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Members of the Official Venezuelan
Delegation and the Welcoming
Committee are escorted into the
Blue Room where refreshments are
served.
10:25 am
President Bush escorts President
Perez to the Oval Office.
(Photo Opportunity)
10:40 am Members of the Welcoming
Committee from the
Venezuelan Embassy are
escorted to the Visitor's
Entrance.
10:40 am Members of the Official
Venezuelan Delegation not
participating in the
Meeting in the Cabinet
Room depart the North
Portico via the Northwest
Gate en route Blair House.
10:45 am Arrive Blair House.
-32-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
10:30 am- Meeting with The President in
10:45 am
the Oval Office.
Venezuelan Participants
President Perez
Dr. Rangel - Notetaker
Miss Rosales - Interpreter
10:30 am Mrs. Bush escorts Mrs.
Perez to the Green Room.
White House Social
Officers escort remaining
Coffee participants to
the Green Room.
10:35 am- Coffee offered by Mrs.
11:00 am Bush in honor of Mrs.
Perez in the Green Room
of The White House.
At the conclusion of the
Coffee, Mrs. Bush escorts
Mrs. Perez to the North
Portico.
&
-33-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
11:05 am Depart The White House
via motorcade en route
Blair House.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spouse's Car
Mrs. Perez
Mrs. Consalvi
--Mr. Daly
Follow-up
USSS
Embassy Car 6
TBD
11:10 am Arrive Blair House.
-34-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
10:45 am- Expanded Meeting with The President
11:30 am
in the Cabinet Room.
Venezuelan Participants
President Perez
Foreign Minister Figueredo Planchart
Ambassador Consalvi
Minister Armas
Minister Rodriguez Fandeo
Dr. Tinoco
Dr. Rodriguez
Dr. Rangel - Notetaker
Miss Rosales - Interpreter
At the conclusion of the Meeting,
President Bush escorts President Perez
to his car.
11:35 am
Depart The White House via motorcade en
route Blair House.
-35-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Amb. Consalvi
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
Car 3
TBD
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
11:40 am
Arrive Blair House.
-36-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
12:20 pm Mrs. Perez departs Blair
House via motorcade en route
Department of State.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spouse's Car
Mrs. Perez
Mrs. Consalvi
Mrs. Soto
--Mr. Daly
Follow-up
USSS
Embassy Car 6
Mrs. Moreno
Mrs. Perez
de Hernandez
Mrs. Veitia
Maj. Padrio
Embassy Car 7
Mrs. Colmanares
Mrs. Madrid
Mrs. Silva
Mrs. Peraza
12:25 pm Arrive the Diplomatic
Entrance of Department of
State.
Greeted by:
Mrs. James A. Baker, III
12:30 pm- Luncheon offered by
2:00 pm Mrs. Baker in honor of Mrs.
Perez, Thomas Jefferson
Room, Department of State.
-37-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
2:05 pm Depart Department of
State via motorcade en
route Blair House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
2:10 pm Arrive Blair House.
11:50 am
Depart Blair House via motorcade
en route Department of State.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Amb. Consalvi
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
Car 3
TBD
-38-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
11:55 am
Arrive the Diplomatic Entrance of
Department of State.
Greeted by:
The Honorable
James A. Baker, III
The Secretary of State
The Honorable
Joseph Verner Reed
The Chief of Protocol
(Photo Opportunity)
Secretary Baker and Ambassador
Reed escort President Perez via
reserved elevator to the Seventh
Floor.
12:00 pm- Meeting with Secretary Baker,
12:30 pm
Secretary's Office, Department of
State.
-39-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
12:30 pm-
Working Luncheon with Secretary
1:30 pm
Baker, James Madison Room, Department of
State.
Venezuelan Participants
President Perez
Foreign Minister Figueredo Planchart
Ambassador Consalvi
Minister Armas
Minister Rodriguez Fandeo
Dr. Rodriguez
Dr. Celli
Dr. Tinoco
Dr. Lepage
Dr. Iturbe
Miss Rosales - Interpreter
At the conclusion of the Working
Luncheon, Secretary Baker escorts
President Perez to the Diplomatic
Entrance.
(Open Press Coverage)
1:35 pm
Depart Department of State via motorcade
en route Blair House.
-40-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
1:40 pm
Arrive Blair House.
2:45 pm
Depart Blair House via motorcade en
route the United States Capitol.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Amb. Consalvi
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
Car 3
TBD
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
2:55 pm
Arrive the Senate Carriage Entrance,
United States Capitol.
Greeted by:
The Honorable
Henry K. Giugni
Sergeant at Arms
United States Senate
-41-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
3:00 pm- Meeting with The Honorable
3:45 pm
George J. Mitchell, Senate Majority Leader,
and The Honorable Robert Dole, Senate
Minority Leader, Room S-221, United States
Capitol.
3:50 pm
Proceed to the Rotunda, United States
Capitol.
Greeted by:
The Honorable
Jack Russ
Sergeant at Arms
United States House of Representatives
4:15 pm- Meeting with The Honorable Thomas H.
4:45 pm
Foley, Speaker of the House of
Representatives, Room H-206, United States
Capitol.
4:50 pm Depart the United States Capitol via
motorcade en route Blair House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
5:00 pm Arrive Blair House.
-42-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Venezuelan Guests for the State Dinner
at The White House
His Excellency
Carlos Andres Perez
President of the Republic of Venezuela
Mrs. Perez
His Excellency
Dr. Reinaldo Figueredo Planchart
Minister of Foreign Affairs
His Excellency
Dr. Simon Alberto Consalvi
Ambassador of Venezuela
to the United States
Mrs. Consalvi
His Excellency
Dr. Celestino Armas
Minister of Energy and Mines
His Excellency
Dr. Miguel Rodriguez Fandeo
Minister of Coordination and Planning
His Excellency
Dr. Pedro Tinoco, Jr.
President of the Central Bank
-43-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Venezuelan Guests for the State Dinner at
The White House
(Continued)
Dr. Sonia Perez
Daughter of the President
His Excellency
Dr. Octavio Lepage
Chairman, Foreign Policy Committee
of the Senate
His Excellency
Dr. Jose Rodriguez Iturbe
Chairman, Foreign Policy Committee
of the Chamber of Deputies
His Excellency
Dr. Marco Tulio Bruni Celli
Member of the Chamber of Deputies
Dr. Jose Alvarez Stelling
President, Venezuelan Bankers Association
His Excellency
Dr. Julio Sosa Rodriguez
Former Ambassador of Venezuela
to the United States
-44-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
7:10 pm The following members of
the Official Venezuelan
Delegation depart Blair
House en route the
Diplomatic Entrance of The
White House via the
Southwest Gate.
Car Assignments
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
7:15 pm Arrive the Diplomatic
Entrance of The White
House and proceed directly
to the East Room.
-45-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
7:28 pm
Depart Blair House via motorcade en route
the North Portico of The White House via
the Northwest Gate.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Mrs. Perez
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
Car 3
FM Figueredo Planchart
Amb. Consalvi
Mrs. Consalvi
7:30 pm
Arrive the North Portico of The White
House.
Greeted by:
The President
Mrs. Bush
(Photo Opportunity)
-46-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
The President and Mrs. Bush escort
President and Mrs. Perez to the
Yellow Oval Room of the Family
Quarters for refreshments.
7:45 pm
The Officer in Charge requests
permission to secure the Colors.
The President grants approval.
The Color Team secures the Colors
and proceeds out of the Yellow
Oval Room and down the Grand
Staircase, led by the Officer in
Charge.
At the foot of the staircase, the
Color Team divides.
7:47 pm
The four principals arrive the
State Floor via the Grand
Staircase, pause at the foot of
the stairs for a press photo
session, and proceed directly to
the East Room, led by the Color
Team.
As the Color Team halts outside
the East Room, an announcement is
made.
The Color Team precedes the four
principals into the East Room
during the playing of "Hail to the
Chief.
-47-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
The Colors divide after clearing
the doorway, and the four
principals move into place between
them, but two steps ahead.
A receiving line is formed in the
East Room as follows:
Ambassador Reed
(to introduce)
President Bush
President Perez
Mrs. Bush
Mrs. Perez
Dinner guests proceed through the
receiving line and directly into
the State Dining Room.
At the conclusion of the
Reception, The President and Mrs.
Bush escort President and Mrs.
Perez into the State Dining Room.
State Dinner offered by The
President and Mrs. Bush in honor
of His Excellency Carlos Andres
Perez, President of the Republic
of Venezuela, and Mrs. Perez.
Dress: Black tie.
-48-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
8:15 pm Toast by The President.
Response by President Perez.
8:30 pm Dinner is served.
9:15 pm The after-dinner guests
attending the
Entertainment at The
White House arrive the
East Center Gate, East
Executive Avenue, and
are escorted to the
Diplomatic Reception
Room.
9:55 pm The President and Mrs. Bush escort
President and Mrs. Perez to the
Blue Room.
The after-dinner guests are
escorted to the Red, Blue, and
Green Rooms.
Guests are offered coffee in the
Red, Blue, and Green Rooms.
-49-
THURSDAY
APRIL 26, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
10:10 pm
Guests proceed to the East Room
for the Entertainment.
10:15 pm
The Entertainment begins.
10:35 pm The Entertainment concludes.
The President and Mrs. Bush thank
the entertainers.
(President and Mrs. Perez may wish
to join The President and Mrs.
Bush in thanking the entertainers.)
Following the Entertainment, The
President and Mrs. Bush escort
President and Mrs. Perez to the
North Portico for their departure.
10:40 pm
Depart The White House via
motorcade en route Blair House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
10:45 pm
Arrive Blair House.
Overnight: Blair House:
-50-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990
WASHINGTON, D.C.
8:50 am
Depart Blair House via motorcade
en route the Organization of
American States.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
Car 3
TBD
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
-51-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
8:55 am
Arrive the Organization of
American States.
Greeted by:
His Excellency
Joao Baena Soares
Secretary General
Organization of American States
Her Excellency
Ana Colomor O'Brien
Chief of Protocol
Organization of American States
-52-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
9:45 am
Mrs. Perez departs Blair
House via motorcade en
route the Rosemont Day
Care Center.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spouse's Car
Mrs. Perez
Mrs. Consalvi
Mrs. Soto
--Mr. Daly
Embassy Car 6
Mrs. Moreno
Mrs. Perez
de Hernandez
Mrs. Veitia
Maj. Padrino
Embassy Car 7
Mrs. Colmanares
Mrs. Madrid
Mrs. Silva
Mrs. Peraza
10:00 am
Arrive the Rosemont Day
Care Center, 2000 Rosemont
Avenue, N.W.
Greeted by:
Mrs. Marta Gonzalez
Director of Programs
Rosemont Day Care Center
10:05 am- Mrs. Perez tours the
11:00 am
Rosemont Day Care Center.
-53-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
11:00 am
Mrs. Perez departs the
Rosemont Day Care Center
via motorcade en route the
St. John's Child
Development Center.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
11:15 am
Arrive the St. John's
Child Development Center,
505 MacArthur Boulevard,
N.W.
Greeted by:
Mrs. Denise O'Neil
Director of School Programs
Ms. Gayle Union
Director of Development
11:20 am-
Mrs. Perez tours the
12:00 pm
St. John's Child
Development Center.
12:00 pm
Depart the St. John's
Child Development Center
via motorcade en route
Blair House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
12:20 pm
Arrive Blair House.
9:00 am- Protocolary Session in honor of
11:00 am
President Perez, to be followed by
Address before the Permanent Council,
Hall of the Americas, Organization of
American States.
-54-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
11:00 am
Depart the Organization of American
States via motorcade en route the
Simon Bolivar Monument.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
11:03 am
Arrive the Simon Bolivar Monument,
18th Street and Virginia Avenue, N.W.
Greeted by:
Mr. William F. Black
Assistant Chief of Protocol
Major General
Donald C. Hilbert
Commanding General
Military District of Washington
11:05 am- Wreath-Laying Ceremony, Simon
11:15 am Bolivar Monument.
11:15 am Depart the Simon Bolivar Monument via
motorcade en route Blair House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
11:20 am Arrive Blair House.
-55-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
1:15 pm
Mrs. Perez departs Blair
House via motorcade en
route the Melwood
Horticultural Training
Center.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
1:45 pm
Arrive the Melwood
Horticultural Training
Center, 5606 Dower House
Road, Upper Marlboro,
Maryland.
Greeted by:
Mr. Carl Copus
Executive Director
Melwood Horticultural
Training Center
1:50 pm- Mrs. Perez tours the
3:30 pm
Melwood Horticultural
Training Center.
3:30 pm
Mrs. Perez departs the
Melwood Horticultural
Training Center via
motorcade en route Blair
House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
4:00 pm
Arrive Blair House.
-56-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
12:00 pm- Working Luncheon with members of the
2:00 pm
International Banking Community,
Blair House.
2:45 pm
Depart Blair House via motorcade en
route the new Venezuelan Embassy.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
Car 3
TBD
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
2:55 pm
Arrive new Venezuelan Embassy, 1099
30th Street, N.W.
-57-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
3:00 pm- Dedication Ceremony, new Venezuelan
4:00 pm Embassy.
4:15 pm- Press Conference, new Venezuelan
5:15 pm Embassy.
5:20 pm
Depart the new Venezuelan Embassy via
motorcade en route Blair House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
5:30 pm
Arrive Blair House.
6:45 pm
President and Mrs. Perez depart Blair
House via motorcade en route the
Venezuelan Ambassador's Residence.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Mrs. Perez
Follow-up
USSS
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
Mrs. Morales
-58-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Car 3
TBD
Car 4
TBD
8
Car 5
TBD
6:55 pm
Arrive the Venezuelan Ambassador's
Residence, 2443 Massachusetts
Avenue, N.W.
Greeted by:
His Excellency
Dr. Simon Alberto Consalvi
Ambassador of Venezuela
to the United States
Mrs. Consalvi
7:00 pm-
Reception offered by Ambassador
9:00 pm
and Mrs. Consalvi in honor of
President and Mrs. Perez, Venezuelan
Ambassador's Residence.
Dress: Business suit.
9:00 pm- Private Meeting with Ambassador
10:30 pm
Consalvi at the Venezuelan
Ambassador's Residence.
-59-
FRIDAY
APRIL 27, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
10:35 pm
Depart the Venezuelan Ambassador's
Residence via motorcade en route
Blair House.
Motorcade: As on arrival.
10:45 pm
Arrive Blair House.
Overnight: Blair House.
-60-
SATURDAY
APRIL 28, 1990
WASHINGTON, D.C.
6:30 am Baggage call.
8:35 am
Depart Blair House via motorcade en
route the Washington Monument
Grounds, Reflecting Pool.
Motorcade Assignments
Lead Car
USSS
Spare Car
USSS
Mr. Black
Mr. Bumgardner
Pres. 's Car
Pres. Perez
Mrs. Perez
Amb. Consalvi
Mrs. Consalvi
Follow-up
USSS
-61-
SATURDAY
APRIL 28, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Protocol Car
Amb. Silva
1
Mrs. Morales
Car 3
TBD
Car 4
TBD
Car 5
TBD
8:40 am
Arrive the Washington Monument
Grounds, Reflecting Pool.
Greeted by:
The Honorable
Joseph Verner Reed
The Chief of Protocol
8:40 am- Ambassador Reed escorts President
8:45 am
and Mrs. Perez to the Farewell
Committee.
*
-62-
SATURDAY
APRIL 28, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Farewell Committee
$
His Excellency
Simon Alberto Consalvi
Ambassador of Venezuela
to the United States
Mrs. Consalvi
Mr. Michael M. Skol
Deputy Assistant Secretary of State
for Inter-American Affairs
His Excellency
Edilberto Moreno
Ambassador of Venezuela
to the Organization of
American States
Mrs. Moreno
Her Excellency
Nora Arnao Machado
Alternate Ambassador of
Venezuela to the Organization
of American States
-63-
SATURDAY
APRIL 28, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Farewell Committee
(Continued)
Mr. Simon Faraco
Consul General
of Venezuela at Baltimore
Mrs. Faraco
Dr. Carlos Bivero
Minister-Counselor
Embassy of Venezuela
Mrs. Bivero
Dr. William Larralde
Minister-Counselor
Embassy of Venezuela
Mrs. Larralde
Major General
Miguel Ignacio Morales-Perez
Defense and Military Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
Brigadier General
Juan Carlos Zarate
Air Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
Rear Admiral
Salvador Paz Camacho
Naval Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
Mrs. Angela Peraza
Attache
Embassy of Venezuela
-64-
SATURDAY
APRIL 28, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
After greeting members of the Farewell
Committee, Ambassador Reed escorts
President and Mrs. Perez to their
helicopter.
8:45 am Depart the Washington Monument
Grounds, Reflecting Pool, via United
States Presidential Helicopters.
Helicopter 1 Manifest (10)
Pres. Perez
Mr. Black
Mrs. Perez
USSS-2
F.M. Figueredo
Amb. Consalvi
Mrs. Consalvi
Min. Armas
Venezuelan Security
Helicopter 2 Manifest (10)
Min. Fandeo
Mr. Bumgardner
Dr. Lepage
USSS-2
Dr. Iturbe
Dr. Celli
Dr. Tinoco
Dr. Stelling
Dr. Rodriguez
-65-
SATURDAY
APRIL 28, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
8:55 am Arrive Andrews Air Force Base.
Greeted by:
Brigadier General
Ralph R. Rohatsch, Jr.
Commander, Air Force District
of Washington
Mrs. Rohatsch
Mr. Black and Brigadier General and
Mrs. Rohatsch escort President and
Mrs. Perez to their aircraft.
9:00 am
Depart via United States Presidential
Aircraft en route La Guardia Airport,
New York, New York.
Flight Time:
0:50
Time change:
None
To be served:
Snack
-66-
SATURDAY
APRIL 28, 1990 (Continued)
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Aircraft Manifest
(20)
1
Pres. Perez
Mr. Black
Mrs. Perez
Mr. Bumgardner
sp
FM Figueredo
Mr. Payne
Planchart
USSS-6
Min. Armas
Min. Fandeo
Dr. Lepage
Dr. Iturbe
Dr. Celli
Dr. Tinoco
Dr. Rodriguez
Mr. Rangel
9:50 am
His Excellency Carlos Andres Perez,
President of the Republic of
Venezuela, and Mrs. Perez arrive La
Guardia Airport, New York, New York,
and resume a private schedule.
&
-67-
ACCOMMODATIONS
WASHINGTON, D.C.
BLAIR HOUSE
1651 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20500
Switchboard
(202) 347-0397
Protocol Office
(202) 393-6492
"
"
(202) 393-6493
"
"
(202) 647-0688
FAX
(202) 879-7740
* * *
THE GRAND HOTEL
2350 M Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20037
Switchboard
(202) 429-0100
FAX
(202) 419-9759
* * *
-68-
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61H STURY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
copyright (C) 1981 The washington POST
November 18, 1981, weonesday, Final Edition
SECTION: Style; L1
LENGTH: 1600 words
HEADLINE: ine loast and runes;
surprising Spice at Reagan's vinner For venezuela's President;
continents ano cordiality
BYLINE: By Laria Hall and vonnie kaaciltte
KEYWURD: DINNER
BUDY:
ney nave in common things ranging from Daseoall to t1 Saivador, interests
that these two presidents made a point of mentioning last nignt as they toasted
each other at the white HOUSE. The occasion was an official ainner that
President keagan gave for venezueian President LUIS Herrera campins.
" Tonight we nonor a man ano a country that nave cnosen a patn of principie,"
saio Reagan in nis toast.
democracy ano numan rignts 15 not the easiest
course, out It 15 the most moral."
5210 Herrera, in a toast that turned into a speech: "WE are committed to
oemocracy
in this line or conduct, we give active political ano moral
support to the government Junta or t1 Saivaoor
it was an evening tilled with the traditions ano grandeur of oining at the
white House - good music, tine wines ano toasts to Democracy and cooperation.
But more about that later. The unexpected TWIST in the format was the
entertainment, provided DY KoDert Goulet, whose nightciud-like act took the
formally clao group ----------- well, by surprise.
Atter a TEW numbers Goulet порреа ott the tast ROOM stage, micropnone in
nano, to work the audience, particularly the first row.
"All 1 need 15 a girl
ne crooned to Baroara Busn, the vice
president's wite.
" VO you mina It 1 say you're cute in every way?" ne askeo Pat Haig, the
secretary or state's wite.
inen, to President Reagan: "Am 1 getting into trouble!"
"inat race, that face, It Just isn't tair," ne sang, moonisniy looking into
Nancy Reagan's eyes. "You must excuse me It 1 stare." He snook nis nead ano
smileo at ner. "You're gorgeous."
inen ne TOTO a story about going into the audience to sing that same song at
Lake lanoe, DUT the spotiignts got in nis eyes, ano only later 010 ne realize to
whom ne was singing. "it was all men -- a lumberjack convention." Finally ne
touno a Tace with long nair to sing to. "It worked out," ne Jokea. "He's Deen
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(C) 1981 ine washington post, November 18, 1981
writing every week."
inere was more. "wake up," ne salo, giving cnief or protocol Leonore
Annenberg a poke in the arm.
ST111 more. "It's impossiole," ne waroleo to the tune or the familiar song,
ano then interjected nis own lyrics, "making love in a loyota." Few laugns.
"inat gets a 01g laugn in nightcluos."
H15 director at the atternoon renearsal, It turneo out, was Frank Sinatra,
the occasional impresario to the white House, who nao flown to washington from
LOS Angeles with Nancy keagan on monoay. ("HE paio nis own way," Snella late,
the tirst lady's press secretary, saio earlier.)
rank was nere this atternoon and salo 'make It tast,' " Goulet tolo the
augience while finishing up nis act with "It Ever 1 WOULD Leave YOU" from
"lamelot."
The president Doundea onto the stage to thank the singer. 5210 Reagan, "I'll 11
never forget the nignt you sang to me at Lake lanoe." The nouse roareo.
Reaction later ranged from polite to ettusive. Leonore Annenberg: "un, gosn,
no 1 wasn't asleep. 1 was tapping my Teet."
Laroinal ierence LOOKE: "1 enjoyea It very mucn, especially the last number."
minutes Defore ne went to the press room to review a copy of the president'.
foreign policy speech, national security adviser Kicharo Allen was relaxed and
Jokea during the atter-oinner coffee. when asked about the controversy over the
$1, UUU ne received for mrs. Reagan as a "thank-you" tee for granting an
interview to Japanese journalists, Allen salo, "NOW, 00 1 100K mitted: WOULD you
ask Amoassaoor J. William M1002ndort It 1 100K mitted?"
"NO, ne ooesn't LOOK mitteo," 5810 Miooenoort, the U.S. representative to the
vrganization or American states. He later nuooleo with Allen and tolo nim, "UUI
or every aoversity comes an opportunity for success."
inose who were in on the talks earlier in the day Detween Reagan ano Herrera
were pieaseo with the outcome. "very frank," salo venezuelan Amoassaoor
perez-uniriooga.
"Extremely successtul," said presidential counselor EOWIN meese. "ine two men
touno a tot in common in terms or their approacn to the Americas."
It seemed appropriate, since Doth are powers in the western nemisphere -
venezuela with ITS UPEC 011 ano the United States with almost everything else.
Ano venezuela 15 an important Dacker or U.S. efforts to alo the vuarte
civilian-milltary government in E1 Salvaoor.
it also turned out that Doth presidents were sports journalists at one time.
keagan arew a laugn when ne TOLO nis guests now Herrera 0811vered a speecn to
the United Nations, then went ott to rankee Stadium to see a Daseoall game.
it also reminoed keagan or another sports tan, nis motner-in-1aw. Sne once
tolo nim Nancy Reagan's Dirtnoay WOULD nave Deen July 4 instead or JULY 0,
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(C) 1981 The wasnington POST, November 18, 1981
except that mrs. vavis 010n't want to miss a oowole-neader at rankee Stadium.
Fires Diazeo on the neartns ano as a sign that the weatner nao turned cnilly,
the oark velvets and rustling tattetas captured the evening's glow. Nancy keagan
ano Lee Annenderg Doth wore BLACK velvet. Betty Herrera's tatteta moire was in
orignt pink, a popular color among the guests. Ano guest 10m woite, the author,
tett MIS signature white suit at nome ano aonnea the traditional tuxeoo.
For ainner there was roast iamo, green Deans amandine ano DOMDE,
with three california wines. And atter the entertainment, there was dancing and
champagne. The Reagans TOOK a tew spins on the floor and on their way upstairs
Nancy pauseo for a cnat with ner trieno Jerome Zipkin, until ner nusbano, the
president, gently nuageo ner that It was time to go.
Guest LIST
The following were invited to last night's white House oinner for venezueian
President LUIS Herrera campins ano mrs. Herrera
JOSE Alberto zamorano, minister or foreign affairs
LUIS ugueto Arismenol, minister or finance
ben. Bernaroo Leal Pucni, minister or oetense
Jose LUIS zapata, minister of agriculture
Humberto Lalderon Berti, minister or energy and mines
Gonzaio Garcia Bustillos, minister or the secretariat or the presidency
marcial perez-uniridoga, amoassador to the United States, ano Josetina 02
perez-Chiriboga
Hilarion caroozo, amoassaoor to the organization or American States, & mrs.
caroozo
Dr. JU110 Sosa Rooriguez, former to the United States
AOM. JUL10 Lesar Lanz castellanos, chief Of the president's military
nousenoia
Sen. James ADDNOR (R-5.D.)
Kicnaro V. Allen, assistant to the president for national security affairs,
ano Pat Allen
Leonore Annenoerg, cnief of protocol
Rep. Eugene V. Atkinson (D-ra.)
