Short Research and Writing Assignment

Source 1:

This analysis by the Council on Foreign Relations is an article written by 3 senior fellows in the subject of Latin America studies published in 2013. The article generally focuses on Chavez’s remarking that he was a transitional figure in Venezuelan history and as well as Latin America’s. His 12 years included increase of social inclusion, a political consensus for democratic means, and foreign policy of independence. The policy of independence emphasized the relationship with the United States. The article speaks of Chavez’s “unfulfilled dreams” but clearly argues that they wouldn’t have been attainable because of cost and cooperation of other countries in the region. The pipeline of the south, a South American Development Bank, continental- scale housing and highways would be included in this. The article also includes accomplishments by Chavez and gives him partial credit to the development in the institutional structure. “ALBA”, the 9 member association of Bolivarian countries, which is estimated to continue to influence the countries surrounding. A great deal of emphasis economically is put on the Cuban- Venezuelan relationship and of course, provoking the United States.

Revolutionaries, such as Chavez are very complex and have great impacts on society. Chavez was able to accomplish all that he did because of the chaos that he more or less contributed to with his “Bolivarian movement”. There are many mixed feelings toward Chavez, especially when western media has a prominent voice rather than the voices of South America that benefited from his leadership. Considering the state of many Latin American nations and the American influence in them, Chavez had the right idea to begin to move away from the US relations.

Sweig, J. Rockefeller, D & N. “Analysis: Hugo Chavez Saw Himself as a                         Transitional Figure in    Venezuelan History.” CFR.org. Council on Foreign Relations, 6 Mar. 2013. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.

Source 2:

Another article taken from Council on Foreign Relations regarding the future of Venezuela after the death of Chavez and the fate of the “Bolivarian Social Revolution”.”Venezuela’s Challenging Next Chapter”  addresses challenges that will need to be addressed will be: control of the countries oil reserves and relations with allies within the region and world wide. Chavez successor Maduro, only won the election with 50% votes. Analysts propose a very difficult administration for Maduro because of the various  issues currently in Venezuela such as, crime rates and domestic political visions and nebulous relationships worldwide. Predicaments about Maduro lead to a downward upcoming few years and that Maduro will not last his full 6 years in term. Mostly, the future challenges seem to be directed towards economic means.

There are many narratives of leaders such as Chavez tell a profile but do not predict the impacts that will continue to occur over time. Charismatic leaders such as Chavez have immense impacts on a population that can be good or bad. The following leader will have difficulties dealing with destruction that was created before him or deal with the pressure put on him. In Maduro’s case, there was immense pressure as he was Chavez’s successor and has lost much support since his election in 2013. Currently, there are protests in Venezuela due to high levels of violence, inflation and lack of general goods. But his government is under surveillance by UN and Amnesty International for crimes against humanity.

Lee, Brianna. “Issue Guide: Venezuela’s Challenging Next Chapter.” CFR.org. Council on Foreign Relations, 12 Apr. 2013. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.

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