CultureGramsTM Bolivarian Republic of World Edition 2019

European to explore the area. The Spanish soon began BACKGROUND conquering offshore islands and coastal regions. They named the area Venezuela ("little Venice") because the coastal Land and Climate homes were built on stilts, reminding them of Venice, Italy. Venezuela is a tropical land located at the top of South , the capital, was founded in 1567. America. It is about the same size as Nigeria, or slightly The Spanish Crown, which claimed the territory, larger than the U.S. states of Texas and Oklahoma combined. controlled Venezuela through the 18th century. After various The country is divided roughly into four geographic zones: failed revolts by American-born Spanish elite, a congress west, central, east, and south. The Andes Mountains dominate formed and declared independence in 1811. This began a the west, where the highest peak, Pico Bolívar, rises 16,427 10-year struggle to create a truly free and united country. feet (5,007 meters) above sea level. The central zone includes Finally, in 1821, the forces of Simón Bolívar were victorious the northern coast and Venezuela's largest cities. To the east at the Battle of Carabobo, and a republic was established. The of the Orinoco River is Los Llanos (“the plains”), a region republic (called ) contained Venezuela, occupying one-third of the country; jungles and high plateaus Ecuador, and Colombia. The republic dissolved in 1830, and are common to the west. Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in Venezuela became an independent country. the world, at 3,212 feet (979 meters), is in southeastern Post-Independence Venezuela. In the far south is a reserve for the country's Venezuela experienced instability and dictatorships for many Yanomami tribes. Covering 32,000 square miles (almost years. The 20th century began under the dictator Cipriano 83,000 square kilometers), the area is off-limits to farmers, Castro. He was deposed by Juan Vicente Gómez, his vice miners, and all non-Yanomami settlers. president, who ruled as a brutal dictator until his death in There are two seasons in most of Venezuela: wet and dry. 1935. More political instability and military coups followed. The rainy season is from May to November. Temperatures A freely elected president came to power in 1958, and average from 70 to 85°F (21–29°C), but the mountains can democratic elections became the norm. For a time, Venezuela experience cool temperatures, and some Andean peaks are was the most stable South American country and was also one snowcapped year-round. Earthquakes are not infrequent. of the wealthiest in the region. It has some of the world's largest-known oil reserves, and it benefited from high oil History prices in the 1970s and 1980s. Early Inhabitants and Colonization Carlos Andrés Pérez, who became president in 1989, Before the arrival of Columbus, Venezuela was inhabited by a introduced a controversial economic austerity plan to address number of indigenous groups, including the Caracas, Arawak, the plummeting price of oil and rising foreign debt. The and Cumanagotos. In 1498, Columbus became the first reforms boosted gross domestic product, but the wealth was

1 TM CultureGrams Venezuela concentrated in the hands of a few. Poverty, inflation, and Population unemployment increased, and violent opposition soon rose to Venezuela is one of the most urbanized countries in South challenge Pérez, who was impeached in 1993 and later America. The Caracas metropolitan area has nearly three imprisoned for misusing government security funds. Elections million inhabitants. Venezuela's other major cities include in 1993 brought a former president, , to office. Maracaibo, Valencia, Maracay, and Barquisimeto. Since Under Caldera's leadership, austerity measures and high 2014, an economic collapse and a political crisis have forced inflation sparked public protests, and the standard of living at least four million to flee the country, with for most Venezuelans declined dramatically. many going to neighboring Colombia. Rule of Chávez In general, the population is a racial mixture, and about Record-low oil prices in the late 1990s deepened Venezuela's half of the population is of mixed European and indigenous or economic crisis. Claiming to represent the needs of the poor, black heritage. The next largest group is white and of Hugo Chávez was elected president by a large majority in the European (mostly Spanish, Portuguese, or Italian) descent. A December 1998 elections. Chávez, who had led a coup small percentage of the population is black or indigenous. attempt in 1992, began to transform Venezuela's political Major indigenous groups include the Goajiro, who live in the system after coming to office, promising complete social west, and the Yanomami, who live in the south. reform. Under a new constitution in 1999, Chávez dissolved the bicameral parliament, established a single National Language Assembly, and gave greater powers to the president. Spanish is the official language and is spoken by almost Chávez's reforms increasingly polarized the country and everyone, with the exception of some indigenous people led to violent anti-government protests. In 2002, a military living in remote areas. These