What was the February 1992 Venezuelan coup attempt?

The February 1992 Venezuelan coup attempt was an effort by the Revolutionary Bolivarian Movement-200 (MBR-200), led by Hugo Chávez, to overthrow the government of President Carlos Andrés Pérez on February 4, 1992.

Who led the February 1992 coup attempt in Venezuela?

The February 1992 Venezuelan coup attempt was led by Hugo Chávez, who was a Lieutenant Colonel at the time and the founder of the Revolutionary Bolivarian Movement-200 (MBR-200).

Against whom was the February 1992 coup attempt directed?

The coup attempt was directed against the government of Venezuelan President Carlos Andrés Pérez.

What was the primary context for the February 1992 coup attempt in Venezuela?

The coup attempt occurred during a period of significant economic liberalization reforms implemented by President Carlos Andrés Pérez. These reforms, aimed at reducing national debt, led to widespread protests and social unrest due to their impact on the population, particularly the working and lower classes.

What was the immediate national impact of the February 1992 coup attempt on Hugo Chávez?

Despite the failure of the coup to depose the government, the February 1992 attempt brought Hugo Chávez into the national spotlight, with many poor Venezuelans viewing him as a figure who challenged government corruption.

What were the reported casualty figures for the February 1992 Venezuelan coup attempt?

The fighting during the coup attempt resulted in the deaths of at least 143 people, and possibly several hundred. Officially, 32 people were reported dead and 130 injured, though civilian casualties were higher.

What was the state of Venezuelan democracy and economy prior to the 1992 coup attempts?

Venezuela had enjoyed democratic stability since 1958 and experienced significant economic prosperity in the 1970s due to high oil prices. However, by the 1980s, falling oil prices led to a substantial decline in revenues, causing economic and social instability, rising poverty, inflation, unemployment, and widespread corruption.

How did the decline in oil revenues in the 1980s affect Venezuela?

The drop in oil revenues caused Venezuela's per capita income to decline by about 25%, imperiling economic and social stability. Government overspending exacerbated the situation, leading to increased debt, poverty, inflation, and unemployment, while corruption and crime also rose.

What was the public's sentiment towards the government in Venezuela leading up to the coup attempts?

The Venezuelan public, particularly the poor who felt neglected, became outraged due to widespread corruption, rising crime, and the economic hardships caused by declining oil revenues and government policies.

What conditions did the International Monetary Fund (IMF) impose for assisting Venezuela with its debts?

The IMF offered assistance on the condition that Venezuela enact budgetary and fiscal reforms to curtail its deficits.

What were President Pérez's liberalization policies enacted in 1989?

In 1989, President Pérez implemented liberalization policies that included reducing social spending, cutting commodity subsidies, and removing price controls on many goods.

How did President Pérez's 1989 liberalization policies impact the Venezuelan population?

These policies disproportionately affected Venezuela's working and lower classes, leading to widespread discontent that erupted into protests and social unrest.

What major event occurred on February 27, 1989, as a result of public discontent?

The discontent caused by President Pérez's liberalization policies erupted into the 'Caracazo,' a significant period of protests and riots that began on February 27, 1989.

What political background did many participants in the 1992 coup attempts share?

Many participants in the coup attempts had previously been members of the Venezuelan Revolution Party (PRV) in the 1970s, which was founded by Douglas Bravo, a former Communist and guerrilla fighter who sought to infiltrate the armed forces.

What were the main grievances of the Movimiento Bolivariano Revolucionario 200 (MBR-200)?

The MBR-200's main complaints centered on the corruption of President Carlos Andrés Pérez, Venezuela's ongoing economic difficulties, and social turmoil. They believed the entire political system needed fundamental change to achieve social progress.

What role did Fidel Castro allegedly play in the lead-up to the coup attempts?

It is alleged that in February 1989, Cuban President Fidel Castro placed sleeper agents in Venezuela to foment unrest. Castro allegedly sought to establish an ally in Venezuela to benefit from its oil profits, especially as Cuba faced economic difficulties due to the Soviet Union's Perestroika.

What did CIA analyst Brian Latell suggest about Cuban involvement in Chávez's coup plots?