Patricia A. Avery, U.S. News ano world Report
James A. Baker 111, cnief of staff and assistant to the president, & susan
Baker
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(C) 1981 The washington post, November 18, 1981
marcolm Baidrige, secretary of commerce, & margaret Balorige
Frederick Biedel, oeputy oirector of the Republican National committee, &
Tadata
Jonn R. BLOCK, secretary of agriculture, & sue BLOCK
vice President George Busn & Barbara Bush
Gustavo Lisneros, president of Higngate Properties, NEW York, N.Y., &
Patricia Lisneros
william P. tlark, deputy secretary of state, & Joan Llark
caroinal ierence LOOKE, arcnoisnop or NEW York
Mr. & mrs. Konaio crawtoro, Arlington, va.
Michael K. weaver, oeputy cnief or staff ano assistant to the president, &
carolyn veaver
count & countess 02 Ravenel, New York, N.Y.
sam vonaioson, ABC NEWS
Jonn L. Duncan, chairman, council of the Americas, New York, N.Y., & Barbara
vuncan
nomas U. Enoers, assistant secretary or state-designate for Inter-American
Affairs, & Gaetana Enoers
vavio & marilyn Evins, NEW York, N.Y.
peter M. + lanigan, managing oirector, villon kead & CO. inc., New YORK, N.Y.,
& Brigio lanigan
kep. L.H. Fountain (D-N.C.), & unristine Fountain
Mr. & mrs. Stephen D. Gavin, LOS Angeles, callt.
KoDert Goulet, NEW York, N.Y.
peter J. Grace, president, W.K. Grace & LO., NEW York, N.Y., & margaret Grace
Paul t. Gray, president, massacnusetts institute of Tecnnology, & Priscilla
Gray
Alan Greenspan, president, rownseno-breenspan & LO. inc., NEW York, N.Y.
Alexander Haig, secretary or state, & Patricia Haig
Lolleen Hargrave, empieton, callf.
Sen. urrin Hatcn (R-utan) & tlaine Hatch
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(C) 1981 The wasnington post, November 18, 1981
M1m1 Herrera, NEW York, N.Y.
Janet Hooker, New York, N.Y.
Jaquelin H. & Betty Hume, San rancisco, Lallt.
mary LOW Juay
June karger, New York, N.Y.
Jonn L. & t rances LOED, NEW York, N.Y.
william H. Luers, American amoassaoor to venezueia, & mrs. Luers
reter mcloy, aeputy assistant to the president ano airector of staff for the
first lady, & kacey mccoy
towin meese 111, counselor to the president, & ursula meese
Alleen menie, NEW York vally NEWS
Alexis mersenoes
J. william middenoort, representative of the United States to the
urganization or American States, & isadelle miooenoort
vera NOYAK
Alejanoro urtila, secretary general of the organization of American States, &
Heiga urtila
Harry Platt, littany & LO., NEW York, N.Y.
Laurance 5. & mary коскетеліег, NEW York, N.Y.
Eugene V. kostow, oirector, Arms control & visarmament Agency, & tona ROSTOW
william A. Rusner, publisher, The National keview, New York, N.Y.
reaerick D. Seeley, president, Pan American Society or the united States,
New York, N.Y., & mrs. Seeley
George H. , president, The Becntel Group Inc., San rancisco, callt., &
Helena snuitz
Kicnaro inieriot, puolisher ano eaitor, San rancisco unronicie, San
Francisco, callt., & Angelica interiot
marietta P. iree, NEW York, N.Y.
Geraio & t Lorence vanverkemp, New York, N.Y.
Jonn L. whiteneao, Goloman, sacns & LO., NEW York, N.Y. & Jaan whitenead
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(C) 1981 The wasnington Post, November 18, 1981
ine Kev. Hosea williams, beorgia state representative, Atlanta, 6a., &
Juanita williams
10m & Sneila wolte, NEW York, N.Y.
Jerome Zipkin, New York, N.Y.
GRAPHIC: Picture, Betty Herrera, Nancy Reagan, ano presidents Herrera ano
Reagan, DY Jonn mcvonnell
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DATE: APRIL 14, 1990
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znd STURY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright (C) 1990 GLODE Newspaper company;
The Boston GIODE
February L/, 1990, uesoay, Lity Eoition
SECTION: NATIONAL/FOREIGN; Pg. 1
LENGTH: 818 woros
HEADLINE: Busn to move for early litting of US sanctions;
veteat of the Sanoinistas
BYLINE: By Jonn W. masnek ano Micnael kranisn, G1002 Staff
DATELINE: WASHINGTON
KEYWURD: nilakabua; ELECTION; RESULT; GEURGE BUSH; REALTION; us; RELATION;
AID; NAME- CHAMURRU; NAME-URIEGA
BUDY:
Sorting out the stunning upset in Nicaragua's presidential election, the
Busn aoministration inoicated yesteroay that It would move quickly to litt
economic sanctions. President Busn, meanwnile, called for an eno to military
contiict.
The election or violeta chamorro, Dacked DY the United States, was a
surprise to wasnington. particularly unexpected was ner W10e margin of victory
over President vaniel urtega. Busn naileo that victory and saio that there was
room in Nicaragua for peaceful
"WE nope now for a peacetul transition, for the InstitutionAlization of the
democratic process in Nicaragua, ano there 15 space in a democratic Nicaragua
for all political points of view," Busn saio at a meeting with the nation's
governors, who are noiding their winter conterence in the capitai.
Busn salo ne nao talked to president Larios Anares perez of venezuela
about possible traoe ano economic measures to assist the new chamorro
government. ine economy or Nicaragua under the Sanoinistas IS in snamoles, ano
that reportedly was a major factor in the vote against vrtega.
However, the Busn aoministration 15 aiready operating under a tignt tiscal
Duaget ano nas the 20020 expense of the invasion of Panama and the follow-on ald
to 0221 with. And Longress, which for most of the last decade nas Deen wrapped
in a Ditter Dattle over aioing the contra guerrillas in Nicaragua, quickly
Decame emoroiled in the question of where to tino the money to tuno an aid
package.
mariin itzwater, the white House press secretary, acknowledged us
responsibility for neiping Nicaragua after unamorro's victory. "we certainly
Teel a special responsibility for the people or Nicaragua and the courageous
action that they nave taken to Dring these elections about," ne 5310.
Fitzwater salo Busn wanted to litt US sanctions "as soon as It 15
reasidie." The sanctions, imposea on may 1, 1985, DY President Reagan, oar
imports from Nicaragua, oan US exports to It and pronidit Nicaraguan aircraft
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(C) 1990, The Boston G100e, February LI, 1990
or Doats from entering the United states.
Ut more immeolate concern to the white House was making sure that the
us-tinanced contras 2010e by Busn's call for an eno to any turtner military
activity DY the contras or the Sanoinistas. The aoversaries nave waged a vicious
and costly war over the last oecade.
pressea on wnetner the contras snoulo lay oown their weapons, Fitzwater
repeated merely that the tree election means there IS no need for military
action. "uur aovice" to the contras "15 that there's no need for furtner
military conflict," ne salo.
Busn salo ne would sena congratulations to Lnamorro for ner victory and
to vrtega for conducting the election with fairness and for nis pleage to a010e
oy the result.
ADmIniStration Officials were Deing careful not to gloat over urtega's
defeat.
un capitol HILL, Sen. Kobert 2018 of kansas, the Republican minority leader,
once again oroacheo the 10ea or taking tunos away from top recipients of US a10,
such as israel, ano redirecting the money to countries sucn as Nicaragua.
"we must provide ner new government with 310," vote sa10, referring to
unamorro. "Ano 18t's not K10 ourselves: we're talking about 01g DUCKS in 210 .
It raises the same 010 question - the question we are tacing for Eastern
Europe ano Panama - where are we going to get the money? The world 15 changing,
DUT our bank account 1sn [."
VOLE'S suggestion of oiverting money from israel and other countries 15
certain to De contestea. inere WILL 000011600 DE calls for Busn to orop MIS
pieage of "no new taxes" as well as a pusn to take money from the aetense Duaget
as part or the so-called "peace oivioeno."
Sen. George Mitchell or maine, the majority leader, said vemocrats want to
review a request from the chamorro government and the white House Defore
proposing an a10 package.
inomas 5. toley or washington, the House speaker, meanwnile, swept as10e
questions about where to tino the money. "inese questions weren't raiseo when
we were spending nunoreas or millions in military alo for the contras," saio
Foley.
inrougnout Longress yesterday, there was an air of seit-congratulation, with
many Republicans saying that Lnamorro's victory would not nave Deen possidie
witnout steadfast support for the contras.
" I C wasn't until President keagan took a naro line toward vrtega ano secured
funding for the Nicaraguan freedom fighters that the Sanoinistas y1e10e0 ano,
under the central American accords, agreed to Sunday's elections, saio Sen.
boroon Humpnrey, the NEW Hampsnire Republican.
But Kep. J. Josepn Moakley, the vemocrat from massacnusetts, creaited the
peace pian put torward oy President uscar Arias of Losta Kica. "It 15 important
to realize that this 15 not a victory for us policy aiding the contras," salo
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(C) 1990, The Boston February LI, 1990
moakley. " Inis IS a victory for the Arias central American peace plan which
preacned oialogue, reconcillation ano oemocratic elections."
GRAPHIC: PHOTO, President Busn nails violeta unamorro's victory as ne
gestures ouring an adoress to the nation's governors at the white House
yesterday. From lett are: GOV. ierry Branstao of Iowa, GOV. Bill Liinton of
Arkansas, GOV. Booth baroner of washington, and GOV. carroll campoell or South
carolina. / AH phuiu
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3RD STURY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
copyright (C) 1990 Chicago irioune Company;
Chicago irioune
February LI, 1990, iuesday, NURTH SPORTS FINAL EDITION
SECTION: NEWS; Pg. 1; ZUNE: L
LENGTH: 1056 woros
HEADLINE: Vutcome puts U.S. on the spot
BYLINE: By George 02 Lama, Chicago irioune
UATELINE: WASHINGTON
BUDY:
The stunning electoral victory in Nicaragua by the U.S.-Dacked opposition
monoay set the stage for a reversal in relations Detween wasnington and managua
that soon coulo eno a decade of nostility and 010005neo.
Puolisher violeta Lnamorro's trouncing or President vaniel urtega and nis
Sanoinista government also may improve the prospects for peace in E1 Salvador,
turtner isolate communist cuoa ano neip the U.S. ano Nicaragua improve their
ties to the rest or Latin America, senior Busn aoministration Officials ano
other experts on the region 5810.
But serious oostacles witnin ano outside Nicaragua also 100m as unamorro
and ner U.S. patrons navigate an uncharted patn to democracy in a nation that
nas known mainly political turmoil ano violence for more than a century, the
analysts acknowledged.
unier among them were wnetner the Sanoinistas would relinquisn control of
their large army ano secret police forces, and whetner U.S. -supported contra
redels WOULD lay oown their arms ano return to Nicaraguan society.
President Busn called for an immediate cease-tire Detween the army ano the
contras as the first step to reconciliation, saying, "inere 15 no reason at all
for military activity from any quarter."
Busn a102s acknowledged they also face another proolem: At a time when the
U.S. races new oemanos for alo from numerous former dictatorships from Eastern
Europe to Panama, where WILL wasnington tino the money to neip redullo
Nicaragua's war-ravageo economy?
ine electoral outcome was seen by administration Officials as a clear victory
for Busn ano nis oecision last year to scale back U.S. military a10 to the
contras and instead seek Dipartisan congressional support for an electoral
solution in Nicaragua.
ADministration Officials were not gloating, DUT one a10e sa10 Busn's policy
succeeded where tormer President konaio Reagan's "Olvisive, Ditterly emotional"
policy or supporting the redels at all costs nao talled.
A number or other other factors nelpea intluence events in Nicaragua,
including Soviet President MIKNAIL bordachev's efforts to restrain the
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IC) 1990 Chicago iribune, February LI, 1990
Sandinistas, the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe, pressure from the
central American peace pian ano the presence of some 2,500 foreign observers in
Nicaragua on Election way.
Longressional vemocrats were even claiming part of the creait, saying the
vote represented an enoorsement or their preference for a political ratner than
a military solution to the prodiems in Nicaragua. The Busn aoministration 010
not take issue, apparently feeling there was enough credit to go arouno.
The chamarro victory clearly caught the white House Off guard. IT was Jimmy
larter, an electoral observer in Nicaragua and the U.S. president when the
Sanoinistas come to power, who informed Secretary of State James A. baker 111 of
the opposition triumpn with a pnone call snortly after 4 a.m. monoay.
Baker in turn called Busn with the news. But witnin nours, aoministration
sources saio, the seit-congratulations turnea to tough questions in an urgent
pianning session the president called at the white House:
what snoulo the U.S. 00 It the Sanoinistas retuse to nano over power? HOW
0025 the U.S. neip keep together the fractious opposition, united only in ITS
loatning of the Sandinistas, now that 1t won the election? HOW quickly snould
the U.S. move to litt economic sanctions? when snouto the U.S. urge the contras
to come oown from the nills? Ano, most important, now 0025 washington put
together a large enough alo package to make a oifference?
The president ano nis aides reached no answers monoay to any of these
questions, senior officials salo.
"AS a first step, WE Just sat oown to 10entity all these issues we nave to
02c102. we oon't have any magic formula," salo one senior aoministration
Official who attended the white House meeting.
"we know we nave to get violeta chamorro and UNU ther National upposition
union) all the neip we can. They naven't nao any experience in governing; they
naven't Deen through this Defore. inere 15 no doubt this 15 going to DE very
altticult."
Seeking to avoio any neavy-nanded tactics that WOULD give the Sandinistas an
excuse to retain power, Busn called venezueian President Larios Anores perez
to ask nis support in neiping unamorro form a government, ano in notaing the
Sanoinistas to their word that they WITI nano over power peacefully.
UT particular concern IS wnetner the Sanoinistas WILL cede control of their
pattie-naroened army, an extension of their political movement, ano 01503no
their secret police.
Holoing together the snaky UNU coalition 15 another altticult proposition,
aoministration Officials conceae.
Kioroan koett, airector of Latin American studies at Jonns Hopkins
university's School or Advanced international Studies, called cnamarro "a Lory
Aquino repeat, trying to govern in a country with deep olvisions and tensions,"
ne 5310, reterring to tne president of the Pnilippines. "Sne can't De seen as a
puppet or George Busn, " ne a0020.
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(C) 1990 Chicago iribune, February L/, 1990
A already nas begun witnin the aoministration about now soon to litt
economic sanctions against Nicaragua that were imposeo in 1985: Snouto the U.S.
act Defore Chamorro's scheouled inauguration April L5 or wait until after the
Sanoinistas step down?
"WE naven't even come close to deciding any of that; It's STILL too early.
But we nave to 02c10e that pretty soon," a senior white House Official salo.
inere are other WILD caros as well, officials salo. For one thing, no one
knows what the reaction or cuba WITT DE, nor what aovice a presumably 015mayeo
ano angry F 1021 castro Will give vrtega.
Lett Denino by the sea or change sweeping the communist world, castro 15
increasingly an outcast Decause or nis anti-oemocratic ways. NOW ne COULO neip
the Sanoinistas facilitate the coming transition in Nicaragua, or ne coulo
persuage them to impeoe it, Officials say.
A150 not known 15 wnetner the Sandinistas' 1055 WILL 1ead lettist guerrillas
in neignooring t1 Salvaoor back to the oargaining taole for peace negotiations
with the right-wing government there.
U.S. ano Salvadoran Officials 0811206 a new government in Nicaragua WILL
increase the pressure for peace talks. But marxist naro-iiners in managua,
Havana and t1 Salvador coulo yet 08c10e to step up the war, analysts tear.
TERMS: NICARAGUA; ELECTION; RESULT; OPPOSITION; GROUP; UNITED STATES; SUPPORT;
ECONOMY; FINANCE; relation; REACTION; IRADE
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51H STURY or Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright (C) TYYU The New York Times company;
ine New York Times
February LI, 1990, ruesoay, Late Edition - Final
SECTION: Section A; Page is, Lolumn >; Foreign vesk
LENGTH: 315 words
HEADLINE: turnover in Nicaragua;
Busn's Remarks on Nicaragua
BYLINE: AH
VAIELINE: WASHINGTON, Feo. 26
BUDY:
Following 15 a transcript of President Busn's remarks today on the election
in Nicaragua, as recordeo DY The ASSOCIATED press. The President spoke at a
meeting of the National bovernors' ASSOCIATION.
Any trieno of democracy can take neart in the fact that violeta chamorro
won the election. Ano the election process, by all accounts tree and fair, 15 a
credit to the people or Nicaragua, who cnose to determine their nature's future,
nation's future at the 08110t DOX. Ano that 15 a victory for democracy.
resteroay's election moves us one step closer to the day when every nation in
this nemisphere 15 a democracy, ano I'll soon sena messages - 1 think they may
nave aiready gone out to - to mrs. chamorro, congratuiating ner on ner
victory; to President urtega, congratuiating nim on the conduct of the election
and on nis pieage to stano DY ITS results; to President carter ano nis
counterpart on that one, van Evans; to Mr. Soares of the U.A.S.; to perez 02
Luellar and Elliot kicnaroson or the United Nations for their Leading roles in
ooserving the elections.
in the next TEW days, I'll DE speaking with central and South American
leaders. inis morning 1 talked to President carios Andres perez or venezuela
about appropriate trade and economic measures that we can take to support the
new Government of Nicaragua.
we nope now for a peacetul transition, for the Institutionalization of the
oemocratic process in Nicaragua, and there 15 space in a democratic Nicaragua
for all political points of view.
Given a clear manoate for peace ano democracy, there 15 no reason at all for
turtner military activity from any quarter, ano we nope the cease-tire WILL De
re-estaolisned without 021ay ano respected DY all 51025.
For years the people of Nicaragua nave suttereo, and today the people of
Nicaragua have spoken. Ano now 15 the time for Nicaragua to move forward to
freedom.
GRAPHIC: Photo: inere 15 no reason at all for turtner military activity from
any quarter, salo President Busn, who called Nicaragua's election a
mangate for peace.
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(C) 1990 The NEW York limes, February LI, 1990
SUBJECT: ELECTIONS; UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS;
NICARAGUA-INIERNATIUNAL RELATIONS-US
NAME: BUSH, GEORGE (PRES)
GEUGRAPHIC: NICARAGUA
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background
notes
Venezuela
United States Department of State
April 198
Bureau of Public Affairs
1987.
NICA
8 PANAMA
1
Anti-Drugs
F Debt.
Infant mortality rate-27.3/1,000. Life
Economy
expectancy-70 yrs. Work force (about 6
Caribbeen Sea
million): Agriculture-15%. Industry and
Real GDP (1985): $50 billion. Real annual
Atlantic
Ocean
commerce-35%. Services-26%. Other-24%.
growth rate (1984-85): -0.4%. Real per
Caracas
capita income: $2,629. Avg. inflation rate
(1985): 11.4%.
Government
VENEZUELA
Natural resources: Petroleum, natural
SUYANA
Type: Federal republic. Independence:
gas, coal, iron ore, gold, other minerals,
COLOMBIA
July 5, 1821. Constitution: January 23, 1961.
hydroelectric power, bauxite.
Branches: Executive-president (head of
Agriculture (7.4% of GDP): Products-
government and chief of state); 24-member
rice, coffee, corn, sugar, bananas, and dairy
Council of Ministers (Cabinet). Legislative-
meat, and poultry products. Land-4%.
BRAZIL
bicameral Congress (200-member Chamber of
Industry (19% of GDP): Types-
Deputies, 47-member Senate). Judicial-
petrochemicals, oil refining, iron and steel,
18-member Supreme Court.
paper products, aluminum, textiles, transpc
Subdivisions: 20 states, 2 federal ter-
equipment, consumer products.
ritories, 1 federal district, and a federal
Trade (1985): Exports-$14.2 billion:
Official Name:
dependence (72 islands).
petroleum ($12.8 billion), iron ore, coffee,
Republic of Venezuela
Political parties: Democratic Action
steel, aluminum, cocoa. Major markets-US
(Accion Democratica-AD), Social Christian
Canada, Italy, Japan, Spain, FRG.
(Comite Organizador Politico pro Elecciones
Imports-$7.3 billion: machinery and
Independientes-COPED). Other parties-
transport equipment, manufactured goods,
PROFILE
minor, which gained representation to the
chemicals, foodstuffs. Major suppliers-US.
National Congress Dec. 1983: Movement to
Japan, Canada, FRG, France, Italy, Brazil.
Socialism (Movimiento al Socialismo-MAS);
Official exchange rate: Preferential-
Geography
People's Electoral Movement (Movimiento
14.5 bolivares=US$1. In February 1983,
Area: 912,050 sq. km. (352,143 sq. mi.); about
Electoral del Pueblo-MEP); Republican
Venezuela adopted a multitiered exchange
the size of Texas and Oklahoma combined.
Democratic Union (Union Republicana
rate system. In December 1986, the govern
Cities: Capital-Caracas (metropolitan area
Democratica-URD); New Alternative (Nueva
ment decreed an official exchange rate of 1
pop. est. 4.0 million). Terrain: Varied.
Alternativa-NA); Movement of the Revolu-
per US$1 for specified products and
Climate: Varies from tropical to temperate,
tionary Left (Movimiento de Izquierda
transactions.
depending on elevation.
Revolucionaria-MIR); Movement of National
Fiscal year: Calendar year.
Integrity (Movimiento de Integridad
People
Nacional-MIN); National Opinion (Opinion
Membership in International
Nacional-OPINA); and Venezuelan Com-
Organizations
Nationality: Noun and adjective-
munist Party (Partido Communista de
Venezuelan(s). Population (1986): 17,791,000.
Venezuela-PCV). Suffrage: Universal and
UN and some of its specialized and related
Annual growth rate: 2.7%. Ethnic groups:
compulsory over 18.
agencies, including membership in the Secu
Spanish. Italian, Portuguese, Arab, German,
Central government budget (1985): $13.1
ity Council (1986-87); Organization of
Amerindian. African. Religions: Roman
billion.
American States (OAS); International Coff
Catholic 96%, Protestant 2%. Languages:
Flag: Three horizontal bands-yellow,
Agreement; Latin American Integration
Spanish (official), Indian dialects spoken by
blue, and red, with a crest in a corner of the
Association (ALADI); Andean Pact; Rio P:
yellow band and a semicircle of seven stars in
some of the 200,000 Amerindians in the
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Cour
the middle of the blue band. The colors come
remote interior. Education: Years
tries (OPEC); Latin American Energy
from the banner flown by Simon Bolivar; the
Organization (OLADE); Latin American St
compulsory-9. Literacy-88.4%. Health:
stars represent the seven provinces.
Reciprocal Petroleum Assistance (ARPEL
Latin American Economic System (SELA)
Andres Bello Agreement.
CARIBBEA
60
12
IMADA
Punto
NETHERLANDS
Riohacha
Fijo
ANTILLES
Paragualpos
Coro
Capatárida
Asuncion
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
Puerto
Maracaibo
Cabello
La Guairs
San Felipe
Cumana
Carupano
CARACAS
-OF-SPAIN
Machiques
Barquisimeto
Puente
Maracay
Los Teques
TLANTIC
Lake
Torres
Valencia
Pan
Barcelona
Meracalbo
High
San Juan
jawy
Maturin
OCEAN
Agua
San
de los Morros
Encontrados
Vive
Trujillo
Carlos
Tucupita
American
Guanare
Tigre
Merida
Barinas
AGMYBIN
Ciudad
Curiano
Guayana
San José
inoco
de Amacur
San Cristóbal
San
Ciudad
And
Fernando
Mapire
Bolivar
Rio
Caicara
Ciudad
Piar
El
Rio
Manteco
Tumeremo
Caura
La Escalera
Puerto Ayacucho
Uriman
Samariapo
Santa Elena
Rio Orinoco
VENEZUELA
Esmeralda
Casiquiare
International boundary
National capital
Boca
Brazo
Mavaca
Railroad
Road
San Carlos
de Rio Negro
International airport
0
50
100
150 Miles
0 50 100 150 Kilometers
GEOGRAPHY
The plains or llanos, extending
PEOPLE
from the mountains south and east to
Venezuela spans the major sea and air
the Orinoco River; and
Most Venezuelans are of European,
routes linking the northern and southern
The Guyana Highlands, a vast
Amerindian, and/or African descent. The
parts of the Western Hemisphere. Its
area of high plateaus and rolling plains
most recent influx of European immigra-
coastline is 2,816 kilometers (1,750 mi.)
south and east of the Orinoco. Angel
tion dates to the early 1950s, when large
on the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic
Falls, the world's highest waterfall, is in
numbers of Spanish, Italian, and Por-
Ocean. Venezuela also claims the ter-
this area.
tuguese immigrants arrived. The 1981
ritory east of the present boundary to
the Essequibo River, which was
Although the entire country lies in
census showed that 94% of the people
allocated to Guyana by the Arbitral
the torrid zone, the temperature varies
are native born; of the foreign born,
Award of 1899.
with the altitude. The lowland coastal
most came from Spain, Italy, Portugal,
area is hot and humid, as are the inland
Africa, and Colombia. As of 1986, about
Venezuela has four distinct
geographic regions:
river valleys. The highlands generally
17,000 U.S. citizens were living in
are warm during the day and cool at
Venezuela. Unlike many of its neighbors,
The Andes Mountains and adja-
night. For most of the country, the rainy
Venezuela does not have a large Amerin-
cent hill country in the northwest;
season is from May through November;
dian population.