indigenous groups speak a coup temporarily ousted Chávez, but he returned to power variety of languages. The Spanish spoken in Venezuela is two days later. Political struggles continued with a nine-week known for its many unique words and phrases. Chévere general strike that paralyzed the nation and with a subsequent means "very well" or "cool." Estar pelando (to be peeled) and referendum on Chávez's rule. Chávez survived the strike and estar limpio (to be clean) can also mean "to be broke," or out referendum and was elected by a wide margin to a third term of money. Ponerse las pilas (to insert batteries) means "to in 2006. After his victory, Chávez proceeded with his agenda, wise up." The diminutive form, expressed with -ito at the end which included nationalizing sectors of the of a word, is often used to show affection. English classes are telecommunications and energy industries and land required in high school. redistribution. In a 2009 referendum, voters abolished term limits for elected officials, paving the way for Chávez to run Religion for reelection in October 2012, when he won his fourth term. Religious freedom is guaranteed by the constitution. Still, the Chávez, however, died shortly thereafter, in March 2013. Roman Catholic Church has historically had a large voice in The Maduro Presidency government. Catholicism is deeply ingrained in the culture, In April 2013, Nicolás Maduro, Chávez's vice president, and about 96 percent of the population is Roman Catholic. narrowly won presidential elections. Maduro inherited a While many Catholics do not attend church services spiraling economy, caused in part by mismanagement, regularly, most profess some faith in God, the Catholic saints, corruption, and debt. When Maduro printed more money, and the Virgin Mary, and some display images of them in inflation soared, making basic goods unaffordable for many their homes. Protestant and other Christian faiths are Venezuelans. Maduro then implemented price controls and a becoming more prevalent. Santería is growing in popularity in fixed exchange rate, causing shortages of food, medicine, and Caracas and coastal towns; it fuses ideas from African other necessities. Crime and murder rates subsequently religions with tenets of Catholicism and involves worshipping soared. individuals who have lived and helped people in Venezuela, Recently, violent anti-government protests have become died in the country, and subsequently become saints. Rural frequent, but Maduro has cracked down on dissent, with people tend to be more devoted to their faith than are urban thousands of arrests. Although Maduro won reelection in residents. 2018, opposition and National Assembly leader Juan Guaidó declared himself interim president in January 2019, claiming General Attitudes that Maduro's inauguration was illegitimate because the 2018 Most Venezuelans take great pride in their country and the election was rigged. After his announcement, Guaidó was heroes of the independence movement. The South American formally recognized as interim president by many countries, liberator Simón Bolívar was Venezuelan, and while he is including the United States. Nevertheless, Maduro has honored in many other nations, he is a national treasure to refused to step down and continues to maintain the support of Venezuela. Most cities have a Plaza Bolívar that occupies a the nation's powerful military. Today, Venezuela is in crisis, block near the city center. It is considered rude to behave and at least four million people have fled the country, as disrespectfully in that plaza or to refer negatively to Bolívar. conditions have become more desperate. Venezuelans tend to admire honesty, generosity, and a good sense of humor. Their fondness of talking, joking, laughing, and spontaneity often creates a party-like THE PEOPLE atmosphere wherever they are. Venezuelans are usually forthcoming and are not afraid to talk about their personal

2 TM CultureGrams Venezuela problems with others. Schedules are usually loosely adhered include Hasta luego (Until later),Nos vemos (We'll see you), to, and arriving a few minutes late is not offensive. Scheduled and Chao (Good-bye).Adiós (Good-bye) is rarely used as it events may last longer than expected. People do not generally implies a permanent farewell. become impatient if required to wait for service at businesses, The elderly and other respected people may be addressed banks, or other public institutions. (especially in small cities) asDon (for men) or Doña (for Most Venezuelans are proud of the beauty of their country women), followed by the first name. Acquaintances and and of Venezuelan women; they may proudly point out that professionals are addressed by title (Doctor,Señor,Señora, winners of international beauty contests are frequently from etc.), usually followed by the surname. Friends often address Venezuela. They also typically welcome and are one another by affectionate nicknames—for example, el accommodating to tourists. Gordito (the Chubby One) or la Flaquita (the Skinny One). Loss of prosperity over the last decade has caused Venezuela's once relatively large middle class to have to Gestures focus on making ends meet. As the situation in Venezuela has Venezuelans generally use