Brian Latell suggested that the Cuban intelligence agency (DGI) might have used Chávez to secure Cuban strategic dominance over Venezuela and its oil reserves, potentially by hiring Chávez as an agent or providing critical aid to his coup plans.

According to General Carlos Julio Peñaloza, who else knew about Chávez's coup plot besides Castro?

According to General Carlos Julio Peñaloza in his book *El Delfín de Fidel*, both Fidel Castro and future Venezuelan President Rafael Caldera were aware of Hugo Chávez's coup plot.

When was the MBR-200 coup originally planned, and when did it actually take place?

The MBR-200 coup was initially planned for December 1991 but was delayed by Hugo Chávez until the early morning hours of February 4, 1992.

What percentage of Venezuela's military forces reportedly supported Chávez's coup attempt?

At the time of the coup attempt, Hugo Chávez held the loyalty of approximately 10% of Venezuela's military forces.

What key installations in Caracas were targeted by Chávez's forces during the coup attempt?

The targeted installations included the presidential residence (Miraflores Palace), the defense ministry, La Carlota military airport, and the Military Museum.

What was Hugo Chávez's ultimate objective regarding President Pérez during the coup attempt?

Chávez's ultimate goal was to intercept President Pérez upon his return to Venezuela, take him into custody, and allegedly execute him.

How did President Pérez evade capture during the coup attempt?

President Pérez, having been alerted to the coup, was driven away from the airport without headlights, speeding onto the highway, thus evading the capture attempt by Miguel Rodríguez Torres.

What orders did Captain Miguel Rodríguez Torres give when President Pérez's vehicle fled?

Captain Miguel Rodríguez Torres, surprised by Pérez's escape, ordered his command to fire at the President's fleeing vehicle.

What happened during the final attempt to seize Miraflores Palace?

Insurgents attempted to storm Miraflores Palace, expecting palace guards to open the doors. However, the guards were aware of the coup and attacked the approaching armored vehicle, ending the assault and resulting in casualties.

What was President Pérez's reaction after escaping Miraflores Palace?

After escaping, President Pérez used a local TV station to rally the remaining military forces against the aggressors and ordered them to 'give them bullets'.

What was Hugo Chávez's famous statement upon surrendering and addressing the nation?

Upon surrendering, Chávez appeared on national television and stated that the objectives had not been achieved 'por ahora' ('for now'), implying future attempts.

What were the casualty figures specifically for soldiers and civilians during the February 4th violence?

During the violence, 18 soldiers were killed and 51 were injured. The majority of the casualties were civilians, with 49 killed and approximately 80 injured in the crossfire.

Where was Hugo Chávez imprisoned after the failed coup attempt?

After the failed coup attempt, Hugo Chávez was imprisoned at the San Carlos military stockade.

When was the second coup attempt launched in Venezuela, and who led it?

A second coup attempt was launched on November 27, 1992, led by officers from the air force and navy, including pilot Luis Reyes Reyes.

What lessons did the November 1992 coup plotters learn from the February attempt?

The plotters learned from the February coup's errors, such as launching earlier (4:30 am instead of midnight) and ensuring they had adequate communications equipment to avoid being isolated.

How did the government agents respond to civilians and surrendered rebels during the coup attempts?

Government agents were reported to have killed 40 people, including civilians and surrendered rebels, through extrajudicial executions or the use of disproportionate force.

How did the government restrict freedoms in response to the coup attempts?

Freedom of expression was suspended for two months following the February coup attempt and for three weeks after the November attempt, involving censorship of the media.

How did the government respond to demonstrations calling for President Pérez's resignation?

Demonstrations in March and April calling for President Pérez's resignation and the restoration of constitutional guarantees were met with state violence, including indiscriminate police firing into crowds, which resulted in thirteen deaths.

How were participants in the February coup attempt tried?

Participants in the February coup attempt were tried under the regular military justice system.

What was the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the *ad hoc* courts created after the November coup attempt?

The Supreme Court ruled the *ad hoc* courts unconstitutional, not on due process grounds, but because the President had failed to suspend the relevant constitutional rights, such as the right to defense and the right to be tried by one's natural judge.

How did the coup attempts affect the bipartisanship system in Venezuela?

