Powerful Hugo Chávez’s Toxic Legacy Haunts Venezuela

Hugo Chávez, Venezuela's fiery leader, died of cancer in 2013 after 14 years in power.

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Chávez claimed to be born in poverty, disputed by some, but his family's status improved.

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His legacy is shrouded in myth and speculation. He identified with the underprivileged and pursued a military career.

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Before Venezuela's troubled times, Chávez and fellow officers formed a secret sect in the army, similar to past military disturbances.

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On February 4, 1992, military tanks ousted the elected president, ending democracy.

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Chávez was captured after the failed coup, but it marked the end for Pérez and made Chávez famous.

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In 1993, Venezuela elected Rafael Caldera as an independent president, who then freed military men involved in coups.

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Chávez proposed changing the constitution, captivating the poor with polarizing rhetoric and populism.

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