their hands during conversation to become more difficult, people are beginning to lose some of communicate or emphasize a point. They may also use a the optimism they long had about being able to work out their gesture to communicate without speaking. For example, one current problems. Nevertheless, many maintain a sense of can ask the price of an item or request payment by rubbing humor in the face of difficulties and often engage in dark the thumb and index finger together while rotating the palm humor about problems. A common saying goes,Al mal up. It is courteous to maintain eye contact while conversing. tiempo, buena cara (In bad weather, put on a good face). When sitting, a person is expected not to slouch or prop the Neighbors tend to watch out for each other in times of feet up on any object. Pointing with the index finger is distress. considered rude; motioning with the entire hand is more polite. Passing between conversing individuals or interrupting Personal Appearance a conversation is also rude; in such circumstances, one is Venezuelans tend to be quite fashion conscious and take great expected to sayCon permiso (“Excuse me”; literally, “With care of their appearance; urban people dress in current permission”). People often offer their seats to the elderly on European styles. Fashion often takes precedence over public transportation. comfort; for example, stylish leather jackets or boots may be worn in hot weather. Wearing expensive brand-name clothing Visiting is considered important. Professional men and women wear Venezuelans enjoy visiting friends and relatives. Friends may suits or more casual clothing, which is nearly always neat and visit unannounced, and such visits can last two hours or more. clean. In Caracas, business dress tends to be more formal. In People typically invite only close friends to their homes; general, women wear tight-fitting clothing and high heels, business contacts and other visitors usually are invited to dine while men don jeans and casual shoes. Shorts and swimwear at a restaurant. Venezuelans are careful to provide for their are worn only in urban recreation areas and at the beach. In guests. When visitors arrive at a home, business, or office, some parts of the country, people still wear traditional hats they often are served acafecito (thick black coffee) in a very and alpargatas (espadrilles, or shoes made from natural small cup. This is a gesture of hospitality and friendship. fibers). Native peoples may wear European or traditional Polite discussion usually precedes any business matters. In dress or a combination of both. the home, hosts may offer guests refreshments in addition to coffee. Offering a tray of various hot appetizers is a popular tradition. It is polite for guests to inquire about the health of CUSTOMS AND COURTESIES the host's family members. As a guest, one should acknowledge each person upon one's arrival and departure. Greetings Hosts generally do not expect gifts from visitors. For men, a firm handshake is a common greeting and parting gesture among acquaintances and strangers, and it may be Eating accompanied by a pat on the back. Women exchange greeting People often purchase breakfast or brunch from nearby and parting kisses on the cheek with both men and women, no bakeries or eat a light meal of cereal or arepas (flat cornmeal matter how close the relationship. Among close friends and patties), coffee, and chocolate milk. Lunch is the main meal family, both men and women greet with an abrazo(a full of the day, usually consisting of a carbohydrate, protein, embrace while patting each other on the back) as well. vegetables, and juice. Dinner is light, perhaps including a During conversation, most people in Venezuela stand sandwich or arepas and juice. Families traditionally eat closer than do people in the United States, and backing away together for midday and evening meals; however, this custom is usually improper. However, people in the Andes region varies by region. During the week, families in big cities rarely often stand farther apart than other Venezuelans. Common eat midday meals together because of work and school greetings include Buenos días (Good morning),Buenas tardes schedules, but they pack large lunches to eat at school and (Good afternoon), andBuenas noches (Good evening) or work and still often gather for large family lunches on simplyBuenas any time of the day. Young people generally Sundays. use the casual Hola (Hi). Greetings often include polite Parents usually sit at opposite ends of the dinner table. inquiries about a person's health. Common parting phrases Some Venezuelans eat in the continental style, with the fork