With President Pérez's declining popularity due to liberalization reforms and the failed coup attempts, the established bipartisanship system in Venezuela weakened.

What role did Rafael Caldera play in the aftermath of the coup attempts?

Former president Rafael Caldera capitalized on the turmoil and Pérez's weakening position. He commented on the deterioration of democracy and corruption, and his supporters' actions contributed to Pérez's ousting.

When was President Pérez removed from the presidency, and on what charges?

President Pérez was ousted from the presidency on May 20, 1993, on charges of corruption.

How did Rafael Caldera's victory in the 1993 presidential election impact Hugo Chávez?

As part of his campaign, Caldera promised to pardon the coup plotters. He later fulfilled this promise, which enabled Hugo Chávez to participate in and eventually win the 1998 presidential election.

Which coup leader later ran against Hugo Chávez in the 2000 presidential election?

Francisco Arias Cárdenas, who was a commandant in Maracaibo during the February 4 coup attempt and a leader of the Radical Cause party, ran as the opposition candidate against Hugo Chávez in the 2000 presidential election.

What was the focus of the *Los Angeles Times* regarding the coup attempts in December 1992?

The *Los Angeles Times* focused on the potential causes of the coup attempts, highlighting the recession in Latin America and government corruption as contributing factors.

What alternative motive did *The Los Angeles Times* suggest for some coup attempts?

The newspaper suggested that some coup attempts might have been driven by corrupt Venezuelan officers aiming to seize control of the government and profit from drug trafficking.

Which countries and organizations condemned the February 1992 Venezuelan coup attempts?

The coup attempts were condemned by Brazil, Cuba, the European Community, Mexico, the Organization of American States, and the United States.

What was the alleged objective of Fidel Castro in organizing a coup in Venezuela?

Castro allegedly sought to establish an ally in Venezuela to secure funds from its oil profits, particularly as Cuba faced economic difficulties due to the collapse of the Soviet Union's economic support.

What was the significance of Chávez's statement 'por ahora'?

Chávez's statement 'por ahora' ('for now') after his surrender became famous because it signaled his intention to continue his political struggle and implied that his movement would eventually succeed, which it did when he won the presidency in 1998.

What was the role of the MBR-200 in Venezuelan politics?

The MBR-200 was a revolutionary movement founded by Hugo Chávez, which aimed to overthrow the existing political system, which they viewed as corrupt and clientelist, and establish a new social order.

How did the Caracazo protests influence the political climate in Venezuela?

The Caracazo protests, triggered by austerity measures, demonstrated the deep public discontent with the government's economic policies and social inequality, contributing to the instability that fueled the coup attempts.

What was the outcome for President Carlos Andrés Pérez following the coup attempts?

Although the coup attempts failed to remove him immediately, President Pérez's popularity plummeted. He was eventually ousted from the presidency in May 1993 on corruption charges.

What is the significance of the February 1992 coup attempt in the broader history of Venezuela?

The February 1992 coup attempt marked a significant turning point, exposing the deep societal divisions and dissatisfaction with the established political order, ultimately paving the way for Hugo Chávez's rise to power.

February 1992 Venezuelan Coup Attempt Wiki: Venezuela's Crucible: The 1992 Coup Attempt

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The February 1992 Coup Attempt

The Event

On 4 February 1992, a significant attempt was made to overthrow the government of President Carlos Andrés Pérez. This coordinated action was led by the Revolutionary Bolivarian Movement-200 (MBR-200), spearheaded by Lieutenant Colonel Hugo Chávez.

Despite its ultimate failure to depose the government, the coup attempt dramatically propelled Chávez into the national consciousness, marking a critical turning point in Venezuelan political history.

Objectives and Outcome

The primary objective was to seize control of the state apparatus and remove President Pérez, whom the MBR-200 viewed as corrupt and responsible for the nation's severe economic decline and social unrest.

The coup failed due to a combination of strategic miscalculations, loyalist resistance, and communication breakdowns. However, it exposed deep-seated discontent within the military and populace.

Immediate Impact

The violence associated with the coup resulted in significant casualties, officially numbering at least 143 dead and hundreds injured, predominantly civilians caught in the crossfire.