The coastal zone north of the
the rest of the year is dry. Caracas is
Venezuela is one of the Western
mountains bordering Lake Maracaibo
located in a valley at 900 meters (3,000
Hemisphere's least densely populated
and the Caribbean Sea, including the
ft.) and averages 23 °C (74 °F) year
countries. Most of the population is con-
Orinoco Delta;
round.
centrated in the Andes and along the
coast. Although nearly half of the land
area lies south and east of the Orinoco
immigrants, many of them undocu-
River, that area contains only 4% of the
President Caldera was succeeded by
mented, from other Latin American and
AD's Carlos Andres Perez, a veteran
population.
Caribbean countries. Industrial wages,
party politician and former Betancourt
The annual population increase since
benefits, and working conditions remain
1950 has been about 3.4%. Although it
interior minister, who won by a landslic
relatively high, an achievement of
in a field of a dozen candidates. The
has declined in recent years to 2.7%, it is
Venezuela's large, disciplined multiparty
still one of the world's highest. The
labor movement.
Perez administration initiated a huge
population is rapidly changing from rural
government program of industrial
to urban. In 1936, only 35% of the
expansion and consolidated state owner
population lived in cities and towns of
HISTORY
ship of extractive industries, such as
more than 1,000 inhabitants; today about
petroleum. With this accomplishment,
80% do. One out of every five Venezue-
Venezuela became a Third World leader
Venezuela was discovered by Columbus
lans lives in Caracas.
in 1498 on his third voyage. It was one
President Luis Herrera Campins of
of the first colonies in the New World to
the COPEI succeeded Perez in a hotly
Social and Economic Issues
revolt against Spain (1810), but inde-
contested race in December 1978. Her-
pendence was not achieved until 1821
rera ran on a platform of improved
Venezuela's wealth is distributed
social services and more efficient
under the leadership of Simon Bolivar
unevenly, and a significant percentage of
Venezuela's native son and continental
government, winning by about 200,000
the population has inadequate nutrition,
hero. Venezuela, with what are now
votes out of 5 million. AD, however,
housing, clothing, and education. These
Colombia, Panama, and Ecuador, was
retained control of the Congress. The
problems are complicated by the tremen-
part of the Republic of Gran Colombia
country's mounting economic ills, follov
dous pressures created by rapid popula-
until 1830, when it separated and
ing in the wake of a world recession,
tion growth. Venezuela doubles its
became a sovereign state.
posed the greatest problem to the Her-
population about every 20 years; 40%
Venezuela's 19th century history is
rera government. In February 1982,
are under 15 years of age, and 70% are
characterized by frequent periods of
Herrera instituted currency control
under 30.
political instability, dictatorial rule, and
measures which, in effect, devalued the
The literacy rate among Venezuelans
bolivar. Herrera also led his nation in th
revolutionary turbulence. The 20th cen-
15 years of age and older was 88.4% in
tury has been marked by long periods of
search for peace in Central America;
1985. The government encourages those
Venezuela, in conjunction with Colombi
authoritarianism-dictatorships of Gen.
who can read and write to assist those
Mexico, and Panama, formed the "Con
Juan Vicente Gomez (1908-35) and Gen.
who cannot by distributing training
Marcos Perez Jimenez (1950-58)-as
tadora Group," whose efforts are aime-
materials-books and tapes-throughout
well as by a democratic interlude,
at avoiding armed conflict in the region
the country.
President Jaime Lusinchi of AD WO
between 1936 and 1948. Since the over-
The first 9 years of primary educa-
the 1983 presidential election with the
throw of Perez Jimenez on January 23,
tion are compulsory. Of children aged
1958, democratic elections have been
largest majority in Venezuela's 27 years
13-18, 45.9% are enrolled in day or
of democratic government. The AD
held in 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978,
special evening classes. In addition,
and 1983.
Party retained control of the Congress
adults are urged to participate in special
with increased majorities in both house
Romulo Betancourt (1959-64), of the
night classes conducted at all educational
levels.
Democratic Action Party (AD), became
Confronted with falling revenues due t
the first popularly elected president in
the declining price of petroleum, the
Venezuela has 13 public universities,
Lusinchi administration refinanced $22
Venezuelan history to complete his term
7 private universities, and 11 private
in office. His administration, with the
billion of Venezuela's $25.5 billion (end
polytechnic or university institutes.
of 1985) external public debt. As a
cooperation of the Democratic Republic
Total enrollment of university-level
Union (URD) and the country's second
member of the Contadora Group, the
students in 1985 was 388,886, a 75%
Lusinchi government maintains the COI
increase over 1975.
largest party, the Social Christian Party
mitment to peace and democratization
(COPEI), embarked upon a path of
Until recently, Venezuela's major
Central America.
development and democracy. President
employment problem was a shortage of
Betancourt, surviving extremist threats
skilled workers and managers to operate
from rightist military and civilians and
GOVERNMENT
what had been a burgeoning and increas-
ingly technological economy. To fill the
from leftist subversives supported by the
Castro regime of Cuba, modernized the
gap, Venezuela recruited many skilled
The constitution, Venezuela's 26th sinc
government and produced numerous
foreign technicians, expanded its
independence, guarantees freedom of
social reforms.
technical education facilities, and sent
religion, speech, and assembly and
His AD successor, Raul Leoni
Venezuelans abroad for training. With
assigns substantial economic develop-
(1964-69), consolidated and continued
the economic decline of the past few
ment responsibility to the federal
many of these reforms. However, the
government.
years, rising unemployment has dis-
AD-COPEI coalition split, and further
placed the lack of technically qualified
National elections are held every 5
internal AD divisions led to the narrow
personnel-though still a significant
years in which the president, members
factor-as the primary manpower
victory of Rafael Caldera (1969-74), a
of Congress, and the state legislatures
COPEI university professor and interna-
concern.
are elected. The president can be elect
tional labor expert. His March 1969
While an official survey in December
to only one term and may not be
1982 put unemployment at only 7%, by
inauguration marked the country's first
reelected until 10 years after the end
1985 the official estimate was 12.1%.
peaceful transfer of power to a president
that term. Ex-presidents are life
Some private sector and labor organiza-
from another political party. Among the
members of the Senate. Voting is man
tions put the figure as high as 20%.
initiatives of the Caldera government
datory for all Venezuelan citizens who
was Venezuela's entrance into the
Despite the recent contraction of its
are at least 18 years old and who are r
Andean Pact.
economy, Venezuela remains a goal for
convicts or members of the armed
Aerial view of Caracas.
forces. Generally, more than 80% of
In domestic affairs, the Venezuelan
those registered vote. Each political
Principal Government Officials
Government's goals are to:
party has its own ballot with a distinc-
President-Jaime Lusinchi
tive color and symbol. Elections are
Preserve and protect free and
democratic institutions and to maintain
Ministers
supervised by an independent, federally
appointed electoral commission.
public order;
Interior-Jose Angel Ciliberto
The executive, legislative, and
Strengthen and modernize the
Foreign Relations-Simon Alberto
judicial branches are separate. The presi-
armed forces;
Consalvi
dent has extensive powers, including the
Eliminate the socioeconomic con-
Finance-Manuel Azpurua Arreaza
power to appoint the Council of
ditions which foster crime and to
Defense-Maj. Gen. Jose Rafael Cardozo
Ministers (cabinet) and state and ter-
upgrade law enforcement resources;
Grimaldi
ritorial governors by decree, without
Enforce legal sanctions in cases of
Development-Gustavo Mirabal
congressional confirmation. State gover-
public malfeasance;
Bustillos
nors and other officials are considered
Refinance the external public debt
Education-Luis Manuel Carbonell
part of the national government, though
without generating undesirable effects
Health and Social Welfare-Otto Her-
their powers are limited by their states'
on the living standards;
nandez Peretti
constitutions and elected legislatures.
Decrease the role of the public sec-
Agriculture and Livestock-Felipe
Legislative responsibility is vested in
tor in the national economy and to
Gomez Alvarez
the bicameral Congress, whose principal
impose strict controls on public
Labor-Simon Antoni Pavan
powers are the capacity to approve,
borrowing;
Transport and Communications-Juan
alter, or reject the budget and to censure
Reorient the national industrial
Pedro Del Moral
acts of the executive branch.
base to production of essential goods to
Justice-Jose Manzo Gonzalez
Judicial power is exercised by the
meet basic needs, generate jobs, fight
Energy and Mines-Arturo Hernandez
Supreme Court of Justice and lower
inflation, and save foreign exchange; and
Grisanti
courts. The nine members and nine alter-
Improve the physical infrastruc-
Environment and Natural Resources-
nate judges of the Supreme Court are
ture necessary to an expanded role for
Guillermo Colmenares Finol
elected by Congress for 9-year terms.
agriculture.
Urban Development-Cesar Quintana
Romero
Youth-Virginia Olivo De Celli
Minister to the Presidency-Carmelo
Lauria Lesseur
4
Ministers of State
Coordination and Planning-Leopoldo
Carnevali
Travel Notes
President of the Venezuelan Investment
Fund-Hector Hurtado
Customs: US citizens need a tourist card or
Culture-Paulina Gamus
visa, a US passport, and a travel ticket valid
tional airline has daily flights to several US
for onward passage. Tourist cards may be
cities. Caracas' Maiquetia Airport has becon
Science and Technology-Tulio Arends
an important international travel center in
President of the Venezuelan Corporation
obtained from airlines or travel agencies,
visas from the Venezuelan Embassy or a con-
the Caribbean. An underground metro syste
of Guayana-Leopoldo Sucre
serving Caracas is under construction with
sulate. Business visitors who do not enter
Figarella
Venezuela on a tourist card or tourist visa
stations in operation. Completion of the
Basic Production and Coordination of
system is scheduled for 1987.
must obtain a solvencia (tax release) before
State Enterprises-Vacant
leaving Venezuela. For information, call
Tourist attractions: Caracas-colonial
Governor of the Federal District-
Caracas 35-35-52.
Caracas, botanical gardens, many museums.
Miguel Angel Contreras Laguado
Climate and clothing: Springweight clothing
tours. Outlying areas-colonial Tovar, a Ger
Ambassador to the United Nations-
is appropriate in Caracas, which has an
man settlement 48 kilometers (30 mi.) from
Caracas; beautiful cataracts at Canaima
Andres Aguilar
altitude of a little over 914 m. (3,000 ft.) and
include Angel Falls, the world's highest;
Ambassador to the OAS-Edilberto
an average temperature of 23 °C (74 °F). The
rainy season is from May to November.
breathtaking Andean scenery at Merida.
Moreno Pena
Elsewhere, temperatures vary with altitude,
There are two world-class hotels in Caracas
Ambassador to the United States-
from a lowland average of 27 °C (80 °F) or
with a total of 1,505 rooms. Several other
Valentin Hernandez
more to below freezing at 4,500 m. (15,000
hotels are frequently used by international
ft.) or higher.
travelers.
Venezuela maintains an embassy in
the United States at 2445 Massachusetts
Health: Medical services are good for most
Local holidays: Businesses and the US
Ave. NW., Washington, D.C. 20008 (tel.
purposes. Essential medicines are available
Embassy may be closed on the following
202-797-3800). Consulates general are
locally. Tapwater should be boiled and
holidays:
in Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Houston,
vegetables carefully prepared. No immuniza-
tions are required for travelers arriving from
New Year's Day
Jan.
Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New
Carnival
the United States.
Monday and Tuesday befo
York, Philadelphia, Portland, and San
Ash Wednesday
Francisco. Visas are issued only by
Telecommunications: Long-distance
Holy Week
Thursday and Good Frid
consulates.
telephone and telegraph sevices are available.
Declaration of Independence
April
Direct-dial service is available to the United
Labor Day
May
States and more than 60 other countries.
Independence Day
July
Venezuela is one standard time zone ahead of
Bolivar's Birthday
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
July
eastern standard time. Venezuela does not
Day of the Public Functionary
September
observe daylight saving time.
Columbus Day
October
President Carlos Andres Perez used the
Christmas Day
December
country's vast new petroleum revenues
Transportation: Principal Venezuelan cities
to launch an ambitious domestic eco-
in the interior are connected by air, highway,
and rail with Caracas. Venezuela's interna-
nomic expansion program in metallur-
gical, agricultural, petrochemical, and
other fields and placed more than
$5 billion abroad in short-term invest-
The enthusiastic voter turnout in the
ments and development loans and other
important member of the Latin Ameri
such assistance for developing countries.
1983 presidential elections and lively
can Energy Organization (OLADE).
President Herrera Campins of
ongoing debate among the political par-
In 1985, oil accounted for about 90
COPEI took office in March 1979 with a
ties are testimony to the strength of
democractic institutions in South
of Venezuela's total merchandise expo
Congress in which the opposition AD
income, 61% of the government's
party had a plurality. Herrera Campins'
America's oldest democracy. Despite
revenues, and some 22% of the gross
administration was faced with rising
mounting economic and social problems,
domestic product (GDP). The govern-
Venezuelans have continued to seek
political and social tensions during its
ment nationalized the industry on
political change through democratic
tenure, primarily because of a
January 1, 1976. Since then, employ-
national economic downturn, declining
processes, setting an example for other
ment has doubled, income has quad-
nations of the region.
petroleum prices, overseas capital flight,
rupled, and production of crude oil has
and rising unemployment. Public discon-
declined.
tent resulted in a sweeping victory by
Crude oil and condensate producti
ECONOMY
the opposition party candidate Jaime
peaked in 1970 at 3.7 million barrels pt
Lusinchi in December 1983, the largest
day (b/d). Production was 1.7 million b
electoral landslide since that of Romulo
Venezuela is a major producer and
in 1985. The initial decline was due to
Gallegos in 1948.
exporter of oil. A founding member of
government conservation policies and
Although the Lusinchi administra-
the Organization of Petroleum Export-
low investment in exploration and
tion has vigorously attacked the nation's
ing Countries (OPEC), it plays a key role
development. In recent years, howeve
social and economic problems, the
in the world oil market. Mexico and
it has been attributable to the weak
continuing deterioration of the world
Venezuela have begun granting loans to
world oil market. Venezuela has seven
petroleum market and the nation's
Central American and Caribbean Basin
on-line refineries. These refineries giv
approximately $39 billion debt has
nations on the basis of oil purchased
the country a capability of exporting
limited the government's options.
from both countries. Venezuela is also an
about one-third of its production as
refined products, a position unique
among OPEC members. In 1985,
Venezuela exported about 51% of its
production to the United States.
Venezuela produced 14.9 million
metric tons (MT) of iron ore in 1985.
Exports were 9 million MT; about 2.1
million MT went to the United States.
As of December 1985, iron ore reserves
were estimated at 2.1 billion MT.
Also in 1985, Venezuela's installed
steel production capacity was 4.8 million
MT. Production was 3 million MT of
ingots and 2.4 million MT of products.
Aluminum production was 396,000 MT
of primary ingots. Installed aluminum
capacity is 400,000.
Agriculture and Industry
Agriculture accounted for 7.4% of GDP
in 1985 (compared to 6.9% in 1984 and
6.8% in 1983) and employed about 15%
of the labor force. Agricultural produc-
tion in 1985 experienced a sharp upturn,
with a total of 1.83 million hectares
devoted to crops as compared to 1.59
million in both 1984 and 1983. Following
the currency devaluation in February
1983, the Venezuelan Government ini-
tiated import controls, restricted
agricultural imports to bulk commodities
for processing, and prohibited most proc-
essed and luxury food items. The United
States continues to be the main supplier
Parque del Este is a popular park for early morning jogs amid hundreds of tropical birds.
of agricultural products, despite
Venezuela's policy of diversifying
Venezuela is currently self-sufficient
sources and seeking trade integration
stagnation apparent since 1978. Per
between Latin American countries. Dur-
in rice, corn, tropical fruits, vegetables,
capita GNP, also on the decline, was
ing 1985, U.S. food and agricultural
roots, poultry, and pork. Self-sufficiency
about $2,600. Central government
in sorghum, sugar, and milk could be
products sales were $650 million
income in 1985 was $14.4 billion, while
achieved in the short or medium term.
(f.o.b.)-accounting for more than 50%
spending was only $13.1 billion,
For the foreseeable future, Venezuela
of total agricultural imports-compared
resulting in a budget surplus of $1.3
to $775 and $665 million in 1984 and
will continue importing oilseeds, protein
billion.
meals, and vegetable oils. Coffee and
1983, respectively. Preliminary 1986
estimates call for U.S. agricultural sales
cocoa are the traditional export crops,
with tropical fruits offering new export
Investment, Currency, and Trade
to decline by about 10%, since the
opportunities.
Venezuelan Government has signaled
About 46% of gross fixed investment
Manufacturing grew 3% in 1985 and
that it will continue substituting imports
came from the private sector in 1984,
accounted for 19% of GDP and, like
by sustaining increases in domestic
and 54% from the government. Public
agricultural growth, reflected increased
production.
and private investment dropped to 15%
Venezuela's agricultural policy was
import substitution. Triggered by cur-
of GDP in 1984 from about 42% in 1978.
rency exchange incentives, export of
substantially modified by the Lusinchi
U.S. direct investment in Venezuela
some manufactured items has been
administration, which set out to convert
was $1.7 billion at the end of 1984 or
steadily increasing.
agriculture into an important sector of
6.1% of the total U.S. investment in
the economy. The main measures taken
Venezuela is one of the top four
Latin America. Venezuela ranks fifth
hydroelectric power producers in Latin
to spur production have been increased
after Brazil, Mexico, Panama, and
America. The Guri Dam on the Caroni
producer prices, fertilizer subsidy,
Argentina in the amount of U.S. invest-
River in eastern Venezuela, with an
increased crop and livestock production
ment. The United States accounts for
installed capacity of 525,000 kilowatts of
credit at preferential interest rate, long-
the majority of foreign investment in
electricity in late 1968, was expanded to
term loans to the private sector to
Venezuela; in 1985, 55% of new invest-
14.5 million kilowatts by 1982.
expand livestock and crop areas, govern-
ment came from the United States.
ment financed large-scale irrigation, and
External public debt in December
drainage and other infrastructure
GNP and Budget
1985 amounted to $25.5 billion; foreign
projects.
exchange reserves totaled $13.8 billion.
In 1985, GNP totaled about $50 billion.
The consumer price index rose 11.4% on
GNP decreased slightly in real terms in
average in 1985. In 1985, about 48% of
1985, continuing the pattern of near-
Venezuela's exports went to the United
States, and 47% of its imports came
from the United States.
6
Of the major services, only the
The right of all peoples to peace
telephone, telegraph, and water supply
and security;
are wholly government owned. The
Further Information
Support for the elimination of
government also owns a steel mill, the
colonialism; and
iron ore and the petrochemical indus-
These titles are provided as a general indica
tries, most of the aluminum industries,
A call for significantly higher
tion of material published on this country.
one of the two domestic airlines, the
export prices for developing countries'
The Department of State does not endorse
international airline, and a chain of
primary products.
unofficial publications.
hotels.
Relations with Guyana are com-
Betancourt, Romulo. Venezuela: Oil and
Venezuela is a member of the
plicated by Venezuela's claim to the area
Politics. Boston: Houghton-Mifflin Co.
1979.
Andean Pact and of the Latin American
up to the Essequibo River, more than
Integration Association (ALADI), which
half the present size of Guyana. The
Bond, Robert D., ed. Contemporary
Venezuela and Its Role in Internationa
replaced the Latin American Free Trade
dispute was under discussion by a
Affairs. New York: New York Univer-
Association in 1980. Joint Venezuelan
Guyana-Venezuela mixed commission
sity Press, 1977.
Government-foreign company
established by a 1966 Geneva agree-
"Venezuela: Where Democra
investments are handled on a case-by-
ment. In June 1970, both countries
Lives." Wilson Quarterly, Autumn 198
case basis and are affected by Andean
agreed to a 12-year moratorium on the
de Madariaga, Salvador. Bolivar. Coral
Pact guidelines.
issue. Following the expiration of the
Gables: University of Miami Press, 195
Geneva agreement in 1982, the dispute
Lombardi, John V. Venezuela: The Search f
was, with the concurrence of both par-
Order, The Dream of Progress. Oxford
ties, referred to the UN Secretary
University Press, 1982.
DEFENSE
General for a determination of suitable
Martz, John D. Accion Democratica: Evolu-
The Venezuelan Armed Forces total
means for settlement.
tion of a Modern Political Party in
Venezuela. Princeton: Princeton Unive
some 58,000 personnel in four service
Since 1970, Venezuela and Colombia
sity Press, 1966.
branches-army, navy (including the
have held sporadic talks about the
Moron, Guillermo. A History of Venezuela.
marine corps), and air force-and the
maritime border in the Gulf of Vene-
New York: Roy, 1963.
Armed Forces of Cooperation (Fuerzas
zuela. Despite the boundary dispute and
Petras, Morley Smith. The Nationalization
Armadas de Cooperacion-FAC), com-
the negative effects that the de facto
Venezuelan Oil. New York: Praeger,
monly known as the National Guard, the
devaluation of the bolivar had on the
1977.
primary mission of which is enforcing
Colombian economy, relations between
Tugwell, Franklin. The Politics of Oil in
Venezuela. Stanford: Stanford Univer-
internal security. By the 1970s, the
the two countries are good and seem to
sity Press, 1975.
armed forces had developed into one of
be improving, especially in intergovern-
the most modern and professional
mental cooperation in controlling nar-
among middle-sized Latin American
cotics trafficking and guerrilla activities
Periodicals
countries. This advance is attributable to
along their common border.
"Business Venezuela." English-language
many factors, the most important of
Under the Perez administration, it
magazine. American Chamber of
which is the vast petroleum revenues
was widely reported that Venezuela pro-
Commerce.
available to the government. Also by the
vided materiel support and advice to the
"Venezuela Up-to-Date," a free quarterly
1970s, the military officer had attained a
Frente Sandinista de Liberacion (FSLN)
publication, is available from the
during their struggle to oust Nicaraguan
Embassy of Venezuela, 2445
generally respected position in society as
Massachusetts Ave. NW., Washingtor
a well-paid professional and supporter of
President Anastasio Somoza Bebayle.
DC 20008.
the democratic process. Since 1959, the
Although Herrera Campins' administra-
armed forces have come to reject a
tion led Andean Pact efforts for a
Available from the Superintendent of
direct role in national politics. In gen-
peaceful transition of government in
Documents, US Government Printing Offic
eral, civil-military relations in Venezuela
Nicaragua, it became increasingly disen-
Washington, DC 20402:
are very good, although the military is
chanted with mounting political repres-
American University. Area Handbook for
beginning to feel the impact of reduced
sion under the Sandinistas. Venezuela
Venezuela. 1977.
budgets.
joined with Colombia, Mexico, and
U.S. Department of State. Venezuela Post
Panama to seek a regional solution to
Report. August 1984.
Central America's problems through the
For information on economic trends, comn
FOREIGN RELATIONS
Contadora process. The Lusinchi govern-
cial development, production, trade regula-
ment has continued this commitment to
tions, and tariff rates, contact the Interna-
tional Trade Administration, US Departme
The Venezuelan Government tradi-
Contadora, playing an active role in the
of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230.
tionally has stated that its international
search for democracy and stability in
conduct will be governed by the follow-
Central America.
ing principles:
change within the framework of a free
Respect for human rights;
U.S.-VENEZUELAN RELATIONS
society; and cooperating in the defens
The right of all peoples to
and security of the Western Hemisphe
self-determination;
The United States and Venezuela share
against aggression or subversion.
Nonintervention in the internal
the objectives of strengthening
Not only does Venezuela endorse
affairs of other nations;
democratic institutions; furthering
theoretical goals of democracy, but it
Peaceful settlement of disputes
between nations;
human rights; accelerating sound
economic, social, and cultural develop-
ment through orderly and progressive
worked with the United States vigor-
Principal U.S. Officials
Caracas (tel. 284-6111/284-7111). Office
ously to promote democracy and human
Ambassador-Otto J. Reich
hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday
rights throughout the hemisphere.
Venezuela has adopted the American
Deputy Chief of Mission-Jeffrey
through Friday. The consulate in
Davidow
Maracaibo is in Edificio Sofimara, Piso
Convention on Human Rights and sup-
ports the Inter-American Commission on
Political Counselor-Claus W. Ruser
3, Calle 77 con Avenida 13 (tel. 84253/
Human Rights. Along with the United
Economic Counselor-Pierce K. Bullen
84254/83054/83055). Office hours are
States, Venezuela has worked toward
Administrative Counselor-Frank M.
8:00 a.m. to noon and 2:00 p.m. to
Schroeder
4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
and supported the goals of nuclear non-
proliferation in the hemisphere, conven-
Consul General-Don E. Bean
Defense and Air Attache-Col. James
Published by the United States Department
tional arms restraint, antiterrorism, and
the promotion of hemispheric economic
Nugent
of State Bureau of Public Affairs Office
development. Venezuela and the United
Public Affairs Counselor-Guy Farmer
of Public Communication Editorial Divi-
Agricultural Counselor-Lloyd Fleck
sion Washington, D.C. April 1987
States have similar views on the impor-
Editor: Juanita Adams
tance of democratization as a key ele-
Labor Attache-Thomas M. Tonkin
ment in a solution to the problems of
Regional Security Officer-Stephen H.
Department of State Publication 7749
Central America.
Jacobs
Background Notes Series This material is
Venezuela is one of the United
Consul, Maracaibo-Michael E.
in the public domain and may be reproduced
States' most important Latin American
Malinowski
without permission; citation of this source
would be appreciated.
trading partners and a major supplier of
The U.S Embassy in Venezuela is
petroleum and petroleum products to the
located at Avenida de Miranda and
For sale by the Superintendent of Docu-
United States.