3 TM CultureGrams Venezuela in the left hand and the knife in the right. Others use the style About half of women are formally employed, but few more common in the United States, with the fork in the right employers and managers are women. Even so, women today hand unless the knife is picked up to cut something. Before work as doctors, as judges, and in other professions that were beginning a meal, Venezuelans say to each other Buen previously closed to them. Those who lack access to provecho (“Enjoy your meal,” roughly equivalent to Bon education may work as road sweepers, buhoneros (street appétit). When a person is finished, he or she places the vendors), or seamstresses, or they may run small businesses utensils together or in an “X” at the center of the plate. out of their homes, selling prepared food or other goods. Dining out, especially on business, is common. In Women tend to be the most politically active members of restaurants, the bill usually includes a service charge (10 their communities; however, only 17 percent of lawmakers percent), but patrons are expected to leave an additional tip of are women. Women face sexual harassment in the workplace; perhaps 5 percent of the bill. Roadside food stands are domestic violence and rape are fairly common and often go popular and serve hamburgers, hot dogs, andpepitos (bread unpunished. with grilled chicken or sliced meat, served with onions). Garlic, tomato, bacon sauces, andsalsa de ajo (sauce made Housing from garlic, mayonnaise, and vinegar) are popular additions Traditional to these dishes. Preserved Spanish colonial homes can be found in major cities, especially those located in the interior of the country. Such buildings are spacious, with large rooms, central patios, LIFESTYLE and balconies. They were built using bahareque, a technique of adding mud to bamboo walls. Huts built on stilts, called Family palafitos, or churuatas, are found along the shores of Structure Maracaibo Lake and are inhabited by indigenous Goajiro. Educated urban couples tend to have one or two children, Economic Circumstance while poorer urban couples generally have three or four; rural Housing varies dramatically with class. The upper classes live families may include as many as five or six children. Many in spacious (at least four bedroom, four bathroom) homes or births in Venezuela take place outside of traditional marriage in luxury apartments that include swimming pools and other relationships. amenities. A guachiman (watchman) is often hired to protect Family ties are strong, and most families are close-knit, these homes from thieves. gathering for holidays and aiding each other during times of Middle-class families usually live in houses or tall medical or economic distress. If members of a family are apartment buildings within well-organized communities affluent, they customarily share their wealth with called urbanizaciones. Houses tend to be two storeys. The less-fortunate relatives. Households commonly include upstairs is considered the private domain of the family and members of the extended family, usually grandparents. The includes bedrooms (usually three), while the living room, elderly are treated with great respect, and grandmothers are kitchen, and other rooms used for socializing are found on the especially revered. They often pass on religious and moral main floor. Because hospitality is so important to values to their grandchildren. Venezuelans, most homes contain a room reserved for visitors Parents and Children on the first floor as well. Interior walls are often white and Children generally are responsible for making their beds, decorated with pieces of art. Homes are usually made of washing the dishes, and helping to care for younger siblings. cement and brick, and it is not uncommon for them to be Children typically live with their parents until they have protected with alarm systems and large fences. graduated from college and can afford to live on their own, In urban areas, lower classes live in barrios, sometimes remaining in the parental home even after they neighborhoods containing unstable dwellings (called ranchos) have married and had children of their own. built of cardboard and zinc and plastic sheeting. Over time, In turn, grown children are expected to care for their aging owners fortify their dwellings with bricks, andranchos are parents. One saying goes, Vive de tus padres hasta que often stacked on top of one another. They tend to be painted puedas vivir de tus hijos (Live off your parents until you can bright colors, such as orange, green, yellow, and red. Inside, live off your children), and some parents believe that having they are decorated with posters and family photographs and more children will ensure better care in their old age. equipped with stereo systems, televisions, and DVD players. Gender Roles The contrast between rich and poor is especially stark in Traditionally, the father was the economic provider for the Caracas, whereranchos located in the hills surround the family, and the responsibility for raising the children and modern city. Poor rural inhabitants lack basic services like managing the household traditionally rested with the mother. electricity and water and their homes are vulnerable to natural Today, more couples are sharing responsibilities, as an disasters such as landslides. increasing number of women work outside the home, Ownership especially in Caracas. Children are often cared for by Venezuelans value and work toward home ownership, even if grandmothers, or they may spend time in daycare centers. they can only afford to build a second floor on an extended Family decisions—such as which school children will attend, family member’s home or a small house. Renting tends to be where to live, and which car to buy—are usually made expensive. jointly.

