Front Burner Chavez, Maduro, and the making of Venezuela
Jan 8, 2026
Alejandro Velasco, an NYU associate professor and author, delves into Venezuela's tumultuous political history, from Chavez's Bolivarian Revolution to Maduro's struggles with governance. He explores Chavez's transformation of political ideologies and his utilization of oil wealth for social initiatives. Velasco also discusses the deterioration of US relations and the challenges Maduro faced amidst economic collapse and authoritarian tactics. The complex dynamics between diaspora politics and domestic opposition highlight the ongoing struggles within Venezuelan society.
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Bolivarian Movement As Inclusive Patchwork
- The Bolivarian Revolution fused nationalist pride in Simón Bolívar with participatory politics to attract broad social sectors.
- Alejandro Velasco explains this patchwork responded to corruption and economic collapse under Punto Fijo.
Bolívar's Myth Transcended Ideology
- Simón Bolívar became a mythic figure adopted by varied political currents across Latin America.
- Velasco notes Bolívar's legacy was molded to serve both left and right agendas over time.
Chávez Evolved From Populism To Socialism
- Chávez's movement initially emphasized anti-corruption and participatory governance rather than socialism.
- Velasco says socialism arrived later as 'socialism of the 21st century' after Chávez consolidated power and oil revenues rose.