Avenida Principal de la Floresta,
ments, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402
293-9072
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PAGE
L
41H STURY or Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyrignt (C) 1989 ine unristian Science Publishing Society;
Lne unristian Science monitor
January 12, 1787, nursday
SECTION: THE ELUNUMY; Pg. y
LENGTH: 801 words
HEADLINE: Latin ventors seek New Approaches
BYLINE: Jonn remma, Staff writer of ine unristian Science monitor
VAIELINE: BUSTON
KEYWURD:
stats
HIGHLIGHT:
GLUBAL MARKETS
BUDY:
DEBI 15 a pain - and Latin nations are saying they nave reached their limit
or tolerance.
inat 15 why venezuela plans to suspena principal payments on most of ITS $26
DILLION in foreign bank for three months beginning next week. IT 15 why
many experts on the 0200 crisis say 1989 coulo see major cnanges. And It 15 wny,
despite improving conditions on the part of Danks with loans to poor nations,
presigent-elect Busn nas indicated ne 15 willing to 100K at a new approach.
A major change snouto occur this year, says Javier murcio, a specialist
on Latin American economies at vata Resources inc. or Lexington, mass. ' It
mignt not 02 really close to nappening, Dut 1 tnink there 15 something going on
Denino the scenes.
The people to watch, Desioes mr. Busn, are incoming Secretary or State James
Baker 111, Secretary or the ireasury Nicnolas Brady, ano the new leaders or
venezuela ano mexico, carlos Andres perez ano Larios Salinas 02 Gortari,
respectively.
Mr. perez, the venezuelan president-elect, IS most outspoken on the that
issue. He 15 an economic nationalist, too, naving superviseo the takeover of the
venezuelan 011 industry ouring nis first term as president in the 19/US. perez
tolo the monitor last year that the overnang or 0200 ne and other Latin leaders
nave innerited from their predecessors presents intolerable and irrational'
repayment conditions ano 15 ' ' a very airect threat to our democracies.
iniro-world 0200 15 estimated at $1 32 trillion. Latin nations owe $420
Dillion.
Last week perez paio a VISIT to Mr. Salinas. venezuela and mexico nave their
011 industries in common and thus nave similar interests in seeing nigner 011
prices. perez salo ne ano Salinas agreed to continue talks on the 0200 with
other Latin American neaos or state. Late last week, perez VISITED President
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(C) 1789 The unristian Science Publishing Society, January 12, 1989
JOSE Sarney of Brazil. HE 15 aue to meet Kaul Altonsin of Argentina and other
Latin leagers next month at the time or nis inauguration.
vespite nis 1000ying, perez 15 not confrontational in nis approach. He 0025
not talk about 0200 repuoiation. inat snouto neip nim ano other Latin 1eaders
0221 with creditors, since they are not in a particularly strong financial
position. us Danks have worked naro over the past two years to reduce their 0200
exposure and thus have the upper nano in 0200 negotiations.
william Seloman of the Federal veposit insurance corporation toto the House
Banking Committee last week that regional us Danks have put the LUC
countries) situation Denino them. But kep. Henry B. Gonzalez
W of lexas, the committee's chairman, nas called for the Busn aoministration
to develop a policy quickly, and cnaracterized the 020t situation as ' ' a growing
crisis.
what 15 needeo, say many specialists, 15 a new approacn that liquidates some
or the chronic ourden or 0200 or oeveloping nations. Herez says that It the 0200
proolem 1S not settled soon, the severe economic difficulties or venezueia,
Brazii, and mexico coulo extena to other countries.
Economist murcio says one of the most interesting new approaches was one that
appeared in the wall Street Journal last week. written DY Ruoiger vornouscn and
ranco mooigiiani or the massacnusetts institute or Technology, this 15 a pian
under which oeotors WOULD make payments to Danks in local currency pesos, for
instance).
Banks WOULD then use the money to Duy local enterprises. what these
properties earneo could De converted into dollars - or the properties coulo De
5010 to nonresioents. At any rate, 0200 payments WOULD not leave the country
alrectly.
Although Danks WOULD object to this, It WOULD 02 Detter, the TWO economists
say, than It the oeotors nao to default on some or all or their payments. Ano
after pernaps a decade, the money COULO DE gotten out.
vozens or other oeot-rellet plans nave Deen proposed in the past TEW years.
une way or another, some group WILL pay the freight - most likely, taxpayers or
bank snarenoioers. For most or the 198US, It nas Deen the oeotors. ney are
saying they are in no condition to go on this way, especially IT economic
conditions turn groomy through rising interest rates or a recession.
B1g Latin Nations
what they owe HOW much or ineir
(in DILLIONS or 00112751 Export Earnings go
to payments
Argentina $59.6 42%
BOLIVIA 5./ 44
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(C) 1989 ine unristian Science Publishing Society, January 12, 1989
Brazil 120.1 78
Chile 20.8 L/
COLOMOIA 1/.2 1/
Ecuador 11.0 33
mexico 10/.4 28
peru 19.0 LI
venezuela 35.U "
source: ine world Bank
GRAPHIC: CHILLUSTRATION, no caption, ''Big Latin Nations' 1522 DELOW), SHIRLEY
HURN - STAFF
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1UIH STURY or Level 1 printed in FULL format.
copyright (C) 1988 The Britisn Broadcasting corporation;
Summary of world Broaocasts/ine monitoring Report
vecember 16, 1988, riday
SECTION: Part 4 The Mioole tast ano Latin America; 4101. LAIIN AMERICA AND UTHER
COUNTRIES
PAGE: ME/U336/ 111
LENGTH: 123 words
HEADLINE: venezuelan Presigent-elect's meeting with George Busn
BUDY:
in a speecn given following the official prociamation of nis election as
President, Larios Anores perez 5810 that ne nao nelo a meeting on 13th
vecember with US Presigent-elect George Busn, venezolana 02
tesevisionicaracas reported. Anores perez 5310 that they nao Deen aore to
identity common interests, overcome Oifficulties ano agree on future efforts
for the sake or co-operation' He 20020 1 must state frankly that 1 returned
to venezuela satisfied and contigent with the spirit of understanding
that
1 perceived from the man who WILL assume the US presidency in a tew oays.
perez a0020 that venezuela and Latin America WOULD nave a trieno in George
Busn 'wno WILL talk with a willingness to Decome closer
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11TH STURY or Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright ICI 1988 The limes mirror company;
LOS Angeles Times
vecember 14, 1988, weonesday, Home Edition
SECTION: Part 1; Page 1; Column 3; National wesk
LENGTH: 1465 words
HEADLINE: BUSH RULES uui CONGRESSMEN IN HIS LABINE
BYLINE: By JUSH GEILIN ano DAVID LAUIER, Times Staff writers
VAIELINE: WASHINGTON
BUDY:
Presioent-elect George Busn salo Tuesday that ne would appoint no House
or senate Republicans to top JODS in nis ADmInistration -- a oirective that WILL
mean kep. Kobert K. vornan R-barden Grove), the fiery urange County
conservative who nao Deen seeking a prestigious post, WILL tocus nis energies on
congress.
Busn 15 expected to T111 several more Laoinet posts later this week, with
three departments --- Laoor, Agriculture ano iransportation - " 103020 and ready
to fire," as one senior a102 put It luesday.
At Agriculture, Busn nas ottered the top JOB to U.S. irade Representative
clayton K. reutter, who 1S deciding whetner to take It or return to the private
sector. Lonstance Horner, nead or the rederal Uffice of personnel management,
remains the leading canoldate for laoor secretary, ano unicago Ke gional
iransportation Authority cniet samuel K. Skinner leads the flelo for the
transportation JOD.
reutter 1S particularly attractive to Busn as agriculture secretary Decause,
as the cnief U.S. trade negotiator, ne nas spent much or nis time trying to
convince other nations to reduce or eliminate suosioies for agricultural
products. The suosidy issue 15 expected to continue as one or the major proolems
facing U.S. agriculture policy in the new AdmInistration.
reutter, nowever, nas tolo trienos that ne WOULD like to leave puolic service
for the private sector and nas Deen discussing joining the investment tirm or
vrexel Burnnam Lambert, a tar more Lucrative post than that of Laoinet
secretary.
BY contrast, the 10gjam over oetense secretary appeared no closer to Deing
Droken. ASKED ruesday about the prospects for an announcement about former lexas
sen. Jonn lower, oy all accounts the chief candidate for the JOD, Busn saio only
that "the process 15 STILL going torward."
utner than that comment, Busn remained noncommittal iuesoay on the timing or
future announcements, turning aside questions on the subject when ne spoke WITH
reporters after meetings with carios Anares perez, president-elect or
venezueia, ano Loretta Scott King, W100W or wr. martin Lutner King Jr.
tears vepieting Strength
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(C) 1988 LOS Angeles limes, vecember 14, 1988
Busn to10 vornan and other House Republicans who nao Deen active in nis
campaign that ne WOULD not appoint them to nign-level JODS Decause ne 0025 not
want to depiete the party's strength in congress, a transition spokesman said
luesday.
"Several or the vice president's many trienos in Longress have indicated a
willingness to serve in nis Administration," transition press Secretary Snella
late salo. "However, their appointment WOULD mean the 1055 of strong supporters
on the HILL whose neip the Presioent-elect neeas in the months anead."
Busn's surprise announcement not to put members of Longress in nis Laoinet
won praise from several GUP congressmen, including vornan, who nao oeen reported
as one or the leading congressional contengers for an appointment. The decision,
salo vornan, makes good sense Decause Republicans, already in the minority in
the House, cannot aftoro to risk 10sing any seats. HE 20020 that ne WOULD 02
"proug and nappy" to remain in Longress and work naro for the new president's
legislative agenoa.
says Busn Errea
AC least one congressman, nowever, suggested that Busn nao erreo. "my own
personal feeling was that a former memoer of congress could De very neiptui to a
president in 1000ying with the memoers that they nave serveo with," 5210 Kep.
Guy V. molinari (R-N.Y.), who nao Deen noping for the iransportation vepartment
JOO.
in fact, Busn may nave nao other motives at least partly in mino, a senior
a10e salo. vespite the professed worry about weakening the party in the House,
all out one of the GUP congressmen whose names nave Deen mentioned for Laoinet
STOTS are from "sate" Republican oistricts that coulo Be expected to seno up
Republican repiacements.
what may nave Deen important 15 that all the GUP congressmen are white and,
Dy oetinition, washington insiders. HIS new Dianket oecision provides Busn a
tace-saving way of Dypassing them in tavor or nonoring nis pleage to name
members of minority groups and people from outside washington to the Laoinet,
the a102 acknowledged.
Busn 015CUSSED the subject or Dlack appointees when ne met Tuesday atternoon
with King, one or a series or meetings ne nas Deen naving with black leaders.
"we oon't oisagree on the goals," king tolo reporters after the meeting,
a001ng that sne plans to "00 all 1 can to neip George Busn" tuttill ner late
nusbano's oream or eliminating the "three eviis or racism, poverty ano war."
while sne and Busn talked about naming a DLACK cabinet member, they 010 not
01SCUSS any names, King salo.
une leading DLACK contenoer for a Laoinet post 15 Dr. LOUIS Suilivan,
president of morenouse School or medicine in Atlanta. He 15 Deing actively
pusnea as a possiole secretary of nealth ano numan services.
in adoltion to vornan ano moiinari, memoers or congress who nao Deen
considered possiole Laoinet selections included keps. Jonn Paul Hammerscnmint or
Arkansas, widely touteo as a candidate for secretary or the new vepartment of
veteran Attairs; Lynn martin or Illinois, Bill braoison of Unio, 10m Kidge or
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PAGE
8
(C) 1988 LOS Angeles Times, vecember 14, 1988
pennsylvania ano t. inomas Loleman or Missouri.
vornan, 55, stressed that Busn's action snouto not De seen as a siap in the
face to Republican conservatives, who worked naro for nis election ano expect to
DE represented in the new ADmInistration.
'Point man for the President'
"AS for me, 1 WILL concentrate on Deing a point man for the President in
Longress, on issues like arms control, narcotics policies, AIDS ano the
deficit."
vornan also 5210 that ne expects to rise in the ranks. He expressed
contidence that ne WILL De appointed to a seat on the powertul House Armeo
Services Committee next month, ano recently was elected chairman or the
intiuential Republican Study conterence, a policy arm or House conservatives.
inese new leadership responsioilities suggest that vornan mignt 02 evolving
into less or an 102010gical fireorano, a role ne previously nas played with
gusto. However, in a uesday interview, ne serveo warning that nis creaentials
as one of congress' most outspoken conservatives are STILL intact.
ASKEO about the AIDS policies ne WOULD promote as chairman or the Republican
Study conterence, for example, vornan 5810: "JUST like we have to 00 something
on the demano 5102 of narcotics, we nave to 00 something on the demano 5102 of
AIDS. we nave to stop gioritying nomosexuality as a lite style. unsanitary,
airty sex ano unsanitary, oirty needies nave created the greatest nealth crisis
or our time."
vornan was one of the first conservatives to endorse Busn's presidential
candidacy, campaigning for nim as early as 1985. Eventually, vornan stumped for
Busn in 34 states.
"inere were tew people who worked as naro for Busn as BOD 010," salo a
transition source. "Ano in this Dusiness, that's not forgotten. He was very
loyal to the vice president."
Atter the election, wornan made no secret or nis amoitions. unlike most
aspirants for presidential appointments, ne spoke frankly to the news meoia.
" ine only joo 1 want 15 orug czar," ne salo in one interview, referring to
the new post of national orug policy airector created by congress. "my main snot
1S the man (Busn) nimselt. I'm so much closer to nim than 1 ever got to keagan."
At one point, vornan even promoteo nis candidacy over another rumored --
aitnough unlikely ------------------------- contenaer for arug czar, LOS Angeles POLICE unier varyl t.
bates. The cnief, ne salo, "15 a trieno, a quality person, Dut 1 don't see It as
a law enforcement JOO."
yet even Detore Busn made nis oecision to exclude Republican memoers of
congress from nign-level appointments, vornan sa10 ne concluded that Deing orug
czar mignt not DE such a good 10ea. He notea that nis wite, Sallie, nao opposeo
the move, calling the post "a magnificent opportunity to tail miseraoly."
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PAGE
4
(C) 1988 LOS Angeles limes, December 14, 1988
"l've never Deen comfortable with the word 'czar,' " Dornan a0020. "It's
Derived from the word ' Laesar,' and the derivations are 'czar,' 'Kaiser' and
'snan.' Laesar was staoded DY a coupie of oozen senators. The kaiser ano uzar
Nicholas 010n't tare too well, and the snan was KICKEO around from country to
country."
NOW that a presidential appointment nas Deen ruleo out, Dornan said ne asked
Busn for nis support in gaining a seat on the House Armeo Services committee.
During a monday night conversation with Busn, ne said, ne asked the
Presioent-elect to put in a good word for nim with kep. Kobert H. Micnel
(R-111.1, the House minority leader. Republicans are expected to 02 102 next
month which new members WILL De appointed to the committee.
"HE (Busn) salo ne WOULD absolutely neip.
HE salo, ' I want you to DE
one or my point speakers,' " vornan sa10.
GRAPHIC: Photo, LNOICES -- George Busn as ne conterred with Loretta Scott King
about the appointment or DLACKS to federal posts. un another front, Bush
to appoint kep. Robert vornan to a J00 in order to keep the fiery
conservative In congress. BERNIE BUSTON / LOS Angeles Times
SUBJECT: PULITICAL APPOINTMENTS; BUSH, GEORGE; CONGRESS 10.5.1; ACQUIRED IMMUNE
DEFICIENCY SYNDRUME; DURNAN, ROBERT K; UNITED STATES -- GUVERNMENT OFFICIALS
LEXIS® R NEXIS
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HVPF
A
Carlos Andres PEREZ
VENEZUELA
(Phonetic: PEHrehs)
President (since February 1989)
Addressed as: Mr. President
A well-known international figure, Carlos
Andres Perez is serving his second term as
President (the first was during 1974-79). An ardent
nationalist and Third World advocate, he is a
strong spokesman for Latin American interests.
Trying to get his administration off to a fast start,
Perez announced a program of economic reforms
and austerity measures a few months after taking
office. The economic package touched off violent
riots and labor strife, however, engendering
substantial public criticism of his program. He has
defended his measures as necessary and is sticking
with them despite mounting political pressure.
Perez has instituted three economic relief programs: unemployment insurance, subsidies to
low-income families of schoolchildren, and a major public works package.
Perez continues to pursue a leadership role abroad. His publicized agenda includes
reviving OPEC, mediating solutions to Central American crises, and promoting a deal for
repayment of Latin American foreign debts. Less than a week after his election, he traveled
to the Middle East to promote an OPEC summit and to the United States to meet with then
President-elect Bush. He was involved in multilateral efforts to bring democracy to Panama,
calling on the Organization of American States to protest the actions of military strongman
Manuel Noriega, but has publicly condemned the US action in Panama.
Perez has expressed concern about economic dominance by industrialized nations, and
during his first presidency he worked to use Venezuela's oil reserves to increase his country's
independence. To that end, he nationalized the oil industry. He has said that the main threat
to democracy is poverty, which he has pledged to eliminate by a more equitable distribution
of the oil income.
Perez was born on 27 October 1922, the same year that Venezuela's oil boom began.
He identifies strongly with his country and perceives a parallel between what he sees as its
oil-ordained destiny and his own future. He has been widely described in press articles as a
populist who sees himself as the chief defender of the hopes of the Venezuelan people.
From an early age Perez has lived for politics. In 1941, while studying for a degree at
the Central University of Venezuela, he helped found the Democratic Action Party (AD),
along with fellow political activist Romulo Betancourt. Four years later, Perez ended his
studies-a year short of earning a law degree-when Betancourt became President in a
coup. Perez served as Betancourt's private secretary and later as secretary of the Council of
Ministers. He was also an AD member of Congress. In 1948 the military overthrew
Betancourt's democratically elected successor; it remained in power for a decade. During
this period, Perez lived in exile in Cuba and Costa Rica. On his return to Venezuela he
returned to Congress. In the early 1960s he was also director general in the Interior
Ministry and later Minister. He was AD secretary general from 1963 until his election as
President in 1974.
Married to the former Blanca Rodriguez, Perez has six children.
7 February 1990
background
647-3338
Eliz Schuler
notes
Venezuela
United States Department of State
April 1987
Bureau of Public Affairs
Infant mortality rate-27.3/1,000. Life
Economy
expectancy-70 yrs. Work force (about 6
million): Agriculture-15%. Industry and
Real GDP (1985): $50 billion. Real annual
Caribbeen Sea
Atlantic
commerce-35%. Services-26%. Other-24%.
growth rate (1984-85): -0.4%. Real per
Ocean
capita income: $2,629. Avg. inflation rate
Caracas
(1985): 11.4%.
Government
Natural resources: Petroleum, natural
VENEZUELA
GUYANA
Type: Federal republic. Independence:
gas, coal, iron ore, gold, other minerals,
July 5, 1821. Constitution: January 23, 1961.
hydroelectric power, bauxite.
COLOMBIA
Branches: Executive-president (head of
Agriculture (7.4% of GDP): Products-
government and chief of state); 24-member
rice, coffee, corn, sugar, bananas, and dairy,
Council of Ministers (Cabinet). Legislative-
meat, and poultry products. Land-4%.
BRAZIL
bicameral Congress (200-member Chamber of
Industry (19% of GDP): Types-
Deputies, 47-member Senate). Judicial-
petrochemicals, oil refining, iron and steel,
18-member Supreme Court.
paper products, aluminum, textiles, transport
Subdivisions: 20 states, 2 federal ter-
equipment, consumer products.
ritories, 1 federal district, and a federal
Trade (1985): Exports-$14.2 billion:
Official Name:
dependence (72 islands).
petroleum ($12.8 billion), iron ore, coffee,
Republic of Venezuela
Political parties: Democratic Action
steel, aluminum, cocoa. Major markets-US,
(Accion Democratica-AD), Social Christian
Canada, Italy, Japan, Spain, FRG.
(Comite Organizador Politico pro Elecciones
Imports-$7.3 billion: machinery and
Independientes-COPEI). Other parties-
transport equipment, manufactured goods,
PROFILE
minor, which gained representation to the
chemicals, foodstuffs. Major suppliers-US,
National Congress Dec. 1983: Movement to
Japan, Canada, FRG, France, Italy, Brazil.
Socialism (Movimiento al Socialismo-MAS);
Official exchange rate: Preferential-
Geography
People's Electoral Movement (Movimiento
14.5 bolivares US$1. In February 1983,
Area: 912,050 sq. km. (352,143 sq. mi.); about
Electoral del Pueblo-MEP); Republican
Venezuela adopted a multitiered exchange
Democratic Union (Union Republicana
rate system. In December 1986, the govern-
the size of Texas and Oklahoma combined.
Democratica-URD); New Alternative (Nueva
ment decreed an official exchange rate of 14.5
Cities: Capital-Caracas (metropolitan area
pop. est. 4.0 million). Terrain: Varied.
Alternativa-NA); Movement of the Revolu-
per US$1 for specified products and
Climate: Varies from tropical to temperate,
tionary Left (Movimiento de Izquierda
transactions.
Revolucionaria-MIR); Movement of National
Fiscal year: Calendar year.
depending on elevation.
Integrity (Movimiento de Integridad
Nacional-MIN); National Opinion (Opinion
Membership in International
People
Nacional-OPINA); and Venezuelan Com-
Organizations
Nationality: Noun and adjective-
munist Party (Partido Communista de
Venezuelan(s). Population (1986): 17,791,000.
Venezuela-PCV). Suffrage: Universal and
UN and some of its specialized and related
Annual growth rate: 2.7%. Ethnic groups:
compulsory over 18.
agencies, including membership in the Secur-
Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Arab, German,
Central government budget (1985): $13.1
ity Council (1986-87); Organization of
Amerindian. African. Religions: Roman
billion.
American States (OAS); International Coffee
Catholic 96%, Protestant 2%. Languages:
Flag: Three horizontal bands-yellow,
Agreement; Latin American Integration
blue, and red, with a crest in a corner of the
Association (ALADI); Andean Pact; Rio Pact;
Spanish (official), Indian dialects spoken by
yellow band and a semicircle of seven stars in
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Coun-
some of the 200,000 Amerindians in the
the middle of the blue band. The colors come
tries (OPEC); Latin American Energy
remote interior. Education: Years
from the banner flown by Simon Bolivar; the
Organization (OLADE); Latin American State
compulsory-9. Literacy-88.4%. Health:
stars represent the seven provinces.
Reciprocal Petroleum Assistance (ARPEL);
Latin American Economic System (SELA);
Andres Bello Agreement.
68
CARIBBEAN SEA
64
60
12
GRENADA
Punto
NETHERLANDS
12
Riohacha
Fijo
ANTILLES
Majcao
Paraguaipoa
Coro
o
Capatárida
La Asuncion
TRINIDAD AND
TOBAGO
Puerto
Cabello
La Guaira
0
Maracaibo
San Felipe
Cumana
Carupano
CARACAS
PORT-OF-SPAIN
Machiques
Barquisimeto
Puente
Lake
Torres
Valencia
Maracay
Los Teques
ATLANTIC
Pan
Barcelona
Maracaibo
High
San Juan
America
Maturin
OCEAN
Agua
San
de los Morros
Encontrados
Viva
Carlos
Trujillo
an
Tucupita
2:
American
Guanare
Tigre
Merida
Barinas
Ciudad
Curiano
Guayana
San José
Orinoco
de Amacur
Cucuta
San Cristóbal
Ciudad
And
San
Mapire
Bolívar
Fernando
Caicara
Rio
Ciudad
Piar
El
Bucaramanga
Rio Caura
Manteco
Tumeremo
Puerto
La Escalera
GUYANA
Meta
Carreño
Rio
Puerto Ayacucho
Caron
Uriman
COLOMBIA
Samariapo
Santa Elena
BRAZIL
Rio Orinoco
VENEZUELA
Esmeralda
Casiquiare
International boundary
National capital
Boca
Brazo
Mavaca
Railroad
Road
San Carlos
+
de Rio Negro
International airport
o
50
100
150
Miles
BRAZIL
0 50 100 150 Kilometers
Name Rio
BOUNDARY REPRESENTATION
72
68
NOT NECESSARIL AUTHORITATIVE 64
60
GEOGRAPHY
The plains or llanos, extending
PEOPLE
from the mountains south and east to
Venezuela spans the major sea and air
the Orinoco River; and
Most Venezuelans are of European,
routes linking the northern and southern
The Guyana Highlands, a vast
Amerindian, and/or African descent. The
parts of the Western Hemisphere. Its
area of high plateaus and rolling plains
most recent influx of European immigra-
coastline is 2,816 kilometers (1,750 mi.)
south and east of the Orinoco. Angel
tion dates to the early 1950s, when large
on the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic
Falls, the world's highest waterfall, is in
numbers of Spanish, Italian, and Por-
Ocean. Venezuela also claims the ter-
this area.
tuguese immigrants arrived. The 1981
ritory east of the present boundary to
the Essequibo River, which was
Although the entire country lies in
census showed that 94% of the people
the torrid zone, the temperature varies
are native born; of the foreign born,
allocated to Guyana by the Arbitral
Award of 1899.
with the altitude. The lowland coastal
most came from Spain, Italy, Portugal,
Venezuela has four distinct
area is hot and humid, as are the inland
Africa, and Colombia. As of 1986, about
geographic regions:
river valleys. The highlands generally
17,000 U.S. citizens were living in
are warm during the day and cool at
Venezuela. Unlike many of its neighbors,
The Andes Mountains and adja-
night. For most of the country, the rainy
Venezuela does not have a large Amerin-
cent hill country in the northwest;
season is from May through November;
dian population.