4 TM CultureGrams Venezuela Dating and Marriage friends at the hospital or at home to drink rum or whisky in a Dating and Courtship celebration called tomarse los meados (literally, “drinking the Dating and courtship traditions in Venezuela are similar to baby’s urine”). Children are often named after a saint and those in other Western countries. Young people socialize with celebrate their saint's day as well as their actual birthday. classmates or neighbors, first in groups and eventually in Another tradition is to name a male child after his father. couples. Dating usually beings around age 13 or 14. Couples Baptism is one of the most important ceremonies in a under 18 years old usually attend movies or private parties on Venezuelan's life. Baptism dresses are passed down through dates, while those who are older and have more money meet the generations of a family. Godparents give their godchild a at bars or go out to nicer restaurants for meals. rosary, prayer book, or medal of a saint for the child's baptism Most Venezuelans marry in their twenties. Before and First Communion. All of these events are celebrated with proposing, a man is expected to ask permission (pedir la large parties attended by extended family members. mano) of his expected father-in-law. Engagements generally Milestones last around a year, during which wedding and honeymoon The fiesta de quince (15th birthday party) celebrates a girl's plans are made. Before a couple marries, friends organize transition into womanhood. A reception is held that includes bachelor and bachelorette parties for them. lots of food and music. The most important moment is when Marriage in Society the young woman dances the waltz with her father. Though forming families remains important to Venezuelans, Venezuelans are legally considered adults at age 18, when an increasing number of couples choose to live together rather they are allowed to work, purchase alcohol, vote, and join the than marry, in part to avoid the expense of formal wedding military. ceremonies. After three years of cohabitation, couples may Death register for a common-law marriage, which affords them all After a person dies, the deceased is dressed in his or her best the rights of formal marriage. It is not uncommon for single clothes and a viewing takes place at a funeral home, where women to raise children on their own with the help of their family and friends stay all night, praying for their loved one's families, as many fathers do not recognize children who result soul to reach heaven. Coffee and other beverages are served. from informal unions. Divorce has become more common A mass and burial follow. At the gravesite, coffins are and does not carry a social stigma; divorced individuals often traditionally decorated with wreaths brought by friends and remarry. Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in relatives. Flowers are also sent to the home of the deceased. Venezuela. Meals brought to the home after a death are welcomed Weddings gestures of support. Most weddings include two marriage ceremonies: a civil Many families prepare a small altar in their homes ceremony for legal recognition and an optional religious dedicated to the deceased that includes flowers, rosaries, and ceremony. The ceremonies may be separated by one day or photos of the dead; candles are lit on these altars to guide the many according to the couple’s preference. Religious soul on the path to heaven. In the past, immediate family ceremonies are an important part of the Venezuelan culture members customarily wore black or white for a year to mourn because of the Roman Catholic influence. the loved one. Frequent visits are made to the cemetery to A first reception, to which only the closest 15 or 20 family pray and put flowers on the grave. members and friends are invited, is held after the civil marriage and includes snacks, drinks, and music played by a Diet DJ. The second reception, following the religious ceremony, Common foods in Venezuela include pasta, rice, beans, is a big party with as many as 150 guests. In years past, this plantains, white cheese, chicken, potatoes, and fish. Corn is reception was paid for by the parents of both the bride and the basis of many dishes, and fried foods are popular. One groom, but today it is more often paid for by the father of the favorite is thearepa , a thick pancake made from white corn bride. The newlyweds initiate the dancing with a waltz, after flour that is fried or baked; sometimes they are filled with which the guests join in and dance to Latin music and other butter, meat, and cheese.Hallacas are similar to arepas but popular styles. Appetizers are followed by a large dinner. are stuffed with stewed meat, potatoes, olives, raisins, and Traditionally, it is considered good luck for the newlyweds to spices; they are especially popular at Christmastime. Cast iron sneak out at the end of the party without saying good-bye to skillets called budares are used to cookarepas , in addition to their guests. cachapas (pancakes made from corn dough) andcasabe (thin If couples can afford it, they travel abroad to another Latin flatbread made from bitter cassava). Casseroles, meat pies, American country or to Europe for a honeymoon. Others stay meatloaf, and stews are well liked, although rising prices have in Venezuela, spending time at the beach or in a diminished meat's popularity somewhat. Puntatrasera is a tourist-oriented city. favorite tender steak.Pabellón criollo consists of black beans, rice, shredded meat, plantains, andarepas and is considered Life Cycle by many to be the national dish. Birth In most cities, open-air markets provide a large variety of Baby showers are typically thrown for pregnant women. Most tropical fruits and fresh vegetables. Popular fruits include babies are born in public hospitals or in private clinics, which mangoes,lechoza (papaya), bananas, watermelon, and are only affordable for wealthier Venezuelans. To mark the coconuts. These may be eaten or made into jugos de fruta birth, parents gather with the baby’s godparents and close (fruit juices), which are sold atbodegas (corner stores).

5 TM CultureGrams Venezuela Quesillo (similar to flan) is a popular desert. Hot chocolate is Pietri. Professional artisans produce crafts such as canoes, also common, particularly in the cooler Andean states. saddles, and musical instruments.