While militarily unsuccessful, the event served as a catalyst, weakening the established political system and paving the way for future political transformations.

Historical Context

Economic Decline

Venezuela had experienced a period of prosperity in the 1970s due to high oil prices. However, the 1980s saw a sharp decline in oil revenues, leading to severe economic contraction. Per capita income dropped significantly, exacerbating poverty, inflation, and unemployment.

The government's fiscal policies and reliance on international loans, coupled with widespread corruption, fueled public outrage, particularly among the lower classes.

Social Unrest

In response to International Monetary Fund (IMF)-mandated austerity measures, President Pérez implemented liberalization policies in 1989. These reforms, including reduced social spending and removal of price controls, disproportionately affected the poor.

This discontent erupted into widespread protests known as the "Caracazo" beginning on 27 February 1989, which were met with brutal state repression, further deepening societal divisions.

Political Landscape

Venezuela had enjoyed relative democratic stability since 1958, characterized by a bipartisan system dominated by Democratic Action (AD) and COPEI. However, this system was increasingly perceived as corrupt and clientelistic.

The economic crisis and the government's handling of the Caracazo eroded public trust in the established political parties, creating fertile ground for radical alternatives.

Origins of the Movement

MBR-200 Formation

The Revolutionary Bolivarian Movement-200 (MBR-200) was founded in 1982 by Lieutenant Colonel Hugo Chávez Frías. The movement drew inspiration from the ideals of Simón Bolívar and sought to fundamentally change Venezuela's political and economic system.

Key figures like Francisco Arias Cárdenas joined Chávez, united by their rejection of the ruling political establishment and the nation's socio-economic conditions.

Alleged Cuban Influence

Sources suggest potential involvement or influence from Cuba, particularly its intelligence agency (DGI), in the planning and execution of the coup. This alleged support aimed to destabilize Venezuela and potentially secure Cuban strategic interests.

Allegations include the provision of intelligence, strategic advice, and sleeper agents to foster unrest, with Chávez potentially serving as a figurehead to mitigate direct U.S. intervention.

Strategic Goals

The MBR-200's core grievance was the perceived corruption and ineffectiveness of the traditional political parties (AD and COPEI). They aimed to dismantle this system and establish a new form of governance.

The coup plotters envisioned a radical transformation, potentially involving a civil-military action to reshape the nation's future.

The Coup Attempt Unfolds

Execution of the Plan

The coup commenced in the early hours of 4 February 1992. Chávez's units moved to seize key military and communication installations in Caracas, including Miraflores Palace and La Carlota military airport.

An initial objective was to intercept President Pérez upon his return from Davos, Switzerland, though this plan was complicated by intelligence failures and Pérez's evasive maneuvers.

Confrontation and Resistance

Insurgent forces faced resistance from loyalist troops. A significant firefight occurred near Miraflores Palace, resulting in casualties among Pérez's bodyguards and preventing the capture of the president.

Rebel advances were made in cities like Valencia, Maracaibo, and Maracay, supported by some civilian elements, but the failure to secure Caracas proved critical.

Chávez's Broadcast

Following the operational setbacks, Chávez surrendered. He was permitted to appear on national television to call for an end to hostilities. In this broadcast, he famously stated that the objectives had not been achieved "por ahora" ("for now"), signaling his intent to continue the struggle.

This televised address, despite the military failure, cemented his image as a defiant leader among segments of the population.

Government and International Response

Presidential Reaction

President Pérez, having evaded capture, rallied loyal military forces. His directive was clear: "No negotiations. Give them bullets." This firm stance aimed to quell the rebellion decisively.

The government's suppression of the coup involved significant force, leading to accusations of extrajudicial killings and disproportionate use of violence against both combatants and civilians.

Legal and Civil Liberties

In the aftermath, constitutional guarantees were suspended, and media censorship was imposed. Demonstrations calling for Pérez's resignation were met with state violence.

The trials of the coup participants were conducted under military justice systems, drawing criticism for potential due process violations, although the Supreme Court later found procedural issues unrelated to the core criticisms.

International Condemnation

Governments worldwide, including Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, the United States, and the European Community, condemned the coup attempts. This international stance reinforced the legitimacy of the existing Venezuelan government.