The coastal zone north of the
Venezuela is one of the Western
the rest of the year is dry. Caracas is
mountains bordering Lake Maracaibo
located in a valley at 900 meters (3,000
Hemisphere's least densely populated
and the Caribbean Sea, including the
ft.) and averages 23 °C (74 °F) year
countries. Most of the population is con-
Orinoco Delta;
round.
centrated in the Andes and along the
coast. Although nearly half of the land
area lies south and east of the Orinoco
immigrants, many of them undocu-
President Caldera was succeeded by
River, that area contains only 4% of the
mented, from other Latin American and
AD's Carlos Andres Perez, a veteran
population.
Caribbean countries. Industrial wages,
party politician and former Betancourt
The annual population increase since
benefits, and working conditions remain
interior minister, who won by a landslide
1950 has been about 3.4%. Although it
relatively high, an achievement of
in a field of a dozen candidates. The
has declined in recent years to 2.7%, it is
Venezuela's large, disciplined multiparty
still one of the world's highest. The
Perez administration initiated a huge
labor movement.
population is rapidly changing from rural
government program of industrial
expansion and consolidated state owner-
to urban. In 1936, only 35% of the
population lived in cities and towns of
HISTORY
ship of extractive industries, such as
more than 1,000 inhabitants; today about
petroleum. With this accomplishment,
Venezuela became a Third World leader.
80% do. One out of every five Venezue-
Venezuela was discovered by Columbus
lans lives in Caracas.
in 1498 on his third voyage. It was one
President Luis Herrera Campins of
of the first colonies in the New World to
the COPEI succeeded Perez in a hotly
contested race in December 1978. Her-
Social and Economic Issues
revolt against Spain (1810), but inde-
pendence was not achieved until 1821
rera ran on a platform of improved
Venezuela's wealth is distributed
social services and more efficient
under the leadership of Simon Bolivar,
unevenly, and a significant percentage of
Venezuela's native son and continental
government, winning by about 200,000
the population has inadequate nutrition,
hero. Venezuela, with what are now
votes out of 5 million. AD, however,
housing, clothing, and education. These
Colombia, Panama, and Ecuador, was
retained control of the Congress. The
problems are complicated by the tremen-
country's mounting economic ills, follow-
part of the Republic of Gran Colombia
dous pressures created by rapid popula-
ing in the wake of a world recession,
until 1830, when it separated and
tion growth. Venezuela doubles its
posed the greatest problem to the Her-
became a sovereign state.
population about every 20 years; 40%
rera government. In February 1982,
Venezuela's 19th century history is
are under 15 years of age, and 70% are
Herrera instituted currency control
characterized by frequent periods of
under 30.
measures which, in effect, devalued the
political instability, dictatorial rule, and
The literacy rate among Venezuelans
bolivar. Herrera also led his nation in the
revolutionary turbulence. The 20th cen-
15 years of age and older was 88.4% in
search for peace in Central America;
tury has been marked by long periods of
1985. The government encourages those
Venezuela, in conjunction with Colombia,
authoritarianism-dictatorships of Gen.
who can read and write to assist those
Mexico, and Panama, formed the "Con-
Juan Vicente Gomez (1908-35) and Gen.
who cannot by distributing training
tadora Group," whose efforts are aimed
Marcos Perez Jimenez (1950-58)-as
materials-books and tapes-throughout
well as by a democratic interlude,
at avoiding armed conflict in the region.
the country.
President Jaime Lusinchi of AD won
between 1936 and 1948. Since the over-
The first 9 years of primary educa-
the 1983 presidential election with the
throw of Perez Jimenez on January 23,
tion are compulsory. Of children aged
largest majority in Venezuela's 27 years
1958, democratic elections have been
13-18, 45.9% are enrolled in day or
of democratic government. The AD
held in 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978,
special evening classes. In addition,
and 1983.
Party retained control of the Congress
adults are urged to participate in special
with increased majorities in both houses.
Romulo Betancourt (1959-64), of the
night classes conducted at all educational
Confronted with falling revenues due to
Democratic Action Party (AD), became
levels.
the declining price of petroleum, the
the first popularly elected president in
Venezuela has 13 public universities,
Lusinchi administration refinanced $22.2
Venezuelan history to complete his term
7 private universities, and 11 private
billion of Venezuela's $25.5 billion (end
in office. His administration, with the
polytechnic or university institutes.
of 1985) external public debt. As a
cooperation of the Democratic Republic
Total enrollment of university-level
Union (URD) and the country's second
member of the Contadora Group, the
students in 1985 was 388,886, a 75%
Lusinchi government maintains the com-
increase over 1975.
largest party, the Social Christian Party
mitment to peace and democratization in
(COPEI), embarked upon a path of
Until recently, Venezuela's major
Central America.
development and democracy. President
employment problem was a shortage of
Betancourt, surviving extremist threats
skilled workers and managers to operate
from rightist military and civilians and
GOVERNMENT
what had been a burgeoning and increas-
from leftist subversives supported by the
ingly technological economy. To fill the
Castro regime of Cuba, modernized the
The constitution, Venezuela's 26th since
gap, Venezuela recruited many skilled
government and produced numerous
foreign technicians, expanded its
independence, guarantees freedom of
social reforms.
technical education facilities, and sent
religion, speech, and assembly and
His AD successor, Raul Leoni
Venezuelans abroad for training. With
assigns substantial economic develop-
(1964-69), consolidated and continued
the economic decline of the past few
ment responsibility to the federal
many of these reforms. However, the
government.
years, rising unemployment has dis-
AD-COPEI coalition split, and further
placed the lack of technically qualified
National elections are held every 5
internal AD divisions led to the narrow
personnel-though still a significant
years in which the president, members
victory of Rafael Caldera (1969-74), a
factor-as the primary manpower
of Congress, and the state legislatures
COPEI university professor and interna-
are elected. The president can be elected
concern.
tional labor expert. His March 1969
While an official survey in December
to only one term and may not be
inauguration marked the country's first
1982 put unemployment at only 7%, by
reelected until 10 years after the end of
1985 the official estimate was 12.1%.
peaceful transfer of power to a president
that term. Ex-presidents are life
Some private sector and labor organiza-
from another political party. Among the
members of the Senate. Voting is man-
tions put the figure as high as 20%.
initiatives of the Caldera government
datory for all Venezuelan citizens who
was Venezuela's entrance into the
Despite the recent contraction of its
are at least 18 years old and who are not
Andean Pact.
convicts or members of the armed
economy, Venezuela remains a goal for
Aerial view of Caracas.
forces. Generally, more than 80% of
In domestic affairs, the Venezuelan
Principal Government Officials
those registered vote. Each political
Government's goals are to:
party has its own ballot with a distinc-
President-Jaime Lusinchi
tive color and symbol. Elections are
Preserve and protect free and
democratic institutions and to maintain
Ministers
supervised by an independent, federally
appointed electoral commission.
public order;
Interior-Jose Angel Ciliberto
The executive, legislative, and
Strengthen and modernize the
Foreign Relations-Simon Alberto
judicial branches are separate. The presi-
armed forces;
Consalvi
Eliminate the socioeconomic con-
Finance-Manuel Azpurua Arreaza
dent has extensive powers, including the
ditions which foster crime and to
Defense-Maj. Gen. Jose Rafael Cardozo
power to appoint the Council of
upgrade law enforcement resources;
Grimaldi
Ministers (cabinet) and state and ter-
ritorial governors by decree, without
Enforce legal sanctions in cases of
Development-Gustavo Mirabal
congressional confirmation. State gover-
public malfeasance;
Bustillos
nors and other officials are considered
Refinance the external public debt
Education-Luis Manuel Carbonell
without generating undesirable effects
Health and Social Welfare-Otto Her-
part of the national government, though
their powers are limited by their states'
on the living standards;
nandez Peretti
Decrease the role of the public sec-
Agriculture and Livestock-Felipe
constitutions and elected legislatures.
Legislative responsibility is vested in
tor in the national economy and to
Gomez Alvarez
impose strict controls on public
Labor-Simon Antoni Pavan
the bicameral Congress, whose principal
powers are the capacity to approve,
borrowing;
Transport and Communications-Juan
alter, or reject the budget and to censure
Reorient the national industrial
Pedro Del Moral
acts of the executive branch.
base to production of essential goods to
Justice-Jose Manzo Gonzalez
meet basic needs, generate jobs, fight
Energy and Mines-Arturo Hernandez
Judicial power is exercised by the
Grisanti
Supreme Court of Justice and lower
inflation, and save foreign exchange; and
Improve the physical infrastruc-
Environment and Natural Resources-
courts. The nine members and nine alter-
nate judges of the Supreme Court are
ture necessary to an expanded role for
Guillermo Colmenares Finol
elected by Congress for 9-year terms.
agriculture.
Urban Development-Cesar Quintana
Romero
Youth-Virginia Olivo De Celli
Minister to the Presidency-Carmelo
Lauria Lesseur
4
Ministers of State
Coordination and Planning-Leopoldo
Carnevali
Travel Notes
President of the Venezuelan Investment
Fund-Hector Hurtado
Customs: US citizens need a tourist card or
tional airline has daily flights to several US
Culture-Paulina Gamus
visa, a US passport, and a travel ticket valid
cities. Caracas' Maiquetia Airport has become
Science and Technology-Tulio Arends
for onward passage. Tourist cards may be
an important international travel center in
obtained from airlines or travel agencies,
President of the Venezuelan Corporation
the Caribbean. An underground metro system
visas from the Venezuelan Embassy or a con-
of Guayana-Leopoldo Sucre
serving Caracas is under construction with 14
sulate. Business visitors who do not enter
Figarella
stations in operation. Completion of the
Venezuela on a tourist card or tourist visa
system is scheduled for 1987.
Basic Production and Coordination of
must obtain a solvencia (tax release) before
State Enterprises-Vacant
leaving Venezuela. For information, call
Tourist attractions: Caracas-colonial
Governor of the Federal District-
Caracas 35-35-52.
Caracas, botanical gardens, many museums,
Miguel Angel Contreras Laguado
tours. Outlying areas-colonial Tovar, a Ger-
Climate and clothing: Springweight clothing
man settlement 48 kilometers (30 mi.) from
Ambassador to the United Nations-
is appropriate in Caracas, which has an
Caracas; beautiful cataracts at Canaima
Andres Aguilar
altitude of a little over 914 m. (3,000 ft.) and
include Angel Falls, the world's highest;
Ambassador to the OAS-Edilberto
an average temperature of 23 °C (74 °F). The
breathtaking Andean scenery at Merida.
rainy season is from May to November.
Moreno Pena
Elsewhere, temperatures vary with altitude,
There are two world-class hotels in Caracas
Ambassador to the United States-
from a lowland average of 27 °C (80 °F) or
with a total of 1,505 rooms. Several other
Valentin Hernandez
more to below freezing at 4,500 m. (15,000
hotels are frequently used by international
ft.) or higher.
travelers.
Venezuela maintains an embassy in
the United States at 2445 Massachusetts
Health: Medical services are good for most
Local holidays: Businesses and the US
Ave. NW., Washington, D.C. 20008 (tel.
purposes. Essential medicines are available
Embassy may be closed on the following
202-797-3800). Consulates general are
locally. Tapwater should be boiled and
holidays:
in Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Houston,
vegetables carefully prepared. No immuniza-
New Year's Day
Jan. 1
Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New
tions are required for travelers arriving from
Carnival
the United States.
Monday and Tuesday before
York, Philadelphia, Portland, and San
Ash Wednesday
Francisco. Visas are issued only by
Telecommunications: Long-distance
Holy Week
Thursday and Good Friday
consulates.
telephone and telegraph sevices are available.
Declaration of Independence
April 19
Direct-dial service is available to the United
Labor Day
May 1
States and more than 60 other countries.
Independence Day
July 5
Venezuela is one standard time zone ahead of
Bolivar's Birthday
July 24
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
eastern standard time. Venezuela does not
Day of the Public Functionary
September 24
observe daylight saving time.
Columbus Day
October 12
President Carlos Andres Perez used the
Christmas Day
December 25
country's vast new petroleum revenues
Transportation: Principal Venezuelan cities
to launch an ambitious domestic eco-
in the interior are connected by air, highway,
and rail with Caracas. Venezuela's interna-
nomic expansion program in metallur-
gical, agricultural, petrochemical, and
other fields and placed more than
$5 billion abroad in short-term invest-
The enthusiastic voter turnout in the
ments and development loans and other
important member of the Latin Ameri-
1983 presidential elections and lively
such assistance for developing countries.
can Energy Organization (OLADE).
ongoing debate among the political par-
In 1985, oil accounted for about 90%
President Herrera Campins of
ties are testimony to the strength of
COPEI took office in March 1979 with a
of Venezuela's total merchandise exports
democractic institutions in South
Congress in which the opposition AD
income, 61% of the government's
America's oldest democracy. Despite
party had a plurality. Herrera Campins'
revenues, and some 22% of the gross
mounting economic and social problems,
administration was faced with rising
domestic product (GDP). The govern-
Venezuelans have continued to seek
political and social tensions during its
ment nationalized the industry on
political change through democratic
tenure, primarily because of a
January 1, 1976. Since then, employ-
processes, setting an example for other
national economic downturn, declining
ment has doubled, income has quad-
nations of the region.
rupled, and production of crude oil has
petroleum prices, overseas capital flight,
declined.
and rising unemployment. Public discon-
tent resulted in a sweeping victory by
Crude oil and condensate production
ECONOMY
the opposition party candidate Jaime
peaked in 1970 at 3.7 million barrels per
day (b/d). Production was 1.7 million b/d
Lusinchi in December 1983, the largest
electoral landslide since that of Romulo
Venezuela is a major producer and
in 1985. The initial decline was due to
Gallegos in 1948.
exporter of oil. A founding member of
government conservation policies and
the Organization of Petroleum Export-
low investment in exploration and
Although the Lusinchi administra-
ing Countries (OPEC), it plays a key role
development. In recent years, however,
tion has vigorously attacked the nation's
in the world oil market. Mexico and
it has been attributable to the weak
social and economic problems, the
continuing deterioration of the world
Venezuela have begun granting loans to
world oil market. Venezuela has seven
Central American and Caribbean Basin
petroleum market and the nation's
on-line refineries. These refineries give
approximately $39 billion debt has
nations on the basis of oil purchased
the country a capability of exporting
from both countries. Venezuela is also an
limited the government's options.
about one-third of its production as
refined products, a position unique
among OPEC members. In 1985,
Venezuela exported about 51% of its
production to the United States.
Venezuela produced 14.9 million
metric tons (MT) of iron ore in 1985.
Exports were 9 million MT; about 2.1
million MT went to the United States.
As of December 1985, iron ore reserves
were estimated at 2.1 billion MT.
Also in 1985, Venezuela's installed
steel production capacity was 4.8 million
MT. Production was 3 million MT of
ingots and 2.4 million MT of products.
Aluminum production was 396,000 MT
of primary ingots. Installed aluminum
capacity is 400,000.
Agriculture and Industry
Agriculture accounted for 7.4% of GDP
in 1985 (compared to 6.9% in 1984 and
6.8% in 1983) and employed about 15%
of the labor force. Agricultural produc-
tion in 1985 experienced a sharp upturn,
with a total of 1.83 million hectares
devoted to crops as compared to 1.59
million in both 1984 and 1983. Following
the currency devaluation in February
1983, the Venezuelan Government ini-
tiated import controls, restricted
agricultural imports to bulk commodities
for processing, and prohibited most proc-
essed and luxury food items. The United
States continues to be the main supplier
Parque del Este is a popular park for early morning jogs amid hundreds of tropical birds.
of agricultural products, despite
Venezuela's policy of diversifying
Venezuela is currently self-sufficient
sources and seeking trade integration
stagnation apparent since 1978. Per
between Latin American countries. Dur-
in rice, corn, tropical fruits, vegetables,
capita GNP, also on the decline, was
ing 1985, U.S. food and agricultural
roots, poultry, and pork. Self-sufficiency
about $2,600. Central government
in sorghum, sugar, and milk could be
products sales were $650 million
income in 1985 was $14.4 billion, while
achieved in the short or medium term.
(f.o.b.)-accounting for more than 50%
spending was only $13.1 billion,
For the foreseeable future, Venezuela
of total agricultural imports-compared
resulting in a budget surplus of $1.3
will continue importing oilseeds, protein
billion.
to $775 and $665 million in 1984 and
meals, and vegetable oils. Coffee and
1983, respectively. Preliminary 1986
estimates call for U.S. agricultural sales
cocoa are the traditional export crops,
with tropical fruits offering new export
Investment, Currency, and Trade
to decline by about 10%, since the
opportunities.
Venezuelan Government has signaled
About 46% of gross fixed investment
Manufacturing grew 3% in 1985 and
that it will continue substituting imports
came from the private sector in 1984,
accounted for 19% of GDP and, like
by sustaining increases in domestic
and 54% from the government. Public
agricultural growth, reflected increased
production.
and private investment dropped to 15%
import substitution. Triggered by cur-
Venezuela's agricultural policy was
of GDP in 1984 from about 42% in 1978.
rency exchange incentives, export of
substantially modified by the Lusinchi
U.S. direct investment in Venezuela
some manufactured items has been
administration, which set out to convert
was $1.7 billion at the end of 1984 or
steadily increasing.
agriculture into an important sector of
6.1% of the total U.S. investment in
Venezuela is one of the top four
the economy. The main measures taken
Latin America. Venezuela ranks fifth
hydroelectric power producers in Latin
to spur production have been increased
after Brazil, Mexico, Panama, and
America. The Guri Dam on the Caroni
producer prices, fertilizer subsidy,
Argentina in the amount of U.S. invest-
River in eastern Venezuela, with an
increased crop and livestock production
ment. The United States accounts for
installed capacity of 525,000 kilowatts of
credit at preferential interest rate, long-
the majority of foreign investment in
electricity in late 1968, was expanded to
term loans to the private sector to
Venezuela; in 1985, 55% of new invest-
14.5 million kilowatts by 1982.
ment came from the United States.
expand livestock and crop areas, govern-
ment financed large-scale irrigation, and
External public debt in December
drainage and other infrastructure
GNP and Budget
1985 amounted to $25.5 billion; foreign
projects.
exchange reserves totaled $13.8 billion.
In 1985, GNP totaled about $50 billion.
The consumer price index rose 11.4% on
GNP decreased slightly in real terms in
average in 1985. In 1985, about 48% of
1985, continuing the pattern of near-
Venezuela's exports went to the United
States, and 47% of its imports came
from the United States.
6
Of the major services, only the
The right of all peoples to peace
telephone, telegraph, and water supply
and security;
Further Information
are wholly government owned. The
Support for the elimination of
government also owns a steel mill, the
colonialism; and
iron ore and the petrochemical indus-
These titles are provided as a general indica-
A call for significantly higher
tries, most of the aluminum industries,
tion of material published on this country.
export prices for developing countries'
The Department of State does not endorse
one of the two domestic airlines, the
primary products.
unofficial publications.
international airline, and a chain of
hotels.
Relations with Guyana are com-
Betancourt, Romulo. Venezuela: Oil and
Venezuela is a member of the
plicated by Venezuela's claim to the area
Politics. Boston: Houghton-Mifflin Co.,
1979.
Andean Pact and of the Latin American
up to the Essequibo River, more than
Integration Association (ALADI), which
half the present size of Guyana. The
Bond, Robert D., ed. Contemporary
Venezuela and Its Role in International
replaced the Latin American Free Trade
dispute was under discussion by a
Affairs. New York: New York Univer-
Association in 1980. Joint Venezuelan
Guyana-Venezuela mixed commission
sity Press, 1977.
Government-foreign company
established by a 1966 Geneva agree-
"Venezuela: Where Democracy
investments are handled on a case-by-
ment. In June 1970, both countries
Lives." Wilson Quarterly, Autumn 1984.
case basis and are affected by Andean
agreed to a 12-year moratorium on the
de Madariaga, Salvador. Bolivar. Coral
Pact guidelines.
issue. Following the expiration of the
Gables: University of Miami Press, 1952.
Geneva agreement in 1982, the dispute
Lombardi, John V. Venezuela: The Search for
was, with the concurrence of both par-
Order, The Dream of Progress. Oxford
ties, referred to the UN Secretary
University Press, 1982.
DEFENSE
Martz, John D. Accion Democratica: Evolu-
General for a determination of suitable
tion of a Modern Political Party in
The Venezuelan Armed Forces total
means for settlement.
Venezuela. Princeton: Princeton Univer-
some 58,000 personnel in four service
Since 1970, Venezuela and Colombia
sity Press, 1966.
branches-army, navy (including the
have held sporadic talks about the
Moron, Guillermo. A History of Venezuela.
marine corps), and air force-and the
maritime border in the Gulf of Vene-
New York: Roy, 1963.
Armed Forces of Cooperation (Fuerzas
zuela. Despite the boundary dispute and
Petras, Morley Smith. The Nationalization of
Armadas de Cooperacion-FAC), com-
the negative effects that the de facto
Venezuelan Oil. New York: Praeger,
1977.
monly known as the National Guard, the
devaluation of the bolivar had on the
primary mission of which is enforcing
Colombian economy, relations between
Tugwell, Franklin. The Politics of Oil in
Venezuela. Stanford: Stanford Univer-
internal security. By the 1970s, the
the two countries are good and seem to
sity Press, 1975.
armed forces had developed into one of
be improving, especially in intergovern-
the most modern and professional
mental cooperation in controlling nar-
Periodicals
among middle-sized Latin American
cotics trafficking and guerrilla activities
countries. This advance is attributable to
along their common border.
"Business Venezuela." English-language
many factors, the most important of
Under the Perez administration, it
magazine. American Chamber of
which is the vast petroleum revenues
was widely reported that Venezuela pro-
Commerce.
available to the government. Also by the
vided materiel support and advice to the
"Venezuela Up-to-Date," a free quarterly
1970s, the military officer had attained a
Frente Sandinista de Liberacion (FSLN)
publication, is available from the
Embassy of Venezuela, 2445
generally respected position in society as
during their struggle to oust Nicaraguan
Massachusetts Ave. NW., Washington,
a well-paid professional and supporter of
President Anastasio Somoza Bebayle.
DC 20008.
the democratic process. Since 1959, the
Although Herrera Campins' administra-
armed forces have come to reject a
tion led Andean Pact efforts for a
Available from the Superintendent of
direct role in national politics. In gen-
peaceful transition of government in
Documents, US Government Printing Office,
Washington, DC 20402:
eral, civil-military relations in Venezuela
Nicaragua, it became increasingly disen-
are very good, although the military is
chanted with mounting political repres-
American University. Area Handbook for
beginning to feel the impact of reduced
sion under the Sandinistas. Venezuela
Venezuela. 1977.
joined with Colombia, Mexico, and
U.S. Department of State. Venezuela Post
budgets.
Panama to seek a regional solution to
Report. August 1984.
Central America's problems through the
For information on economic trends, commer-
FOREIGN RELATIONS
Contadora process. The Lusinchi govern-
cial development, production, trade regula-
ment has continued this commitment to
tions, and tariff rates, contact the Interna-
tional Trade Administration, US Department
The Venezuelan Government tradi-
Contadora, playing an active role in the
of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230.
tionally has stated that its international
search for democracy and stability in
conduct will be governed by the follow-
Central America.
ing principles:
change within the framework of a free
Respect for human rights;
U.S.-VENEZUELAN RELATIONS
society; and cooperating in the defense
The right of all peoples to
and security of the Western Hemisphere
self-determination;
The United States and Venezuela share
against aggression or subversion.
Nonintervention in the internal
the objectives of strengthening
Not only does Venezuela endorse the
affairs of other nations;
democratic institutions; furthering
theoretical goals of democracy, but it has
Peaceful settlement of disputes
human rights; accelerating sound
between nations;
economic, social, and cultural develop-
ment through orderly and progressive
worked with the United States vigor-
Principal U.S. Officials
Caracas (tel. 284-6111/284-7111). Office
ously to promote democracy and human
Ambassador-Otto J. Reich
hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday
rights throughout the hemisphere.
Venezuela has adopted the American
Deputy Chief of Mission-Jeffrey
through Friday. The consulate in
Davidow
Maracaibo is in Edificio Sofimara, Piso
Convention on Human Rights and sup-
Political Counselor-Claus W. Ruser
3, Calle 77 con Avenida 13 (tel. 84253/
ports the Inter-American Commission on
Economic Counselor-Pierce K. Bullen
84254/83054/83055). Office hours are
Human Rights. Along with the United
Administrative Counselor-Frank M.
8:00 a.m. to noon and 2:00 p.m. to
States, Venezuela has worked toward
Schroeder
4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
and supported the goals of nuclear non-
Consul General-Don E. Bean
proliferation in the hemisphere, conven-
Defense and Air Attache-Col. James
Published by the United States Department
tional arms restraint, antiterrorism, and
of State Bureau of Public Affairs Office
the promotion of hemispheric economic
Nugent
of Public Communication Editorial Divi-
development. Venezuela and the United
Public Affairs Counselor-Guy Farmer
sion Washington, D.C. April 1987
States have similar views on the impor-
Agricultural Counselor-Lloyd Fleck
Editor: Juanita Adams
Labor Attache-Thomas M. Tonkin
tance of democratization as a key ele-
Regional Security Officer-Stephen H.