Recreation Holidays Sports Official public holidays in Venezuela include New Year's Baseball is very popular in Venezuela, and several Day (1 January), Carnaval(two days before Ash Venezuelan baseball players have been hired by major league Wednesday), Ash Wednesday, Easter (Thursday–Sunday), teams in the United States. Children play baseball in yards, at Declaration of Independence Day (19 April), Day of Workers parks, or on the street. Young children lacking proper (1 May), Battle of Carabobo (24 June), Independence Day (5 equipment may playchapita , a type of baseball in which a July), Simón Bolívar's Birthday (24 July), Day of Indigenous bottle cap is hit with a broomstick. Resistance (formerly Columbus Day, 12 October), Christmas Basketball is the next most widely played sport. Soccer is Eve (24 December), Christmas (25 December), and New much less popular than in other Latin American countries. Year's Eve (31 December). Venezuelans enjoy watching horse racing and bullfighting, Mother’s Day though the latter is decreasing in popularity. Fishing, Mother’s Day, celebrated on the second Sunday in May, is swimming, cycling, and tennis are common participation one of Venezuela’s most important holidays, as the culture sports.Bolas criollas is a well-loved game similar to lawn deeply values the contributions of women to their families. bowling. Many women enjoy walking, cycling, and playing On this day, families gather for lunch, and women receive softball. gifts from their children, grandchildren, other relatives, and Leisure friends in honor of the significant role mothers play in For entertainment, Venezuelans like to go dancing, eat at Venezuelan society. restaurants, watch movies, or attend cultural events. Friends The Christmas Season often get together to preparesancochos (beef or chicken In some areas of the country, a popular Christmas tradition is stews) or to barbecue. Playing dominoes and visiting are La Paradura del Niño, in which a baby Jesus figure is placed favorite leisure activities.Telenovelas (soap operas) have a on a large silk handkerchief and carried in a procession large following, particularly among women. Cockfighting is throughout the town. Members of the procession stop at both a popular hobby and form of entertainment in many neighbors’ houses to singaguinaldos (traditional Christmas regions. songs) and enjoy refreshments. On Christmas Eve, extended People enjoy dancing to merengue, salsa, and reggaeton families gather for an elaborate dinner, and people often (dance music that combines Latin rhythms and hip-hop). On attend Mass. At midnight, people place a baby Jesus figurine weekends, young people enjoy gathering in public places in their pesebre (nativity scene) to represent his birth. such as gas stations, where they talk, listen to music from the On 6 January, children receive presents from the Three stereo systems in their cars, and drink alcohol. Children enjoy Kings (calledLos Reyes Magos), which they open at playing with wooden tops, yo-yos, and marbles. Flying kites midnight. In the Andes region of the country, on New Year’s is popular, especially during Carnaval. Children also spend Eve, a figure representing the old year (such as an unpopular time on their computers and playing video games. The elderly politician) is made with old clothes and burned to usher in the gather at friends’ houses to play card games such as canasta. new year. Vacation Other Holidays and Festivals Venezuelans typically vacation during summer months, when Carnaval is celebrated most in eastern Venezuela, where schools are closed. Going to the beaches or the mountains is a water fights, parades, dancing in the streets, and other common vacation activity. At these locations and others, activities are common. DuringCarnaval , people dress up in people enjoy staying inposadas (family-run guesthouses), costumes and children throw water balloons or eggs at which are more personable and cheaper than hotels. Those passersby in the street. In some cities, aCarnaval queen is who can afford to travel internationally enjoy visiting the chosen at a beauty pageant. Many families vacation at the United States, especially Florida. beach or in the mountains during the week preceding Easter, which is calledSemana Santa (Holy Week), and during The Arts August. Venezuelan art is a blend of European and indigenous Towns and cities hold annual ferias (festivals) honoring influences. Llaneros (similar to cowboys) are often depicted, their local patron saint. The three most important ferias and the joropo (traditional music of Los Llanos, or "the include the Feria de San Sebastian, in San Cristóbal; the Feria plains") is the national dance, usually accompanied by del Sol, in Mérida; and the Feria de la Chinita, in Maracaibo. maracas (rattles made of gourds) and thecuatro (a small Festivities include bullfighting, street dances, craft exhibits, guitar). Annual music festivals feature such popular music as and beauty contests. merengue, salsa, gaitas (traditional Christmas music), and Flowers are important in Venezuelan celebrations. During aguinaldos (traditional Christmas songs). Classical music is each holiday, statues of Simón Bolívar, the father of appreciated, and there are symphony orchestras in many Venezuela, are decorated with colorful wreaths. cities. Literature developed substantially during the 20th century, due largely to the influence of such writers as Arturo Uslar SOCIETY