Despite the condemnation, the underlying issues that fueled the coup—economic hardship and political disillusionment—persisted, influencing future political developments.

The Aftermath and Legacy

Chávez's Ascendancy

The failed coup paradoxically elevated Hugo Chávez to a national hero status among many impoverished Venezuelans who saw him as a symbol of resistance against corruption and inequality.

Imprisoned after the event, Chávez used his platform to articulate his vision, which resonated widely and set the stage for his eventual political rise.

Political Realignment

The coup attempts significantly weakened the traditional bipartisanship of AD and COPEI. President Pérez eventually resigned in May 1993 amidst corruption charges.

The political vacuum and public disillusionment allowed Rafael Caldera, who had allegedly been aware of the coup plot, to win the 1993 presidential election, promising pardons for the coup plotters.

Path to Power

The pardons granted to the coup participants, including Chávez, enabled them to re-enter political life. Chávez's subsequent participation and victory in the 1998 presidential election marked the beginning of the Bolivarian Revolution.

Several leaders from the coup attempt, such as Francisco Arias Cárdenas, later played prominent roles in Venezuelan politics, underscoring the long-term impact of the 1992 events.

Media and International Perspectives

Media Coverage

Media outlets like the Los Angeles Times highlighted the underlying causes of the coup attempts, pointing to regional recession, government corruption, and potential involvement of military factions in illicit activities.

The narrative often focused on the deep-seated instability and the potential for military figures to exploit the situation for personal gain or political power.

Global Viewpoint

International reactions were largely condemnatory, with major global powers and regional organizations expressing support for the Venezuelan government and denouncing the use of force.

This unified international stance underscored the prevailing norm against military coups in the Americas during that era.

Related Events

November 1992 Coup Attempt

Just months after the February attempt, a second, distinct coup attempt occurred on 27 November 1992. This uprising was led by air force and navy officers and learned from the errors of the February plot.

Although also unsuccessful, it further demonstrated the persistent challenges to President Pérez's authority and the deep divisions within the armed forces.

Subsequent Political Shifts

The cumulative effect of these coup attempts, coupled with ongoing economic crises and corruption scandals, led to President Pérez's impeachment in 1993.

This political upheaval paved the way for new political forces, ultimately culminating in Hugo Chávez's election in 1998 and the subsequent transformation of Venezuela.

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References

Statistical Abstract of the United States, 1971. 1982, and 1994 editions, "Comparative International Statistics"

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Venezuela's Crucible

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The February 1992 Coup Attempt 💥

🗓️ The Event

⚖️ Objectives and Outcome

📈 Immediate Impact

Historical Context 📜

💰 Economic Decline

✊ Social Unrest

🏛️ Political Landscape

Origins of the Movement 👤

💡 MBR-200 Formation

🇨🇺 Alleged Cuban Influence

🎯 Strategic Goals

The Coup Attempt Unfolds ⚔️

🚀 Execution of the Plan

💥 Confrontation and Resistance

📺 Chávez's Broadcast

Government and International Response 🛡️

🗣️ Presidential Reaction

⚖️ Legal and Civil Liberties

🌍 International Condemnation

The Aftermath and Legacy ⏳

🌟 Chávez's Ascendancy

📉 Political Realignment

🗳️ Path to Power

Media and International Perspectives 📰

📰 Media Coverage

🌍 Global Viewpoint

Related Events 🔗

🗓️ November 1992 Coup Attempt

🏛️ Subsequent Political Shifts

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The February 1992 Coup Attempt

The Event

Objectives and Outcome

Immediate Impact

Historical Context

Economic Decline

Social Unrest

Political Landscape

Origins of the Movement

MBR-200 Formation

Alleged Cuban Influence

Strategic Goals

The Coup Attempt Unfolds

Execution of the Plan

Confrontation and Resistance

Chávez's Broadcast

Government and International Response

Presidential Reaction

Legal and Civil Liberties

International Condemnation

The Aftermath and Legacy

Chávez's Ascendancy

Political Realignment

Path to Power

Media and International Perspectives

Media Coverage

Global Viewpoint

Related Events

November 1992 Coup Attempt

Subsequent Political Shifts

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice