Venezuela
Venezuela was one of three countries that emerged from the collapse of Gran Colombia in 1830 (the others being Ecuador and New Granada, which became Colombia). For most of the first half of the 20th century, Venezuela was ruled by generally benevolent military strongmen, who promoted the oil industry and allowed for some social reforms. Democratically elected governments have held sway since 1959. Hugo CHAVEZ, president since 1999, has promoted a controversial policy of "democratic socialism," which purports to alleviate social ills while at the same time attacking globalization and undermining regional stability. Current concerns include: a weakening of democratic institutions, political polarization, a politicized military, drug-related violence along the Colombian border, increasing internal drug consumption, overdependence on the petroleum industry with its price fluctuations, and irresponsible mining operations that are endangering the rain forest and indigenous peoples.
Languages & Population
Approximate Population: 26,023,528 (July 2007 est.)
Nationality (Noun): Venezuelan(s)
Nationality (Adjective): Venezuelan
Official Language(s): Spanish
Major Languages Spoken: Spanish, Yanomami
Country Facts
Country Name (long form): Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
Country Name (short form): Venezuela
Country Name (local long form): Republica Bolivariana de Venezuela
Country Name (local short form): Venezuela
Name of Capital: Caracas
UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
Countries Near by, and Bordering Venezuela: Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Brazil, Colombia, Grenada, Guyana
Land Area: 882050 sq km
Water Area: 30000 sq km
Comparative Area: slightly more than twice the size of California
Total Land Boundry: 4,993 km
Coastline: 2,800 km
National Holiday: Independence Day, 5 July (1811)
International Phone Code: 58
Currency Code: bolivar (VEB)
Internet Country Code: .ve
US Embassy Location: Calle F con Calle Suapure, Urbanizacion Colinas de Valle Arriba, Caracas 1080
US Embassy Mailing Address: P. O. Box 62291, Caracas 1060-A; APO AA 34037
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