Simón Bolívar's Role in Venezuela's First Independence

Simón Bolívar and the First Republic (1810-1812)

The Revolutionary Movement Begins

When the events occurred on April 19, 1810, Bolívar was at his ranch in San Mateo. A few days later, he returned to Caracas and actively incorporated himself into the revolutionary movement.

Diplomatic Mission to London (1810)

In July 1810, Bolívar traveled to London in the company of Luis López Méndez and Andrés Bello on a mission from the Supreme Junta to the English government. The commissioners held the position that the Supreme Junta remained faithful to Ferdinand VII, while retaining its autonomy from the Regency. The commissioners were also tasked with managing the purchase of weapons and securing the British government's recognition for the Junta of Caracas.

This mission was ultimately unsuccessful because of the complicated international situation at the time. England, which had previously helped the revolutionary movements in the Spanish colonies, was now an ally of Spain in the war against Napoleon. Under these new circumstances, England attempted to mediate between the Regency, representing the government of Spain, and the Junta of Caracas. The English government did not recognize the Supreme Junta for fear of a rupture with the Regency, which would have weakened its ally against Bonaparte.

Despite these negative results, Bolívar's trip to London allowed him to make contact with several Hispanic American revolutionaries in the British capital, especially with the precursor Francisco de Miranda, whom he invited to come to Venezuela.

Bolívar's Early Military Career

Enlistment and First Engagements

After the declaration of independence, the final break with Spain occurred, and the war began. Spanish spies and agents infiltrated patriot territory for the purpose of promoting unrest and riots against the republican government.

During these months, Bolívar enlisted in the army. Under the orders of Miranda, he had his first experience of war during the siege and pacification of Valencia, which had revolted due to royalist influence. Subsequently, with the rank of colonel, he was appointed Commander of Puerto Cabello.

The Fall of Puerto Cabello (1812)

In the Castle of San Felipe, a fortress of the port, many Spanish prisoners were detained. The situation had become extremely serious for the Patriots, especially after the devastating earthquake of March 26, 1812.

The government gave special powers to Miranda, who sent troops into the valleys of Aragua to defend Valencia, which was threatened by the royalists. But in Valencia, the situation became hopeless; a large number of neighbors defected to the Spanish side, and the city, which had been designated capital of the republic, had to be abandoned to the enemy.

After Valencia's fall, the focus shifted to Puerto Cabello, the republic's main stronghold and arsenal. On June 6, 1812, Puerto Cabello fell into Spanish hands. The officer in charge of the garrison defected to the enemy, freed the prisoners held in the fortress, and seized the city.