6 TM CultureGrams Venezuela Government inflation. These issues have intensified discontent among Structure many Venezuelans, who see Maduro as an authoritarian Venezuela is a republic with a president who serves a six-year leader responsible for harming the economy and stripping term and may be reelected an unlimited number of times. The citizens of civil rights. Venezuela ranks as one of the most president is both head of state and head of government. The corrupt countries in the world. National Assembly is a unicameral body made up of 167 Recent elections have not been considered free and fair. members, 113 of whom are elected by popular vote. An Voter intimidation and vote buying are common. Voter additional 51 members are elected by proportional turnout in the 2015 election was over 70 percent but dropped representation vote, and 3 seats are reserved for indigenous to 46 percent in the 2018 election, which was widely members. Legislators serve five-year terms. There is no cap criticized as being illegitimate. The voting age is 18. on the number of times legislators may be reelected. The judicial branch is highly politicized and lacks independence. Economy Venezuela is virtually without a separation of powers. Venezuela is a member of OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Political Landscape Exporting Countries), and oil is the cornerstone of the Venezuela's traditional political parties, notably the economy. It accounts for virtually all export earnings and Democratic Action party (AD) and the Social Christian Party nearly half of all government revenues. It also is used to pay (), have been challenged by relatively new political off the loans that are increasingly granted the country by parties such as Un Nuevo Tiempo (A New Era) and the China. Oil revenues have allowed the country to develop a Movement for a Fifth Republic (MVR), which was formed to modern infrastructure. However, oil has also made Venezuela support Hugo Chávez’s first candidacy and later merged into subject to global market changes; when oil prices drop, the the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) along with entire economy suffers. Lower oil prices since 2014 and several other parties. As the long-time ruling party, the declining oil production have worsened an economy that was PSUV benefitted from significant government support and already faltering. publicity during campaign seasons, as well as preferential Because the economy is oil dependent, the government has electoral rules. stressed economic diversification. Nevertheless, non-oil In 2016, the main opposition coalition, the Democratic exports have slowed due to the nationalization of many firms Unity Roundtable (MUD), took legislative power for the first in the financial and agriculture sectors, among others. The time in 16 years. The MUD hoped to curb growing executive tourism, petrochemical, and gas sectors are potential sources power and to prevent further weakening of democratic of revenue. The country also exports some minerals and other institutions, but Venezuela’s pro-Maduro Supreme Court has raw materials. Agriculture employs about 7 percent of the limited the legislature’s power. Confrontations between ruling population and produces goods like grains, sugar, fruits, and and opposition politicians are fierce and have at times even coffee. turned violent. The government's economic policies have contributed to President Maduro, who has continued Chávez’s policies, is widespread shortages in consumer goods, housing, electricity, dealing with an economic collapse that has contributed to an medicine, and even food. The inflation rate, which has soared ongoing humanitarian crisis. Maduro’s efforts to improve the astronomically, is the world's highest, and the economy is in standard of living have largely failed. Additionally, in January the worst recession Venezuela has ever experienced. The 2019, Maduro faced a challenge to his legitimacy as president standard of living of most Venezuelans is falling. Incomes are when opposition leader Juan Guaidó declared himself interim plunging, and a large portion of the population lives in president. Although Maduro has refused to step down, he poverty. The gap between rich and poor is widening as continues to confront mounting calls to resign from Guaidó, Venezuela's middle class continues to shrink. A significant the Venezuelan people, and the international community. portion of the population has not benefited from Venezuela's Government and the People oil wealth. Access to health care, education, and a decent The constitution guarantees freedoms of religion, press, and standard of living is limited for the general population. assembly. However, of these three, only freedom of religion In 2012, Venezuela became a full member of Mercosur, a is respected in practice. Reporters are often intimidated by the regional free-trade pact, though its membership has since government, which effectively controls the content broadcast been suspended due to the nation's economic and political on radio and television. Anti-government protests are turmoil. In an effort to address the country's hyperinflation, in frequent, but security forces routinely crack down on them, August 2018 Venezuela introduced a new currency, called the oftentimes violently. Those who oppose the Maduro bolívar soberano (VES). government may face harassment, violence, and imprisonment. Transportation and Communications Venezuelans are divided about the extent to which Most people use public transportation; few Venezuelans can government should be involved in citizens’ daily lives. afford to own a private car. Those who have cars usually keep Supporters of Chávez, many of whom were poor, appreciated them for at least 10 years. Buses (which are often the material support and increased standard of living he overcrowded) and taxis are common, but thepor puesto is the offered them. Maduro has aimed to continue this support, most popular form of transportation. It features a system of though his government’s ability to do so has been limited by taxi-like automobiles that travel a regular route throughout the widespread shortages of consumer goods and soaring city, picking up and letting off passengers at any point. The