Department of State Publication 7749
ment in a solution to the problems of
Central America.
Jacobs
Background Notes Series This material is
Venezuela is one of the United
Consul, Maracaibo-Michael E.
in the public domain and may be reproduced
States' most important Latin American
Malinowski
without permission; citation of this source
would be appreciated.
trading partners and a major supplier of
The U.S Embassy in Venezuela is
petroleum and petroleum products to the
located at Avenida de Miranda and
For sale by the Superintendent of Docu-
United States.
Avenida Principal de la Floresta,
ments, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402
58
Venezuela
climate, and mineral and ecological endowment, forms
plains to the peaks of the Andes heights, and the rugged
one of the areas most suitable for settlement on the Afri-
mass of the Guiana Highlands. Three broad geographical
can continent.
divisions may be observed-the coastal mountain region
(which reaches heights of about 16,500 feet above sea
BIBLIOGRAPHY. J.P.H. ACOCKS, The Veld-Types of South
Africa (1953); R.S. ADAMSON, The Vegetation of South Africa
level); the plains (about 1,000 feet above sea level); and
(1938); J.R. ELLERMAN et al., South African Mammals
the forest region (about 8,200 feet above sea level).
(1953); W. ROSE, Reptiles and Amphibians of Southern
Within these three broad divisions, seven physiographi-
Africa (1950); A. ROBERTS, Birds of South Africa, 2nd ed.
cal provinces can be distinguished-the islands and coast-
rev. (1958); and C.R. VAN DER MERWE, Soil Groups and Sub-
al plains; the Lago de Maracaibo Basin; the coastal moun-
Groups of South Africa (1941), all provide ecological back-
tain system; the valleys and hills of the states of Falcón,
ground. For useful material on the geology, soils, water re-
Lara, and Yaracuy within the northwestern part of the
sources, flora, and fauna of the Rhodesian veld, see W.V.
country; the Andes mountain range (Cordillera of the
BRELSFORD (ed.), Handbook to the Federation of Rhodesia
Andes); the Llanos; and the Guiana (Guaiana, Gua-
and Nyasaland (1960). Two of the best geographical ac-
counts are M.M. COLE, South Africa, 2nd ed. (1966); and
yana) continental block (in Spanish, Macizo de Guaya-
J.H. WELLINGTON, Southern Africa, vol. 1 (1955). F. CLARK
na).
HOWELL and F. BOURLIERE (eds.), African Ecology and Hu-
The islands and the coastal plains (covering 18 percent
man Evolution (1966), contains research papers bearing on
of Venezuela) are located in the north and northeast of
the ecology and early settlement of the veld. Other informa-
the country, from the Caribbean Sea to the northern
tive works are: R.W.J. KEAY, Vegetation Map of Africa South
mountain range (Cordillera de la Costa). Within this
of the Sahara (1959), the best available cartographic analy-
region are two important basins-the Unare Basin and
sis; L.C. KING, South African Scenery, 3rd ed. (1963), a clas-
the Orinoco Delta-and the main ports of La Guaira,
sic study with detailed geomorphological discussion of veld
Puerto Cabello, and Puerto la Cruz. Of the chain of
subregions; N.C. POLLOCK and S. AGNEW, An Historical Ge-
islands, the principal one is Margarita Island.
ography of South Africa (1963), an account of the settle-
The Maracaibo Basin, which contains a shallow, fresh-
ment and economy of the region down to 1910; A.M. and
W.J. TALBOT, Atlas of South Africa (1960), an invaluable
water lake with an area of about 5,000 square miles,
source book of geographical information about the veld;
consists of sedimentary rocks. It contains the most impor-
B.W. THOMPSON, The Climate of Africa (1965); and E.A.
tant oil wells in Venezuela and the port of Maracaibo.
WALKER, History of Southern Africa, 3rd ed. (1957).
The coastal mountain system is located between the
(G.H.T.K.)
narrow coastal belt to the north and the plains of the
interior to the south; though it represents only 3 percent
Venezuela
of the national territory, it contains the greatest concen-
Venezuela, known as the "Gateway to South America," is
tration of population. It is formed by two parallel moun-
a republic located at the northern extremity of the South
tain ranges-the coastal range and the interior range. The
American continent. It is bounded by the Caribbean Sea
highest points are the peak of Naiguatá (9,069 feet
and the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Guyana to the east,
[2,765 metres]) in the central sector of the coastal range
Brazil to the south, and Colombia to the southwest and
and the Turimiquire (8,104 feet [2,470 metres]) in the
west. Venezuela also possesses some islands in the Carib-
eastern sector of the coastal range. The interior range
bean, of which the largest is the offshore Margarita Is-
reaches its maximum height at Platillón (6,323 feet
land, and the most northerly is Aves Island, about 250
[1,931 metres]). Three important cities are located in the
miles north of Margarita. Venezuela also claims an addi-
valleys of this region-Caracas, the capital; Valencia;
tional 58,000 square miles of territory now located in
and Maracay.
northwestern Guyana.
The valleys and hills of the states of Falcón, Lara, and
Venezuela, the sixth largest country in South America,
Yaracuy have altitudes of from 1,600 to 5,500 feet. This
has a population of about 10,800,000. The name Venezu-
region forms a transitional zone between the coastal
ela, or "Little Venice," was given to the country by the
mountain range and the Andes mountains and comprises
first Spanish explorers who, on seeing the native Indian
about 3 percent of the country's territory. The only desert
houses built over the water on stilts, were reminded of the
of Venezuela-the city of Coro's sand dunes-is found in
Italian city of Venice. Venezuela's north coast on the
this region.
Caribbean was the first part of South America to be
The Andes range, the highest mountain system in the
explored and settled by Europeans. The present-day com-
country, forms the northernmost prolongation of the
The
South American Andes. In Colombia, immediately to the
Venezu-
position of the country's population is the result of many
west of Venezuela, it divides into two branches. One-the
elan
centuries of mixing of whites, blacks, and American Indi-
Sierra de Perijá-runs roughly south to north along the
Andes
ans. Spanish is the official language and Roman Cathol-
icism the main religion of the country. Venezuela is a
Colombia-Venezuela border; the other-the Cordillera
federal republic with a democratic and representative
de Mérida-runs generally northeastward toward the Ca-
form of government. Caracas is the national capital.
ribbean Sea. The two branches enclose the Lago de Mara-
Until the 20th century, Venezuela was a poor, back-
caibo Basin. The highest point is Pico Bolívar (16,423
ward, and feudal agricultural nation. The discovery of oil
feet [5,007 metres]). The Andes ranges comprise ap-
in the vicinity of Lago de Maracaibo in 1917, however,
proximately 6 percent of the national territory and form
transformed the economy and brought prosperity. Vene-
another of the more densely populated regions, contain-
zuela has become the fourth largest oil-producing region,
ing such important cities as Mérida, San Cristóbal, Val-
after the United States, the Soviet Union, and the Middle
era, La Grita, and Tovar.
East. Because of the wealth of its oil reserves, it has been
The Llanos (q.v.), or plains, is a region with an almost
able to initiate land reform, to improve its agriculture, and
level relief, occupying approximately a third of the coun-
to promote industrial development. Economic advance
try's territory. From the Atlantic Ocean at the mouths of
has been accompanied by careful planning, so that in the
the Orinoco River, the plains extend for about 800 miles
early 1970s Venezuela had the highest annual average per
up to the Andean foothills, varying in width from 60
capita income of any Latin American country. The death
miles in the east to 250 miles in the west.
of dictator Juan Vicente Gomez in 1935 signalled a per-
South of the Orinoco and bordering Brazil and Colom-
iod of political awakening, and since 1958, Venezuela
bia is the Guiana Highlands, a mountainous mass
has been regarded as one of the few true democracies of
that is one of the largest granite blocks in the world. It is
South America. (For associated physical features, see
the most extensive natural region of Venezuela and occu-
ANDES MOUNTAIN RANGES; LLANOS; and ORINOCO RIVER.
pies about 45 percent of its total area. It is also the least
See also the city article CARACAS. For historical aspects,
known and the most sparsely inhabited. Its granitic base
see VENEZUELA, HISTORY OF.)
is covered with stratified alluvium, in which erosion has
carved different types of relief. In places are found gigan-
THE LANDSCAPE
tic mounds or masses, known as tepuis-some as high as
The natural environment. Relief. The physical relief
6,000 feet-which have resisted erosion. To the southeast
of Venezuela varies from the level topography of the
of the Guiana Highlands and encircled by tepuis lies a
Venezuela
59
region known as La Gran Sabana (the Great Plain). Lo-
to April and then suffer equally from an overabundance
cated in this area is the Auyan-Tepui mound, 8,400 feet
of precipitation, with the flooding of whole countrysides
high, as well as Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the
from June to October.
world-3,296 feet (1,005 metres) high. The Guiana
Temperature differences, on the other hand, are slight
Highlands is an excellent mining region, abounding in
throughout the year. The average annual temperature at
deposits of iron ore, gold, and diamonds; it also possesses
Caracas, for example, is 70° F (21° C), and no month
a considerable hydroelectric potential, as well as vast
averages more than 72° F (22° C) or less than 64° F
forest resources.
(18° C). Altitude, however, affects temperatures in
Drainage. The Venezuelan drainage network consists
marked fashion. For example, Maracaibo, at sea level,
Atlantic
almost entirely of two great watersheds-one emptying
averages just above 82° F (28° C) for the year, while
and
into the Atlantic Ocean (82 percent), the other into the
Mérida at 5,383 feet (1,641 metres) averages just above
Carib-
Caribbean Sea (17.5 percent). The remaining 0.5 percent
64° F (18° C). On some of the higher mountain peaks,
bean
constitutes the small endoreic basin (a drainage basin
temperatures are low enough to maintain permanent
watersheds
having no outlet) of Lake Valencia, located in the central
snow. Whatever the average temperature, there is little
section of the coastal range.
difference from month to month; the day-to-night varia-
The great Orinoco River (q.v.) drains a 366,000-
tion is markedly greater, however.
square-mile basin and runs 1,336 miles from its source
Vegetation. About half of Venezuela is covered with
Forests
close to the Brazilian border until it empties into the
forests of some kind. A little less than half is still in wild
and
Atlantic Ocean through a number of distributaries, or
grass, though much of this is used for at least occasional
grasslands
caños, which form a delta. In the upper Orinoco region
grazing. Only about 6 percent, most in the valleys of the
the waters are tumultuous and rapid and flow in an east-
Andes and of the coastal ranges, is under permanent
west direction as far as the village of San Fernando de
cultivation. The vast Llanos, most of the lofty tablelands
Atabapo; some of the river waters are diverted to the
of the Guiana Highlands, and numerous smaller areas in
Amazon River (q.v.) through the Casiquiare channel
the Andean páramos (high, bleak plateaus) have little in
and the Río Guainía. In its middle course the Orinoco
the way of trees. In the better watered places, the grass is
runs slowly and follows a northern direction, until it is
compact and tall; in drier areas, such as high Andean
joined on the left bank by the waters of the Río Apure.
districts and parts of the Guiana tablelands, it is sparse
The lower Orinoco flows due east.
and hard. Rain forest covers an area found in the lower
Among the main tributaries of the Orinoco River is the
Orinoco Basin and Delta, in the far southern Orinoco
Río Caroní, which flows at a rate of 200,000 cubic feet
drainage basin bordering on Colombia and Brazil, and
per second. It has great hydroelectrical potential because
in smaller extensions about the windward lower and mid-
of its numerous falls; in the Necuima area, the Guri Dam
dle slopes of the northern highlands.
forms a lake with an area eight times greater than that of
Most of the plant life of Venezuela is tropical and non-
Lake Valencia. Other tributary rivers are the Caura, Aro,
deciduous, retaining its foliage throughout the year, or
Ventuari, and Meta.
shedding it little by little, never becoming entirely leaf-
The rivers of the Caribbean watershed flow from the
less. Even in the arid regions where the vegetation is
northern slopes of the Andean and coastal ranges. In it is
sparse and the foliage scant, there is little change from
found the basin of Lago de Maracaibo (18,000 square
season to season.
miles), which receives the waters of the Cordillera de
Both indigenous and introduced plants cover a wide
Mérida and Sierra de Perijá ranges. Also into the Carib-
range because of the differences in altitude. The true
bean watershed flow the waters of minor coastal basins,
tropical vegetation, whether moist or dry, extends to an
the rivers of which have dry beds during the several
altitude of about 1,500 feet, above which it gives way
low-rainfall winter months of the year.
(except in the moister districts) to semitropical growth.
The Lake Valencia basin, only about 140 square miles in
This zone, marked by tree ferns and orchids, reaches up
extent, is steadily shrinking as the result of a continuing
to about 5,000 feet. From this point to about 7,000 to
combined process of sedimentation and evaporation. Sci-
8,000 feet, there is a transition into a mountain type;
entific farming and ever growing industry have given the
above 8,000 or 9,000 feet, the characteristic páramo vege-
basin great economic value.
tation begins, with plants of an alpine character dominat-
Soils. Venezuelan soils are mainly laterites (red soils
ing.
with a high content of iron oxides and aluminum hydrox-
The principal plants of economic value are coffee, ca-
Areas
nezu-
ide). The most valuable for cultivation are in the valleys
cao, sisal, and bananas. Maize (corn), beans, rice, pota-
of most
of the state of Aragua, in the cocoa-growing area of the
toes, sugarcane, cotton, tobacco, sweet potatoes, oranges,
valuable
ides
Río Tuy basin, and in the sugarcane-growing area of
lemons, coconut palms, papayas, avocados, mangos,
soils
the Turbio, Tocuyo, Aroa, and Yaracuy river basins. Of
guavas, and cassava are commonly grown for local con-
lesser value but also of agricultural importance are the
sumption.
soils found in the lowlands of the western plains and
Animal life. The animal life of Venezuela is similar to
south of Lago de Maracaibo. Other soils are typical of the
that of the neighbouring regions of Colombia, Brazil, and
vast flooded plains of the lowlands. Limestone soils are
the Guianas. The open Llanos of the Orinoco form, some-
found in the mountains of the state of Falcón and in the
thing of a neutral district between the great forested re-
Andes. Swampy plains are found around Lake Valencia
gions on the east, south, and west. Among the indigenous
and in the Orinoco Delta.
(I.S.de
animals are seven species of the cat family, including the
Climate. The climate throughout Venezuela is tropi-
puma, the jaguar, and the ocelot; the wild dog; repre-
cal, with the seasons marked more by differences in rain-
sentatives of the marten family, including two species of
fall than in temperature. The year is divided into two
otter and one of the skunk; and two species of bear.
seasons, the rainy and the dry (locally known as winter
There are six species of monkeys corresponding to those
and summer), the rains occurring mostly from April to
of the Guiana Highlands and the Amazon Valley; the
October or November, and the dry season most marked
sloth and anteater; and more than ten known genera of
from November through March or April. The wet and
rodents. The tapir (a large, hoofed quadruped resembling
dry seasons regulate agricultural activities, affect travel
a swine) is found in the forests of the Orinoco. There are
and transportation, and determine vacation periods.
two species of the peccary (resembling the pig); two
Rainfall varies much from district to district. The north-
species of deer; and three species of opossum. On the
east trade winds blow across the coastal areas without
coast and in the Orinoco are found aquatic mammals,
leaving much precipitation, in places less than 20 inches
such as the manatee (which is herbivorous and gregarious
per year. La Guaira, for example, receives an average of
and has two flippers and a spoon-shaped tail) and the
only 11 inches. Areas lying behind topographic barriers
dolphin.
also get little rain, while windward slopes are generally
Among reptiles there are crocodiles; lizards; caymans
well watered. In some areas enough rain falls to support
(crocodilians related to alligators); several species of tur-
lush jungle growth, in others true selva (rain forest). The
tles; and many snakes, including the striped rattlesnake
Llanos suffer severely from drought from about January
and the bushmaster. Nonvenomous snakes include the
Venezuela
63
MAP INDEX (continued)
Pakaraima
boa constrictor and the anaconda. Amphibians include tree
Mountains
4-30n 61-15w
frogs, toads, and salamanders.
Duida, Cerro,
Palmar, river
10:10n 71.50w
mountain
3.25n 65-40w
Pao, river
8-33n 68.01w
Bird life is represented chiefly by migratory species. In
Erebato, river
5-54n 64-16w
Paragua, river.
6-55n 62.55w
the garzeros ("heron rendezvous") are to be found near-
Escalante, river
9.15n 71.50w
Paraguaná,
ly every kind of crane, heron, stork, and ibis. Ducks, in-
Grande, Boca,
Península de
11.55n 70.00w
river mouth
8-38n 60-30w
Paria, Gulf of
10-20n 62-00w
cluding a small one called the güirirí in imitation of its
Guainía, river
2.01n 67.07w
Parima, Sierra,
cry, and birds of prey are numerous. The guácharos, or
Guaiquinima,
mountains
3.00n 64.20w
Cerro, mesa
5.49n 63.40w
Parú, river
4-20n 66.27w
oilbirds, live in caves, especially in Caripe, and are caught
Guampi, Sierra de,
Parucito, Caño,
for the oil extracted from them. The bellbird is common
mountains
6.00n 65-35w
river
5-18n 65.59w
in the forests of the Orinoco.
Guanare, river.
8.13n 67-46w
Penas, Punta,
Guanare Viejo,
point.
10:40n 61-40w
There are almost 100 families of insects. Locusts are
river
8.19n 68.10w
Perijá, Sierra de,
common in the interior, though seldom constituting a
Guanipa, river,
9.56n 62.26w
mountains
10-00n 73.00w
plague. Mollusks, including the pearl oyster, are common
Guaribe, river
9.53n 65:11w
Piedras, Punta
Guarichapo,
10-53n 64.07w
on the coasts and in the freshwater streams and lakes.
de, point
river
7.27n 62.03w
Portuguesa, river.
7.57n
67.32w
Domestic animals include about 8,500,000 cattle, most-
Guarico, river
7.55n 67.23w
Prespuntal, river 10-08n 64-39w
ly in the great herds that pasture on the Llanos. There
Guárico, Embalse
Real Corona,
de, reservoir
9-05n 67.25w
river
7.33n 64-06w
are about 1,500,000 goats, 100,000 sheep, and 1,670,000
Guasare, river
11.03n 72.02w
Roraima, Mount,
swine. Oxen and horses and a few mules are used as draft
Guatopo,
mountain
5.12n 60.44w
animals on some farms, and farmyard poultry is com-
Parque
San Carlos, Isla,
Nacional,
island
11-01n 71.43w
mon.
(R.E.Cr./E.P.Ha.)
national park
10-05n 66.25w
San Carlos, river
9.07n 68.25w
Traditional regions. The six traditional regions of
Guayapo, river
4-30n 67-35w
San Juan, river.
10.14n 62.38w
Güere, river
9-50n 65-08w
San Román,
Venezuela can be clearly differentiated, even though the
Guiana
Cabo, cape
12-12n 70-00w
development of communications has tended to reduce
Highlands,
Santa Maria,
differences; they are the central, western, Zulian, Andean,
physical region
4-00n 60.00w
river
7.54n 60.37w
Guri, Embalse,
Santo Domingo,
plains, and eastern regions.
reservoir
7-30n 62.50w
river
8.01n 69-33w
The central region is composed of the Federal District
Henry Pittier,
Serpents Mouth,
and of the states of Miranda, Aragua, and Carabobo,
Parque Nacional,
channel
10:00n 62.00w
national park
10-25n 67-40w
Siapa, river
2.07n 66.28w
situated along the northern Atlantic coast. A high pro-
Icabaru, river
4-45n 62.15w
Sierra Nevada,
portion of the population of the region is urban; the
Iduburojo, Isla,
Parque Nacional
(Simon Bolivar),
principal urban concentration occurs around Caracas.
island
9-05n 60.42w
Iguana, river
7.54n 65.46w
national park
8-36n 70.50w
The region contains the greater part of the nation's indus-
La Blanquilla,
Sipapo, river
5.03n 67.48w
try and commerce and its principal ports and airports.
island
11.51n 64-37w
Socopo, Cerro,
La Gran Sabana,
mountain
10-28n 70.48w
The states of Falcón, Lara, and Yaracuy comprise the
plain
5.30n 61-30w
Suatá, river
7-52n 65.22w
western region. Its population is about equally divided
La Guajiva,
Supamo, river
6-48n 61.50w
between urban and rural inhabitants. Agriculture is the
Península de
12.00n 71-40w
Tamacuavi, Pico,
La Orchila,
peak
1.15n 64-45w
principal economic activity, although industrialization is
island
11-48n 66-09w
Tamanaco, river
9.25n 65.23w
becoming important.
La Tortuga, Isla,
Tarra, river
9-05n 72-30w
The Zulian region, including Lago de Maracaibo, is a
island
10.56n 65-20w
Tigre, river
9-20n 62.30w
Llanos, physical
Tiznados, river
8.16n 67.47w
major oil-producing area. Commercial and agricultural
region
5.00n 70.00w
Tobe Jube,
activities are stimulated by industrial development.
Lora, river
9.25n 72-25w
Bahia, bay
9-15n 60-45w
Los Hermanos,
Tocuyo, river
11-03n 68-23w
The Andean region consists of the mountainous states of
Islas, islands
11-45n 64.25w
Tonoro, river
9.29n 63.17w
Táchira, Mérida, and Trujillo. It is predominantly rural,
Los Roques, Islas,
Triste, Golfo, bay. 10:40n 68.10w
and its economy is based on the cultivation of small
islands
11.50n 66-45w
Tucacas, Punta,
Los Testigos,
point
10.50n 68.14w
farms and on some industrial and commercial activity.
llas, islands
11-22n 63-06w
Turimiquire, Cerro,
The plains region occupies the states of Cojedes, Guá-
Macareo, Caño,
mountain
10.07n 63.53w
rico, Portuguesa, Barinas, and Apure. Its people are large-
stream
Uaiauaka, river
1.23n 66.00w
distributory
9-47n 61-37w
Uinebona, river
5.04n 63.01w
ly engaged in agriculture and cattle raising. The plains-
Macaruma, river
7.37n 61-48w
Unare, river
10-03n 65.14w
man ("llanero") is reputedly frank yet shrewd, with a
Manamo, Caño,
Upire, river
11.27n 68.58w
sense of humour. This region has a folklore of its own.
stream
Valencia, Lago
distributory
9.55n 62.16w
de, lake
10.15n 67-45w
The eastern region consists of the states of Anzoátegui,
Manapiare, river.
5.04n 66.30w
Venezuela, Golfo
Sucre, Nueva Esparta, Monagas, and Bolívar, as well as
Manapire, river
7.42n 66.07w
de, gulf
11.30n 71.00w
Mana- Tará, Cerro,
3.58n 67.02w
the Delta Amacuro and the Amazonas territories. Its
Ventuari, river
mountain
10-06n 72.52w
Yacambu,
population is about equally divided between urban and
Maracaíbo, Lago
Parque Nacional,
rural elements. Agriculture and fishing engage the great-
de, lake
9-50n 71-30w
national park
9.40n 69.42w
Marahuaca, Cerro,
Yaracuy, river
10-33n 68.15w
est part of the active population, although the petroleum
mountain
3-34n 65-27w
Yatua, river
1.43n 66:30w
industry and mining are also important.
Margarita, Isla de,
Yaví, Cerro,
The landscape under human settlement.
Settlement
island
11-00n 64.00w
mountain
5-32n 65-59w
Marieta, river
5-02n 66.38w
Yudi, river
5-31n 64-33w
patterns have remained essentially the same since the
Mariusa, Caño,
Yumari, Cerro,
time of Spanish colonization. The main nucleus of popu-
stream
mountain
4.27n 66.50w
distributory
9-43n 61.26w
Yuruari, river
6-44n 61-40w
lation is located in the mountainous areas of the north
Masparro, Punta,
Yurubi, Parque
and west, which constitute less than 9 percent of the
point
10-40n 66.15w
Nacional,
national area but contain 50 percent of the population.
Maticora, river
11.03n 71.09w
national park
10-25n 68.42w
Matiyure, river
7-36n 67.39w
Zamuro, Punta,
Low population densities occur in the central plains and
Mato, river
7.09n 65.07w
point
11-26n 68.50w
in the dense forest region of the Guiana Highlands. The
Mato, Cerro,
Zulia, river
9.04n 72.20w
mountain
7-15n 65.14w
only modification of existing patterns resulted from the
Mavaca, river
2-31n 65.11w
development of the oil industry in the 1920s, which led to
Memo, river
9.16n 66.40w
internal migrations and to the urbanization of new areas.
Merevari, river
4-28n 63.57w
Merida, Cordillera
The rural landscape is characterized by the division of
Rural
de, mountains
8-40n-71-00w
land into small farms (minifundios) and large estates
settlement
Meta, river
6.12n 67.28w
Morere, river
10-14n 69.57w
(latifundios). The estates are mainly engaged in exten-
patterns
Morichal Largo,
sive cattle raising and the commercial cultivation of such
river
9.27n 62.25w
Naiguatá, Pico,
crops as sugarcane and sesame. The small farms are pre-
peak
10:33n 66.46w
dominantly subsistence units on which corn and legumes
Negro, river
9-36n 72.15w
are cultivated. A mixture of Spanish, African, and In-
Ocamo, river
2.48n 65.14w
Orinoco, river
8.37n 62.15w
dian traditions is conserved, so that the rural areas form
Orinoco, Delta
del
9.15n 61-30w
a repository of national folklore. Diet is directly related
Orituco, river
8.45n 67.27w
to local agricultural products; there is a preference for
Oro, Río de, river.
