The Declaration of Independence of Venezuela marks a crucial turning point in Venezuelan and Latin American history: the beginning of the country's independence movement from Spanish colonial rule.

When is Declaration of Independence?

Declaration of Independence is celebrated every year on April 19.

The following is the list of Declaration of Independence from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Declaration of Independence?

In the early 1800s, much of Latin America, including Venezuela, was under Spanish colonial rule. In 1808, Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Spain and forced the abdication of King Ferdinand VII, plunging Spain into political chaos.

In response, juntas (local governing bodies) began forming across Latin America, claiming to govern in the name of the captured king, but effectively acting as autonomous governments.

On April 19, 1810, the Cabildo of Caracas (municipal council) convened an emergency meeting with the Spanish governor Vicente Emparan.

A large crowd had gathered outside, demanding change. After tense discussions and a symbolic consultation with the public, Emparan was forced to resign.

The council declared the formation of a Supreme Junta to Preserve the Rights of Ferdinand VII, a cautious way to assert local power while avoiding direct rebellion. However, this was a de facto declaration of self-governance—and marked the beginning of Venezuela's path to independence.

It was the first time Venezuelans challenged Spanish colonial authority through a legal and political process. It paved the way for full independence, which was declared 15 months later, on July 5, 1811. It also inspired similar movements throughout Latin America in the 1810s.