7 TM CultureGrams Venezuela cost is less than a taxi but more than a bus. In recent years, the widespread among all social classes and is often considered number of motorcycles—including mototaxis—has exploded, acceptable. as social programs have enabled the country's poor to more Higher Education easily afford the growing number of inexpensive bikes Secondary school tracks are available in the sciences, imported from China. The government is working to better humanities, and technical fields. After secondary school, regulate these motorcycles, which offer cheap transport but students may choose from a variety of three-year vocational are also often involved in fatal accidents and crime. schools; many students choose this route, as it enables them Major cities are connected by highways, but driving can be to enter the workforce quickly. A minority take an aptitude unsafe on poorly maintained roads. Traffic laws are test to enter a university. Bachelor's degrees generally take frequently violated. In Caracas, traffic jams (colas) are five years to complete. Popular fields of study include common and can increase commute times by several hours. medicine, economics, accounting, business, law, education, Caracas and Los Teques have modern subway systems. languages, engineering, and architecture. The most important Railroads generally are not used for passenger travel. private universities are Metropolitan University, Andrés Bello The communications system is modern and expanding. Catholic University, and the University of Santa María. The Most people have a cellular phone. Public landlines are also Central University of Venezuela and Simón Bolívar available. Internet usage is growing, but the government is University are high-quality public institutions. increasingly restricting access to certain sites. In addition to state-run television and radio channels, several private radio Health and television stations broadcast in Venezuela; however, Good medical facilities can be found in urban areas, but the many outlets that were critical of the government have been best are private and very expensive for the average citizen. closed indefinitely, and the government has the power to Many facilities, particularly in rural areas, lack staff, control media content to a large degree. A number of daily equipment, and supplies. Such shortages have increased to national and regional newspapers also service the country. crisis level during Venezuela's deep recession. Medical-care personnel in public hospitals strike relatively frequently to Education protest insufficient stores of medicines. Some Cuban Structure healthcare workers provide free medical care to poor Education is compulsory (though not enforced) for nine years. Venezuelans as part of a government program, though their Many children attend private or public preschools. All numbers have decreased as the situation in Venezuela has education, including university level, is free in public worsened. In the past, only two-thirds of all infants were institutions. Exclusive private Catholic schools, which only immunized against childhood diseases, but the government the wealthy can afford, offer religious instruction in addition has raised that number substantially. Malnutrition is a to core academic subjects. The government has taken great challenge faced by many and is growing. Malaria, cholera, strides in improving the literacy rate largely by instituting and dengue fever are active, especially in certain rural adult education programs. areas. Tuberculosis, once under control, has made a Access comeback during the economic crisis. Most students complete primary school (six years). However, attendance at secondary schools (five years) is lower. In recent years, the number of students not attending school has AT A GLANCE soared due to increasingly desperate conditions resulting from Venezuela's economic collapse and political turmoil. Contact Information Public education is of low quality. Many parents believe Embassy of the Republic of Venezuela, 1099 30th Street NW, that public schools are unlikely to prepare their children for Washington, DC 20007; phone (202) 342-2214; web site university-level education and may encourage their children mppre.gob.ve/en/mfa-venezuela. to enter the workforce instead to help support the family. Additionally, parents may be unable to afford the necessary books, transportation, and uniforms for their children. Some Country and Development Data computers and other materials are provided by the government. Educators are paid very little. Parents who can Capital Caracas afford to do so enroll their children in after-school programs Population 31,689,176 (rank=43) Area (sq. mi.) 352,144 (rank=32) and employ tutors. Area (sq. km.) 912,050 School Life Human Development Index 77 of 188 countries The school year begins in September and runs through July, Gender Inequality Index 105 of 188 countries GDP (PPP) per capita $12,500 with exam periods in February and July. School days start at 7 Adult Literacy 96% (male); 96% (female) a.m. and end at 1 p.m. Since Hugo Chávez's rule, curriculum Infant Mortality 12 per 1,000 births has emphasized the socialist concepts his government Life Expectancy 71 (male); 79 (female) Currency Bolívar Soberano introduced and President Nicolás Maduro's has continued. Students in public schools tend to have homework two to three nights a week, while students at private schools are expected to complete assignments daily. Cheating is fairly

8 CultureGramsTM Venezuela

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