9-10n 72.47w
cereals and legumes. The characteristic house, called
Oronato, river
7.23n 62.01w
Padamo, river
2.54n 6517w
a rancho, has adobe (sun-dried brick) or mud walls, a
64
Venezuela
thatched or sheet-metal roof, dirt floors, and minimum
800,000. But overall population density continues to be
hygienic and service facilities. The type of clothing worn
low, averaging only about 30 inhabitants per square mile.
is related to environmental conditions; the cool liquiliqui
The greater part of the population is young; in 1961
(cotton or linen man's suit) is worn by plainsmen and the
more than 50 percent of the population were below 20
thick ruana (woolen poncho, or cape) by inhabitants of
years of age. In the early 1970s it was estimated that
the Andes.
about 75 percent were under 30.
Cities are often specialized in function. Ciudad Guay-
In contrast with such countries as Argentina, Brazil, and
ana, for example, is industrial; Barquisimeto is commer-
Chile, Venezuela did not receive an appreciable influx of
cial; and Mérida is a university town. Caracas, as the
immigrants during the 19th century or the first half of the
capital city, is cosmopolitan and more diversified. The
20th century. Between 1950 and 1971, however, almost
daily rhythm of life in the cities is based on a five-day
1,000,000 Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, or other European
work week and an eight-hour work day. In housing, a
immigrants arrived, settling in the major cities. For the
contrast exists between Spanish traditional architecture
most part, Venezuelans do not emigrate to other coun-
and the boldest lines of modern design. Styles of dress are.
tries but have increasingly moved about within the coun-
largely Western, and diet is related to level of income. In
try. From the 1930s to 1961, 24 percent of the popula-
the low-income group the diet is based on beans, corn, rice
tion had relocated within the country's borders.
and plaintain, while in the medium- and high-income
groups it contains a higher nutritional value, including
animal proteins and vitamins from vegetables and fruit.
Venezuela, Area and Population
PEOPLE AND POPULATION
area
population
Population groups. The official language of the coun-
sq mi
sq km
1961 census
1970 estimate
try is Spanish; it is enriched by numerous local idioms
Federal dependencies*
and colloquialisms. English is used in business, and Italian
Dependencias Federales
46
120
1,000
is spoken by most immigrants. In the Indian regions of
Federal district
the east, south, and west, more than 25 different languages
Distrito Federal
745
1,930
1,258,000
2,010,000
are spoken, most of which belong to the three linguistic
States (estados)
families, Cariban, Arawak, and Chibcha. There are also
Anzoátegui
16,718
43,300
382,000
501,000
some Indian languages of unknown origin spoken by iso-
Apure
29,537
76,500
118,000
158,000
Aragua
2,708
7,014
313,000
429,000
lated groups.
Barinas
13,591
35,200
139,000
194,000
For the past four centuries, Venezuela has acted as an
Bolivar
91,892
238,000
214,000
383,000
ethnic melting pot. The dominant ethnic type is the
Carabobo
1,795
4,650
382,000
512,000
Cojedes
mestizo (a person of mixed white, black, and Indian an-
5,714
14,800
73,000
95,000
Falcón
9,575
24,800
340,000
408,000
cestry). The white population results from immigration
Guárico
25,091
64,986
245,000
330,000
from Europe during the 20th century, largely from Italy
Lara
7,645
19,800
489,000
611,000
Composi-
and Spain. One percent are unassimilated Indians. The
Mérida
4,363
11,300
271,000
335,000
Miranda
tion
3,069
7,950
492,000
703,000
various Indian tribes live in isolated regions of the Lago
Monagas
11,158
28,900
246,000
317,000
of the
de Maracaibo Basin, in the Orinoco River Basin, and in
Nueva Esparta
444
1,150
89,000
113,000
population
the delta of Amacuro.
Portuguesa
5,869
15,200
204,000
285,000
Sucre
The overwhelming majority of the population is Roman
4,556
11,800
402,000
494,000
Táchira
4,286
11,100
399,000
526,000
Catholic. The largest minority religion is Protestantism;
Trujillo
2,857
7,400
327,000
382,000
and Judaism, Islãm, and Orthodox Christianity are also
Yaracuy
2,741
7,100
175,000
222,000
practiced. Indigenous Indian religions are characterized
Zulia
24,363
63,100
920,000
1,343,000
by a prevailing fear of evil spirits. The national consti-
Territories (territorios)
Amazonas
67,857
175,750
12,000
13,000
tution guarantees freedom of religion.
Delta Amacuro
15,521
40,200
34,000
34,000
Total Venezuela
355,759 t
921,417t
7,524,000$
10,399,000$
Barquisimeto
*Comprises the following major and other islands in the Caribbean: Las Aves,
Maracaibo
Valencia
Lake
CARIBBEAN SEA
La Blanquilla, Coche, Cubagua, Los Hermanos, Los Monjes, La Orchila, Los
Maracaibo
Maracay
Roques, Los Testigos, and La Tortuga. Includes 3,616 sq mi (9,367
Caracas
sq km) of water area. Excluding Indian population in the forests
estimated at 32,000 at 1961 census: Apure 4,000, Bolivar 4,000, Sucre
300, Zulia 4,000, Amazonas 20,000. Figures do not add to total given
because of rounding.
Source: Official government figures.
Venezuela is predominantly an urban country. In 1961
Ciudad
Guayana
over 62 percent of the population lived in cities, and 47
percent lived in cities of more than 20,000 inhabitants. By
San Cristobal
the early 1970s the urban population had grown to nearly
75 percent. The rural exodus has led to a reduction in agri-
cultural activity and the appearance of slums, or barrios
de ranchos ("neighbourhoods of huts"), on the out-
skirts of large cities. The principal urban centres are Ca-
The
Persons
racas (1970 population about 2,175,000), Maracaibo
principal
per sq mr
per sq km
(655,000), Barquisimeto (291,000), Valencia (232,000),
urban
10
4
Maracay (193,000), and San Cristóbal (157,000). It is
centres
20
8
foreseeable that, if present population trends continue, by
50
20
1981 the total population will be 15,000,000, 83 percent
100
40
of which will be urban and 17 percent rural.
200
75
0
100
200 mi
THE NATIONAL ECONOMY
0
100
200
300
km
The increasing participation of Venezuela in the world
Population density of Venezuela.
economy since the 1920s has been directly related to the
production of petroleum. Its exports of petroleum have
Demography. Venezuela possesses one of the greatest
penetrated the United States, European, and Latin Amer-
rates of population growth in Latin America, amounting
ican markets; increased imports, on the other hand, have
to over 3 percent a year. The population increase has
included agricultural equipment, industrial machinery,
resulted from the improvement of medical services, the
and consumer goods. During the 1960s Venezuela began
eradication of epidemics, and rising economic standards.
to reduce dependence on imported goods by encouraging
By 1971, there was an estimated population of 10,-
local manufactures, in addition to further expanding its
Venezuela
65
petrochemical and steel industries and developing its
and Dutch interests. Oil contributes almost 90 percent
hydroelectric potential.
of the revenues received by the Central Bank of Vene-
Venezuela is a member of the Latin American Free
zuela, or 70 percent of the country's total revenues.
Trade Association (LAFTA) and is ready to participate in
The Venezuelan Petroleum Corporation is a state-
the Andean Subregional Agreement (Andean Pact),
owned organization that produces, refines, and distributes
whose purpose is to economically integrate the Andean
petroleum products in competition with Venezuelan and
countries as a step toward integration of Latin America
foreign private industry. Before the 1960s, all oil was
as a whole.
refined outside the country; natural gas, obtained in the
The extent and distribution of resources. The country's
process of oil exploitation, was wasted. By 1971, how-
most important mineral resource is petroleum. The
ever, domestic oil refineries had been established. Natural
largest and richest deposit is in the Lago de Maracaibo
gas became subject to a law that limits its exploitation
Petroleum
Basin. The two other main deposits of oil and natural gas
and gave Venezuela the rights for its industrialization. The
resources
are located north of the Orinoco River in the states of
gas is now distributed by pipeline to be used as fuel, as
Monagas, Guárico, and Anzoátegui and in the western
a raw material in the new petrochemical industry, and
Llanos in the states of Portuguesa and Barinas. The
for the manufacture of liquid gas.
Orinoco belt has no less than 700,000,000,000 barrels of
Metals and mining. Venezuela is the world's tenth larg-
oil reserves, but total proven reserves for the country are
est producer of iron ore, which accounts for about 97
about 15,000,000,000 barrels.
percent of the country's total metal production. Reserves
Iron ore, which is 60 percent pure, is found in the Gui-
at Cerro Bolívar and El Pao are mined by United States
ana region. Deposits at Cerro Bolívar, El Pao, and other
companies under government concessions. The Venezue-
timate
mountain areas comprise a total proven reserve of
lan government also operates iron mines in the Guiana
1,800,000,000 tons. Gold, as well as both industrial and
Highlands.
gem diamonds, are also mined in the Guiana area. Low-
Prospects for mining bauxite, copper, zinc, and lead
grade bituminous and lignite coal is found in the Andean
are being explored in the early 1970s. Limestone is
foothills, and salt deposits are located in the Araya Penin-
quarried extensively to provide the raw material for the
,000
sula. There are also scattered deposits of limestone.
domestic cement industry. The government entered the
,000
Various minerals exist in less extensive deposits. These
coal-mining industry in the late 1960s through controlling
,000
include manganese, nickel, vanadium (a metallic element
shares in private companies. Exploitation of salt is a
,000
found combined in minerals and used to form alloys),
government monopoly. Most gold is mined by the govern-
,000
,000
chrome, lead, zinc, copper, bauxite, phosphate, and asbes-
ment; output has, however, decreased since the 1950s, and
,000
tos.
in the early 1970s most gold was imported for jewelry,
,000
The grasslands of the extensive plains provide grazing
coinage, and use in dentistry.
,000
for cattle. Of the 28,928,000 acres of total forest reserves,
Manufacturing. Manufacturing industries were origi-
,000
,000
about 85 percent is in Guiana; the greater part of the
nally concentrated in the Caracas area. Since the 1960s,
,000
remaining 10 percent is in the western plains. The com-
however, the government has striven to promote the es-
,000
mercial timber includes cabinet woods such as mahoga-
tablishment of industrial centres in several different loca-
Dispersal
,000
ny. Fish are found in abundance in the country's rivers
tions. Ciudad Guayana, on the lower Orinoco River, is
of
,000
,000
and lakes, as well as in the coastal waters.
the major centre for processing the mineral wealth of the
industrial
,000
Hydro-
Apart from oil, the nation's rivers constitute the most
Guiana region. Developed by the autonomous govern-
centres
,000
electric
important power resource. The greatest hydroelectric po-
ment body Corporación Venezolana de Guayana (Vene-
000
resources
tential is held by the Orinoco River and its tributary, the
,000
zuelan Guiana Corporation), it contains a steel mill
,000
Caroní. The Río Santo Domingo, which flows through
and an aluminum plant; a paper factory was under con-
the states of Mérida and Barinas, is the second most
struction in the late 1960s. There are also plans for the
000
important power resource. There are also hydroelectric
production of lumber.
,000
potentialities in the Uribante and Caparo rivers in the
Morón, on the coast 106 miles west of Caracas, is the
,000 $
Andes.
centre of the petrochemical industry; among its manu-
Aves,
Sources of national income. Agriculture. In 1970, ag-
factures are fertilizers, caustic soda, explosives, insecti-
Los
riculture contributed about 9 percent of the gross nation-
cides, and organic chemicals. Manufacturing in Mara-
al product (GNP) and provided work for 25 percent of the
caibo is concerned with the processing of foodstuffs, the
economically active population. The principal agricul-
remodelling and rebuilding of heavy machinery, and the
tural products are meat (beef, pork, fowl, goat, mutton),
production of paper articles, pharmaceuticals, and elec-
milk, corn, plantain and bananas, eggs, coffee, sugarcane,
trical equipment.
rice, and sesame.
The largest source of hydroelectric energy in South
About 80 percent of agricultural output is produced on
America is located in Venezuela on the lower Río Caroní
large landholdings with the remaining 20 percent on
where it flows down from the Guiana Highlands to join
small farms. Agrarian legislation, adopted in 1960, as-
the Orinoco. The lower river has a total estimated poten-
sures the small farmer of his property rights and guaran-
tial of 10,500,000 kilowatts. The scheme includes two
tees him technical assistance, credit, and a market for his
dams-the Macagua, which went into operation in 1961,
produce. In addition, under the land-reform measures,
and the Guri, still under construction in the early 1970s.
more than 100,000 rural families had been settled in rural
The project, which will have a total capacity of about
communities, or asentamientos, by the early 1970s. The
6,000,000 kilowatts, is expected to produce electricity for
he
asentamientos are agricultural units of houses equipped
Venezuela, Trinidad, Guyana, Brazil, and Colombia. In
incipal
with basic services; the units are grouped on seven to 25
addition, the projected hydroelectric scheme on the Río
ban
acres of land given to peasant families.
Santo Domingo will supply electricity to western Vene-
ntres
The national government owns 80 percent of the na-
zuela, as also will the planned scheme on the Uribante
tion's forests; the rest is held privately. The forestry in-
and Caparo rivers.
dustry is, however, little developed. Despite its potential,
Financial services. Financial services are provided by
fishing is also an undeveloped, mostly local, activity. A
the Central Bank, which issues the national currency,
small portion of the annual catch, mainly sardines and
as well as by a number of private banks. There are also
shellfish, is canned for export.
banks with mixed capital, such as the Workers' Bank
Petroleum. The exploitation of Venezuela's vast oil
(Banco de Los Trabajadores); and state banks such as
reserves is the principal source of the nation's income.
the Labourer's Bank (Banco Obrero). The construction
Oil production-which reached 3,700,000 barrels a day
of housing for the middle- and lower-income groups
in 1970-has permitted the increase of public spending,
is financed by the Labourer's Bank. The Agriculture
the strengthening of the country's import capacity, the
and Livestock Bank (Banco Agrícola y Pecuario) and
creation of basic industries, and the development of agri-
the Agriculture and Livestock Development Bank (Ban-
culture. Almost 80 percent of the gross foreign invest-
CO de Desarrollo Agropecuario) deal with agricultural
ment in Venezuela is concentrated in the oil industry;
loans. Mortgage banks make long-term loans on urban
most of this investment is made by United States, British,
real estate. The Venezuelan Development Corporation
66
Venezuela
(Corporación Venezolana de Fomento), a government
eastward from Caracas to San Tomé. There are several
institution, promotes industrial development by means of
branch and feeder roads.
long-term loans.
Railways, both for passenger and freight transport, are
Insurance companies occupy a secondary position in the
relatively unimportant. One public line built as part of a
financing of economic activities. Venezuela has two stock
previous nation-wide railway plan runs northeastward
exchanges, but the volume of their transactions is moder-
from Barquisimeto in Lara state to Puerto Cabello on the
ate. The financial market, favoured by a marked stability
coast and to Caracas. Private railways serve the iron and
of its prices and by the absence of obstacles to money
steel industry, running from mines in the Guiana region
exchange, is mainly supplied by internal savings.
to Ciudad Guayana on the Orinoco River.
Foreign trade. Venezuela maintains a favourable bal-
More than 98 percent of the nation's foreign commerce
ance of trade. In 1970, 90 percent of total exports was
is carried by sea. There are a number of ports, of which
represented by oil and its derivatives; iron ore accounted
several are used by international shipping; many small
for another 6 percent. Coffee and cocoa together with
ports serve fishing or coastal trade purposes. General
processed agricultural products and manufactures repre-
cargo is handled at eight ports run by the government-
sented 4 percent. Major export destinations are the Unit-
La Guaira, Maracaibo, Puerto Cabello, Guanta, Puerto
ed States, the Netherlands Antilles, Canada, the United
Sucre, Carúpano, Las Piedras, and Ciudad Bolívar.
Kingdom, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Inland waterways are in use principally around Lago de
About half of all imports come from the United States.
Maracaibo or the Orinoco River. A dredged channel be-
Other major import sources include West Germany, Ja-
tween the Golfo de Venezuela and Lago de Maracaibo
pan, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Canada. Among the
allows sea-going vessels to dock at the ports of Maracaibo,
chief imports are industrial machinery, transport equip-
Bobures, and La Salina. A dredged channel through the
ment, and cereals.
Orinoco Delta permits sea-going vessels also to sail up-
Management of the economy. The public sector plays
river to Ciudad Guayana. The upper Orinoco and the
a major role because of governmental participation in the
Apure rivers are used as waterways because of a lack of
oil and iron-ore industries. Revenues from those indus-
connecting roads.
tries finance other economic or social activities of the
Transoceanic air routes use Venezuelan international
The
government. The building industry, for example, depends
airports as a stopover, as do flights between North and
role of
largely on public works including the construction of
South America. There are three national airline compa-
govern-
highways, roads, airports, and buildings. More than 60
nies, one of which operates international air services.
ment
percent of the fiscal income is derived from taxes on the
Venezuela has almost 500 airports, of which six are
oil industry. Oil revenues take the form of taxes on oil
international. More than 400 airports are privately oper-
production, and a 60 percent tax on profits. Other govern-
ated; the others are operated either by the government or
mental revenue is obtained from a graduated income tax
by municipalities.
and from other sources such as Customs.
Organized labour includes individual trade unions, as
ADMINISTRATION AND SOCIAL CONDITIONS
well as the powerful Confederation of Venezuelan Work-
Government. The Venezuelan constitution is based on
ers (Confederación de Trabajadores de Venezuela). Em-
principles of republican, democratic, and representative
ployers' organizations are grouped together in the Feder-
government. Its federal form of government is exercised
ation of Chambers of Commerce and Production.
through its executive, legislative, and judicial branches,
Foreign capital and technology have played an impor-
none of which may prevail over the others.
tant role in promoting the expansion of manufacturing.
Executive power is exercised by a directly elected presi-
The
To a lesser extent, joint participation by foreign and Ven-
dent who is the head of state and of the armed forces. A
executive
ezuelan capital has been used to develop certain enterpris-
council of ministers, whose members individually act as
and
es such as the manufacture of stoves and the assembly of
secretaries of state, constitutes the principal auxiliary for
legislative
automobiles.
carrying out executive functions. Legislative power is in-
powers
In the early 1970s one of the main economic problems
vested in a two-chamber congress consisting of the Senate
confronting the country was the question of participation
and the Chamber of Deputies. The Senate is composed of
in LAFTA and the Andean Pact. The degree of develop-
two elected representatives from each of the 20 states and
ment reached by Venezuelan industry and agriculture
from the Federal District. The number of deputies is in
obliged the country to seek markets that would permit it
proportion to the number of inhabitants in each state.
to maintain the rhythm of expansion necessitated by its
In addition to the 20 states and the Federal District,
social needs. While the hemispheric blocs favour the
there are two federal territories, and ten islands in the
country's expanding steel and petrochemical industries,
Caribbean are organized as federal dependencies. The
they present hard competition for Venezuela's relatively
states are officially autonomous units, each headed by a
expensive manufactures and agricultural produce. An-
governor who is appointed by the president. The state
other problem will face the government at the end of the
legislative assemblies are composed of two elected repre-
decade of the 1970s, since in 1983 about three-quarters of
sentatives from each administrative district and are em-
the oil concessions held by foreign companies will expire.
powered to approve or reject the governor's annual. re-
Venezuela has passed through the preliminary stages of
port. The basic political-administrative unit of the Vene-
its economic development. It now needs to consolidate its
zuelan state is the municipality, which is composed of a
gains by developing secondary industries that will reduce
municipal council that functions in the capital of each
its need to import manufactured goods, as well as by
district. They are locally autonomous units that operate
securing stable markets abroad for its ever-growing pro-
within the state and national framework.
duction.
Elections are held at five-year intervals. The president of
Transportation. The nation's transportation system is
the republic and the senators, deputies, and state and
well developed, especially in the northern and northwest-
municipal councils are elected for five-year terms by
ern regions. Domestic travel depends largely on the road
universal suffrage, with direct and secret voting. The elec-
network. Industrial transportation needs are served by
tions are contested by political parties, the existence of
coastal shipping routes as well as by inland waterways.
which is guaranteed by the constitution. In the early
Air services provide access to regions without other
1970s there were 11 national parties, the strongest of
means of communication.
which were the Acción Democrática (AD) and the Par-
The
There are almost 35,000 miles of roads, of which about
tido Social Cristiano (COPEI).
road
70 percent are all-weather roads and 30 percent are dirt
Every citizen over 18 years of age, man or woman,
system
roads passable only during the dry season. There are
literate or illiterate, has the right to vote. Voting is either
three trunk roads-the 600-mile section of the Pan-
through political parties or through so-called groups of
American Highway that runs southwestward from Cara-
electors (organizations other than political parties that
cas to Cúcuta, Colombia; the 500-mile Western Highway
are authorized to run presidential candidates), the num-
that runs along the Andes foothills from Valencia to San
ber of which is prescribed by law.
Cristóbal; and the 800-mile Llanos Highway that extends
The administration of justice is national in character;
Venezuela
67
there are no state courts. The highest judicial body is the
the rural population and those who inhabit the city slums.
Supreme Court of Justice, the members of which are
The middle-income group (almost 40 percent) is com-
appointed by the Congress. It hears cases of a civil, crim-
posed of professionals, technicians, and other persons
inal, or political-administrative nature. The judges and
with jobs that are moderately remunerated. The small
members of the lower courts of ordinary or special juris-
upper-income group (less than 4 percent) includes ad-
diction are appointed by the Judiciary Council, which is
ministrators, executives, and highly qualified profession-
composed of seven members, five of whom are appointed
als.
by the Congress and two by the president. All decisions in
first-instance courts may be appealed to a higher court,
CULTURAL LIFE AND INSTITUTIONS
but there is no appeal from decisions of the Supreme
The fine arts in Venezuela have been influenced by the
Court. Each municipality has its own police force. The
most recent trends in Europe, the United States, Mexico,
Ministry of Justice is responsible for the prison system as
and Brazil. At the same time, Venezuelans have them-
well as for the auxiliary police.
selves made important contributions to the plastic arts,
The armed forces are headed by the president, who is
and exhibitions by Venezuelan artists are shown in Eu-
assisted by the secretary of defense. The defense system is
rope and the United States. Jesús Soto is an outstanding
composed of a 15,000-man army, a 10,000-man national
producer of "kinetic art," which contains moving parts.
guard, a 9,000-man navy, and a 9,000-man air force. All
Some Venezuelan authors have also achieved internation-
services have officer-training schools. All males over 18
al fame. The most outstanding writers are the novelist
years of age must serve in the armed forces for two years.
Rómulo Gallegos (1884-1969) and the novelist and
Education and welfare. During the 1960s, educational
essayist Arturo Uslar Pietri (1906- ).
services were greatly expanded throughout the nation.
Venezuelans are traditionally known for their musical
In the early 1970s government policy was aimed at
abilities. Different regions of the country each produce
qualitative improvement to better meet the needs of the
distinctive musical expressions. Since the 1920s the gov-
developing economy. Primary education is free and com-
ernment has sponsored one of the most outstanding sym-
pulsory; there are more than 10,000 primary schools. On
phony orchestras in Latin America. The government also
the secondary level, there are about 670 high schools, 330
sponsors an Institute of Culture and Fine Arts (INCIBA),
technical schools, and 50 teacher-training schools. Pri-
which promotes the publication of books and arranges
vate schools play a significant role at the primary and
for the free distribution of some of them, directly or
secondary levels. Higher education, free to competent
indirectly subsidizes magazines of cultural value, spon-
students, is provided by eight public and three private
sors exhibitions, and maintains various museums, acade-
universities, two teachers' colleges, and one polytechnic
mies, and cultural centres, as well as the Biblioteca Na-
institute. About 24 percent of the population is enrolled
cional (National Library) in Caracas.
in schools. As a result of adult education, the illiteracy
Among the numerous artistic or learned societies are the
rate was lowered to 16 percent in 1970.
Asociación Venezolana Amigos del Arte Colonial (Vene-
Health
The government is engaged in expanding health and
zuelan Association of the Friends of Colonial Art), the
and
welfare services. To improve health conditions, sanitary
Sociedad Amigos del Museo de Bellas Artes (Society of
housing
facilities are being constructed, hospitals and rural medi-
the Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts), and the-Aso-
cal centres are being built, and more doctors and nurses
ciación Nacional de Escritores Venezolanos (Venezuelan
are being trained. Medical assistance is both public (free)
Writers' Association). International cultural institutes in-
and private. Public medical assistance is given by the
clude the British Council and the Centro Venezolano-
Ministry of Health in public hospitals and other centres.
Americano (Venezuelan-American Centre). There are nu-
The Instituto Venezolano de los Seguros Sociales offers
merous specialized, university, and government libraries
cutive
medical and economic assistance to urban workers and
throughout the country.
employees. The aged and the physically handicapped are
The museums in Caracas include the Museo de Bellas
slative
aided by the Patronato Nacional de Ancianos e Inválidos.
Artes de Caracas (Fine Arts Museum), the Museo Boli-
ers
Only about 60 percent of the population has satisfactory
variano (Bolivar Museum), the Museo Arte Colonial
housing. Hundreds of thousands of people live in shacks
(Museum of Colonial Art), and the Museo de Ciencias
on the periphery of urban areas, principally around Cara-
Naturales (Natural Science Museum). The Museo "Ta-
cas. Conditions in rural areas are often worse. The high
lavera" in Ciudad Bolívar contains exhibits of pre-Co-
rate of population growth increases the problem. Both
lumbian and colonial artifacts. The Museo "Urdaneta"
public and private sectors are attempting to alleviate the
Histórico Militar (Museum of Military History) is locat-
situation. The Ministry of Housing and the Workers'
ed in Maracaibo.
