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Christopher Columbus was on his third trip to the new world when he spotted enezuela. This was the first time a European stepped on South American mainland soil. He named the land Isla de Garcia. He thought the land was so pretty that he was in the Garden of Eden.

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In 1811, colonists of Venezuela started protesting the Spanish rule because of taxes and lack of power. Napolean invaded Spain making it the perfect time since their governing in America was limited. Spain ignored the demands for independence causing more than a decade long war.

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After declaring independence, Venezuela was attacked and invaded by Spanish troops. They battled for many years and there was a lot of bloodshed. Most believe the war could have been finished sooner since the three main war leaders did not acknowledge each others superiority.

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Leadership was needed during and after the war. Simon Bolivar, one of the three war leaders, stepped up and became the first president of Gran Columbia, a nation including Venezuela. During his presidency there were disagreements and Venezuela chose to secede from Gran Colombia.

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Under the rule of dictator Gomez, Venezuela became one of the largest oil exports. Now it is known Venezuela holds 20% of the worlds oil exports.

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While campaigning for presidency, Chavez promised things such as lowering poverty rates. His approval rate was at 80% by the end of his first year as president. He kept true to his promises by managing more social programs and redistributing oil wealth.