Bank is responsible for providing additional housing for
Freedom of the press prevails in Venezuela. There are
The
the lower- and middle-income groups. Private building
several important Caracas daily newspapers. El Nacion-
press
firms and mortgage banks also provide financing for
al and El Universal provide both domestic and in-
housing of middle-income groups.
ternational news coverage. Ultimas Noticias and El Mun-
Social conditions. Sanitary conditions are relatively
do are owned by the same organization, which also pub-
good. Epidemic or endemic diseases, such as yellow fever
lishes the magazines Elite, Páginas, and Venezuela Gráfi-
and malaria, which previously decimated the population,
ca. La Religión, a Catholic publication, was founded in
have been virtually eradicated. The most prevalent dis-
1889 and is the nation's oldest newspaper. The Daily
eases are heart disease and intestinal disorders. Average
Journal is an English-language paper. Important news-
life expectancy is 65 years.
papers outside Caracas include El Impulso of Barquisi-
A well-organized trade-union movement has successful-
meto and Panorama of Maracaibo.
ly promoted legislation affecting working conditions. In
All radio and television broadcasting is controlled by
consequence, almost all management and labour relation-
the ministry of communications. The government station
ships are governed by collective wage contracts; periodi-
is the Radio Nacional. There is also one educational
cally renewed, they provide for adjustments to maintain a
station and more than 200 commercial stations. There
balance between wages and the cost of living. Venezuela
are four television stations; one of them, Televisora Na-
is one of the few countries in the world to have kept
cional, is state-owned.
inflation under control. Such inflationary tendencies as do
exist spring from conditions abroad, particularly in the
PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE
United States, with which Venezuela maintains close rela-
Venezuela is experiencing rapid changes in its traditional
tions.
structure. During the past few decades the proportion of
Social
Social divisions depend upon the different levels of per-
the population living in rural areas (about 70 percent in
and
sonal income. The broad social base is composed of the
the 1930s) has diminished, while that living in the urban
economic
majority of Venezuelan families who live in an environ-
concentrations (about 75 percent in 1970) has increased.
divisions
ment of poverty and social hardship. The low-income
This change has been reflected in occupational changes.
group (about 57 percent of the population) includes the
Whereas previously agriculture was the primary activity,
unemployed and the poorly employed-the majority of
today commerce and public services together employ the
68
Venezuela
greater part of the working population, with agriculture
consumption staples; sugar, cacao, tobacco, and hides were
and mining in second place and industry in third.
the principal exports. Spain's European rivals, the French
Economic growth resulting from the exploitation of the
and English in the 16th century and the Dutch in the 17th
country's mineral wealth has made possible a great ex-
century, succeeded in taking over most of Venezuela's
pansion in education; this is of particular importance in
commerce until the early 18th century, when Spain estab-
view of the fact that in the early 1970s about 66 percent
lished a monopoly trading company. The interests of the
of the population was under 24 years old.
latter, however, proved contrary to those of Venezuelan
Prospects for Venezuela's future are directly related to
producers, who forced dissolution of the company during
the success of the programs for economic development,
the 1780s.
particularly those that seek to integrate the poorer section
Venezuelan society during the colonial era was headed
of the population into the consumer society toward which
by agents of the Spanish crown. Royal bureaucrats mo-
the remainder of the population is oriented.
nopolized the top governing posts, and Spanish clergymen
Continued economic and social advance, however, is
dominated the high church offices. Creoles (native-born
primarily dependent upon the maintenance of the de-
whites), however, owned the colony's wealth, principally
mand for and prices of petroleum and petroleum prod-
land, and used it to hold the coloured races in bondage:
ucts.
mestizos (persons of mixed European and Indian ances-
BIBLIOGRAPHY. BANCO CENTRAL DE VENEZUELA, Informe
try) were generally without property, social status, or po-
Económico (annual), a wide analysis of the development of
litical influence; Indians performed forced labour on inte-
every sector of the Venezuelan economy, and Memoria (an-
rior farms or were segregated on marginal lands; Negroes
nual), an overall, present view of the evolution of the na-
were slaves on the coastal plantations. In theory, Venezue-
tional economy, and a comparison with the world economy;
la was governed by the Spanish crown through the Au-
ANTONIO LUIS CARDENAS, Geografía Física de Venezuela,
diencia of Santo Domingo in the 16th and 17th centuries
2nd ed. (1965), a regional study of Venezuela and its natural
elements; LEOPOLDO GARCIA MALDONADO, Educación y Salud
and through the Viceroy of New Granada (at Bogotá)
Pública (1970), a compilation of essays on the various edu-
during the 18th century. In practice, however, the Vene-
cational and sanitary aspects of Venezuela; LEVI MARRERO,
zuelans exercised a great deal of local autonomy through-
Venezuela y sus recursos (1964), an illustrated and descrip-
out the colonial era.
tive geography; MINISTERIO DE AGRICULTURA Y CRIA, Anuario
Venezuela's Creoles readily spearheaded the South
Estadístico Agropecuario (annual), a summary of the statis-
American movement for independence in the early 19th
tics on agriculture; MINISTERIO DE OBRAS PUBLICAS, Atlas de
century. On April 19, 1810, taking advantage of Napo-
Venezuela (1969), the most recent work on cartography re-
leon's conquest of Spain, Caracas Creoles deposed the
lated to Venezuela; JOSE ANTONIO MAYOBRE, Las Inversiones
King's agents and set up a local governing junta. This
Extranjeras en Venezuela (1970), an investigation of the
amount of the foreign investment in the country and an eval-
body, joined by Creole representatives from other parts of
uation of this within the Venezuelan economy; PEDRO SEGNINI
Venezuela, declared independence on July 5, 1811. Subse-
LA CRUZ, Desarrollo y Política (1971), an economic and po-
quently, royalist forces contested for a full decade with
litical analysis of the present situation of Venezuela; ISBELIA
the Creole rebels; the latter, under the leadership of Si-
SEQUERA DE SEGNINI, La Productividad en la Agricultura
món Bolívar, finally succeeded in casting off the Spanish
(1968), a geographic and economic study of the elements af-
yoke in June 1821. Venezuelans thereupon combined with
fecting the productivity of the Venezuelan agriculture; AR-
victorious Creoles of neighbouring Colombia and Ecua-
TURO USLAR PIETRI, La Tierra Venezolana, (1965), literary and
dor to form the new Republic of Gran Colombia, but the
graphic impressions of many cities and regions of the country;
long-time partisans of an autonomous Venezuelan nation,
PABLO VILA et al., Geografía de Venezuela, vol. 1 and 2
(1960-65), a study of the Venezuelan natural, physical, cul-
led by Gen. José Antonio Páez, ultimately prevailed in
tural, and geographical landscapes.
1830 (see also LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN,
(I.S.de S.)
COLONIAL).
Venezuela, 1830-1935. Páez headed Venezuela's first
national government. He dominated Venezuelan politics
The
Venezuela, History of
throughout the period 1830-48; he was president from
Conser-
1831 to 1835 and was elected to another four-year term in
vative
The oldest inhabitants of Venezuela were primitive food-
1839. He established law and order by subduing ambi-
oligarchy,
gathering Indians who arrived in the Late Paleolithic
tious provincial caudillos (military leaders). Páez ruled in
1830-48
Era. There followed, successively, invasions by other
cooperation with the large landholders and leading mer-
food-gathering groups, by community-dwelling Arawaks,
chants of the Conservative Party. They enacted a constitu-
and by warlike, cannibalistic Caribs. The most advanced
tion at Valencia in 1830 that reflected their social and
Venezuelan Indians were the farming tribes of the Andes;
political philosophy-a centralist state, property quali-
nomadic hunting and fishing groups roamed Lake Mara-
fications for voting, death penalty for political crimes,
caibo, the Llanos, and the coast.
freedom of contracts, and continuance of slavery. The
Christopher Columbus discovered what is now Venezue-
church lost its tax immunity and its educational monopo-
la in 1498, during his third voyage to the New World.
ly, and the army was shorn of its autonomy; thus, state
Colonial
The following year, Spanish explorers at Lago de Mara-
supremacy was achieved. Stability thus assured, recon-
Venezuela
caibo observed Indian villagers living in huts built on
struction of the war-torn economy began. Government
piles over the shallow water, and they therefore chris-
finances were put in order, the nation's credit was firmly
tened the region "Venezuela" (little Venice).
established abroad, and amortization of the national debt
The first quarter-century of European contact was limit-
was begun. Construction of new roads promoted interior
ed to the northeast coast and confined to slave hunting
commerce and the export of coffee and cacao.
and pearl fishing; the first permanent Spanish settlement,
In contrast to the troubled times that preceded and fol-
Cumaná, was not made until 1523. In the second quarter
lowed it, the 1830-48 period of Conservative Party domi-
of the 16th century, the centre of activity shifted to the
nation was an era of political stability, economic progress,
northwest region, where the Welser banking house of
and responsible administration. An opposition movement
Augsburg purchased exploration and colonization rights;
began to develop in 1840, however, when Antonio Leoca-
German attempts to find precious metals and to occupy
dio Guzmán, the leading spokesman for dissident mer-
the area failed, however, and Spain repossessed the area
in 1546.
chants and professional men, founded the Liberal Party.
In the latter half of the 16th century, Spanish agricul-
Guzmán's new liberal newspaper, El Venezolano, de-
turalists, using Indian slave labour, began effective col-
manded abolition of slavery, extension of voting rights,
onization. Caracas was founded in 1567, and by 1600
and protection for the debtor classes. Declining demands
more than 20 settlements dotted the Venezuelan Andes
in the world market for Venezuela's agricultural com-
and the Caribbean coast. During the 17th and 18th centu-
modities during the 1840s produced economic difficulties,
ries, the llanos and Maracaibo regions were gradually
which in turn contributed to the increasing opposition to
taken over by various Roman Catholic missionary orders.
the Conservative oligarchy.
The colonial economy was based on agriculture and
The growing political crisis was brought to a head in
stock raising. Maize, beans, and beef were the domestic
1848 by Gen. José Tadeo Monagas. Although elected
Venezuela, History of 69
president as a Conservative in 1846, he soon gravitated
regime, Venezuela floundered in new political chaos as
toward. the Liberals. He intimidated the Conservative
various civilian political groups tried unsuccessfully to
congress and appointed Liberal Party ministers. When
establish responsible representative government. In Octo-
Páez rebelled in 1848, Monagas defeated him and forced
ber 1892 Crespo seized power. His six-year rule was trou-
him into exile.
bled by continued political turmoil, growing economic
The decade 1848-58 was one of dictatorial rule by José
difficulties, and the nation's first serious diplomatic prob-
Tadeo Monagas and his brother, Gen. José Gregorio
lem-concerning a dispute with Great Britain over the
Monagas, who alternated as president during the period.
boundary between eastern Venezuela and western British
Liberalism
Liberal Party laws were passed abolishing slavery, ex-
Guiana. This jungled "no man's land," in which gold was
and
tending suffrage, outlawing capital punishment, and lim-
discovered in 1877, had been the object of alternating
federalism,
iting interest rates, but they were not implemented. Integ-
claims and counterclaims between Venezuela and Great
1848-70
rity in government waned; heavy deficit financing ruined
Britain for more than half a century. Great Britain repeat-
the nation's credit; the economy began to stagnate and
edly refused Venezuela's requests to refer the matter to
decay. In 1857 the Monagas brothers attempted to impose
arbitration, and in 1887 Venezuela suspended diplomatic
a new constitution extending the presidential term from
relations. President Crespo appealed to the United States,
four years to six and removing all restrictions on re-elec-
and, in 1895, U.S. president Grover Cleveland pressured
tion. The Liberal leaders thereupon joined the Conserva-
Britain to arbitrate. An international tribunal handed
tive opposition, and in March 1858 they brought the Mo-
down a decision in 1899 that failed to satisfy Venezuela's
nagas dynasty to an end. This first successful rebellion in
demands.
Venezuela's national history set off five years of revolu-
The turn of the century was a turning point in Venezue-
tionary turmoil between the Liberals and Conservatives.
lan history. In 1899 Gen. Cipriano Castro, a caudillo
Castro and
The issues in these so-called Federalist Wars were, on the
from the Andean state of Táchira, descended with his
Gomez,
Liberal side, federalism, democracy, and social reform
provincial army upon Caracas and seized the presidency.
1899-1935
and, on the Conservative side, centralism and preserva-
For the next 59 years, except for an interlude in 1945-48,
tion of the political and social status quo. The conflicts
five successive military strongmen from Táchira con-
were extremely bloody, and control of the central govern-
trolled the nation. Castro ruled from 1899 to 1909. His
ment changed hands several times. General Páez returned
regime was characterized by administrative tyranny,
in 1861 to restore Conservative hegemony for two years,
financial irresponsibility, almost constant domestic revolt,
but in 1863 final victory went to the Liberals, led by
and frequent foreign intervention. The most serious inter-
Generals Juan Falcón and Antonio Guzmán Blanco.
nal uprising occurred in eastern Venezuela in 1902-03.
A new constitution enacted in 1864 incorporated the
This and subsequent revolts were put down by Gen. Juan
federalist principles of the victors. Local freedoms quickly
Vicente Gómez. Castro's cavalier treatment of foreign
disappeared, however, at the hands of provincial caudi-
businessmen and diplomats and his refusal to pay for
llos. As president in 1864-68, Falcón appeared content to
foreign properties damaged in domestic insurrections re-
allow subordinates, many of them irresponsible, to rule. at
sulted in a British-German-Italian blockade of the Vene-
both the state and national levels. Liberal mismanage-
zuelan coast in 1902-03 and a Dutch attack upon Venezue-
ment and increasing political chaos provided an opportu-
la's navy in 1908. Ill health forced Castro's departure for
nity for the Conservatives, now led by José Tadeo Mona-
Europe for medical attention in 1908, whereupon Gómez
gas, to return to power in 1868. But this merely opened
usurped the presidential powers and did not relinquish
the floodgates of civil war. General Guzmán Blanco ral-
them until his death 27 years later.
lied the Liberals to his cause, overthrew the Conserva-
Gómez was an effective dictator. By manipulating elec-
tives, and assumed power in 1870.
tions, abolishing all organized political activity, and mo-
Guzmán Blanco's triumphal entry into Caracas in April
nopolizing appointive powers, he was able to establish a
Guzmán
1870 halted the political chaos and economic stagnation
completely subservient legislative and judicial structure.
Blanco
that had plagued the nation since 1858. The new president
He muzzled the press and stifled the opposition with an
nser-
and
ive
took the field himself and pacified the country in less than
elaborate spy service, and he used arbitrary arrests, exiles,
garchy,
Crespo,
two years; he thereupon launched a broad program of
long imprisonments, and assassinations to insure his con-
1870-98
30-48
reform and development.
trol. Efficient police and army organizations, modernized
A new constitution in 1872 proclaimed representative
and professionalized by Gómez, maintained his power
government, universal suffrage, and direct election of the
through unrestricted use of force.
president. Economic reforms, such as restoration of the
Political order and liberal concessions attracted foreign
nation's credit by means of new bond issues, liberal con-
petroleum investors. Dutch and British petroleum inter-
cessions to foreign investors, and an ambitious communi-
ests-the Royal Dutch-Shell combine-entered Venezue-
cations and transportation development program, gave
la just before World War I; immediately after the war,
further evidence of Guzmán Blanco's apparent devotion
Standard Oil interests from the United States arrived to
to Liberal Party principles. He ordered establishment of a
compete with the British and Dutch. By 1928 Venezuela
nationwide system of public primary education and liber-
had become the world's leading exporter of oil and was
al state support for secondary and higher education. He
second only to the United States in oil production. The oil
not only abolished ecclesiastical privileges, cut off state
industry brought the nation such benefits as high-paying
subsidies to the Roman Catholic Church, proclaimed reli-
jobs, subsidies to agriculture, expanded government reve-
gious liberty, and legalized civil marriage but he also
nues, and increased domestic and foreign trade. Contin-
confiscated church properties, exiled the archbishop, and
ued high levels of petroleum exports in the 1930s saved
closed the convents.
the economy from collapse during the world depression.
Guzmán Blanco was the popular choice for president in
The extraordinary income from oil provided the where-
the 1873 election. He departed for Europe in 1877, leav-
withal for economic progress. Networks of roads, rail-
ing a puppet successor in charge; but when the opposition
roads, and port facilities were constructed; many new
rebelled, he returned to crush it and resumed the presi-
public buildings were erected; the entire foreign debt was
dency in 1878. The following year he left Gen. Joaquín
paid off; the large domestic debt was drastically reduced.
Crespo in charge. Guzmán Blanco returned from Europe
Yet the oil prosperity was unevenly distributed; most Ven-
in 1886 to serve a final two years in the face of growing
ezuelans continued to live in abject poverty, and their
popular opposition to his policies.
health, housing, and education needs were ignored by the
Unquestionably, Guzmán Blanco's regime had both pos-
state. Meanwhile, Gómez and the top bureaucrats and
itive and negative results for the nation. His admirers
army officers enriched themselves; the dictator became
point to his political and military genius and to his admin-
the nation's largest landholder, biggest stock raiser, and
istrative, economic, educational, and religious reforms.
wealthiest citizen; and he remained master of the political
His detractors emphasize his tyrannical ruling methods,
and economic system until his death, from natural causes,
his financial chicanery, his momumental vanity, his super-
in 1935.
ficial educational reforms, and his unwarranted attacks
Venezuela since 1935. Eleazar López Contreras, who
upon the church. For four years after the end of his
had been war minister under Gómez, succeeded him and
70
Venezuela, History of
served as president until 1941. López restored civil liber-
crats thereupon withdrew from the governing coalition,
ties, sanctioned political activity, and permitted labour to
but they were replaced by the labour-leftist Unión Repub-
Prosperity,
organize during 1936; but he restored the dictatorship in
licana Democrática. The oil and iron-ore industries began
reform, and
1937, when the opposition became too threatening. In
to boom once more, and a new petrochemical industry
military
1938 he inaugurated a three-year development plan that
was launched. Although the return of prosperity ac-
rule,
included construction of public schools and hospitals and
celerated the development and reform programs begun in
1935-58
support for agriculture and private industry.
the early 1960s, growing popular impatience and dissatis-
Isaias Medina Angarita, a fellow Táchira general, was
faction strengthened the opposition Christian Democrats,
president in 1941-45; he continued this development pro-
whose presidential candidate, Rafael Caldera, won the
gram and also restored political liberties. A World War II
1968 elections.
transportation squeeze resulted in a sharp decline in pe-
Caldera's inauguration in 1969 marked the first time in
troleum revenues during 1941 and 1942, and President
Venezuela's history that an incumbent government peace-
Medina revised upward-under a 1943 oil law-the na-
fully surrendered power to an opposition electoral victor.
tion's share in the profits of the petroleum industry. As
The political ideology and domestic programs of the
the transportation shortage eased and new concessions
Christian Democrats were scarcely distinguishable from
were granted, a petroleum boom stimulated an upsurge in
those of Acción Democrática, but Caldera was more
the whole economy during 1944 and 1945.
flexible in his foreign policy. He improved relations with
In October 1945, at the height of the wartime prosperity,
Cuba, the Soviet Union, and the Latin-American military
the Medina administration was suddenly overthrown. This
dictatorships. In the early 1970s, rising economic national-
revolution was the most fundamental in the nation's histo-
ism resulted in Venezuelan majority ownership of foreign
ry; it marked the assumption of power, for the first time,
banks, state control of the natural-gas industry, and a
by a political party (Acción Democrática) that had the
moratorium on the granting of oil concessions.
support of a majority of the Venezuelan people. Party
Pres. Carlos Andrés Pérez Rodriguez, the Acción Demo-
leader Rómulo Betancourt headed a civilian-military jun-
crática victor in the 1973 elections, nationalized the iron-
ta that ruled the nation for 28 months. On July 5, 1947,
ore industry in 1975 and the petroleum industry in 1976.
a new constitution reflecting the labour-leftist philosophy
Following the Arab-Israeli War of 1973, Venezuela, as a
of the party was adopted, and in December 1947 novelist
founding member of the Organization of Petroleum Ex-
Oil wealth
Rómulo Gallegos was elected to the presidency.
porting Countries (OPEC), more than quadrupled the price
of the
Acción Democrática promptly launched a sweeping pro-
of its oil. The result was a spending orgy that attracted
1970s
gram of reform: a fifty-fifty tax decree assured the nation
a wave of South American immigrants, increased food
of at least half the profits of the petroleum industry;
and luxury imports, produced growing waste and corrup-
labour was encouraged to organize and to bargain hard
tion, and created a privileged economic elite while doing
for its rights; broad government support was granted for
little to alleviate the poverty of the masses. In an attempt
health, housing, and education and for agricultural and
to reduce the domestic inflationary effects of increased oil
industrial development. These democratic reforms pro-
revenues, Venezuela set up a Latin-American development
voked strong opposition from conservative forces that
fund to assist the country's less fortunate neighbours.
culminated in a November 1948 military coup. The new
Popular dissatisfaction with government management of
ruling junta was headed by Lt. Col. Carlos Delgado
the new oil wealth resulted in another Christian Demo-
Chalbaud and Maj. Marcos Pérez Jiménez; two years
cratic presidential victory in 1978 by Luis Herrera Cam-
later the former was assassinated, and the latter became
pins.
Venezuela's new strongman.
Thus, from 1951 to 1957 the nation was again controlled
BIBLIOGRAPHY. R. BETANCOURT, Venezuela: política y pe-
by a Táchira military dictator. Pérez Jiménez outlawed
tróleo (1956; Venezuela: Oil and Politics, 1979), a democratic
reformer's view of 20th-century politics and economics; W.
political activity, crushed the labour movement, closed
BURGGRAFF, Civil Military Relations in Venezuela, 1935-1959
down the universities, and muzzled the press. Acción
(1967), the best account of the 20th-century role of the
Democrática's nationwide reform programs were aban-
military; J. GIL FORTOUL, Historia constitucional de Venezuela,
doned in favour of modernizing Caracas and enriching the
4th ed., 3 vol. (1953-54), a standard work on 19th-century
dictator and his army associates. Finally, popular opposi-
constitutions; B. FRANKEL, Venezuela y los Estados Unidos
tion grew so great that the navy and air force joined to
(1977), a fine account of 19th-century diplomatic relations;
overthrow Pérez Jiménez in January 1958. A civilian-
R.L. GILMORE, Caudillism and Militarism in Venezuela, 1810-
military junta ran the country for one year, after which
1910 (1964), a discussion of the evolution from military per-
sonalism to military professionalism; F. GONZALEZ GUINAN,
Rómulo Betancourt was elected president.
Historia contemporánea de Venezuela, 15 vol. (1909-25), an
The second Betancourt administration (1959-64) was
encyclopaedic factual treatment of the 19th century; E.
considerably more moderate than the first. This time,
LIEUWEN, Petroleum in Venezuela (1954), a detailed history of
Acción Democrática, in contrast to its earlier exclusivism,
the industry, 1907-50, Venezuela, 2nd ed. (1965), a general
cooperated with the next largest party, the middle-of-the-
survey of the history, society, economy, and political system;
road Christian Democrats, and set up a coalition govern-
J.D. MARTZ, Acción Democrática: Evolution of a Modern Politi-
Democracy
ment. This government launched programs designed to
cal Party in Venezuela (1966), a sympathetic history and anal-
and
modernize agriculture, develop domestic industry, im-
ysis, 1941-64; G. MORON, Historia de Venezuela, 3rd ed. (1961;
Eng. trans., A History of Venezuela, trans. by J. STREET, 1963),
economic
prove the nation's health, and eliminate illiteracy. In 1960
an objective study on the 19th century, subjective on the
national-
it passed an agrarian reform law intended to provide
20th; M. PICON-SALAS et al., Venezuela independiente, 1810-1960
ism, 1959
farms for all rural families. In 1962 it inaugurated a
(1962), fine essays on the evolution of society, culture, the
to the
national steel industry, the Siderúrgica del Orinoco, to
economy, and political system; J. SISO MARTINEZ, Historia de
present
process part of the vast iron-ore deposits exploited by
Venezuela, 5th ed. (1956), the best one-volume general histo-
U.S. companies under concessions granted in 1950.
ry in Spanish; F. TUGWELL, The Politics of Oil in Venezuela
Despite broad developmental progress, the Betancourt
(1975), essential for an understanding of oil policy.
(E.Li.)
administration was troubled by political unrest and eco-
nomic crisis. The armed forces launched several unsuc-
cessful coups, and civilian elements both on the right and
Venice
left resisted the moderate reform programs. To compli-
A city that is uniquely wedded to the sea, Venice is a
cate matters, a sharp depression occurred in 1960-63. In
major seaport of northern Italy, capital of the province of
foreign affairs, Venezuela severed diplomatic relations
Venezia and the region of Veneto, and former centre of a
with the Dominican Republic in 1960 (after Dominican
maritime republic whose economic and political power
agents attempted to assassinate Betancourt) and broke
was felt throughout the Mediterranean world for more
relations with Cuba in 1961 (following repeated Cuban
than 1,000 years. Although other cities are built on is-
attempts to aid the Venezuelan Communists).
lands, are also laced with canals, and are rich in art and
The 1963 presidential elections, held in an atmosphere of
architecture, although other cities have been world pow-
great political tension, were narrowly won by the Acción
ers, there is only one Venice. Perhaps no other city of the
Democrática candidate Raúl Leoni. The Christian Demo-
West has so long and so strongly appealed to the roman-