Social Stratification and Political History of 19th Century Venezuela

Social Class in Agricultural Venezuela

Following the War of Independence, the abolition of slavery, and the Federal War, Venezuela dismantled the ethnic barriers imposed by colonial society. This transition established a new social stratification based on property ownership, fostering aspirations of equality within the Venezuelan social consciousness.

Rural Society

The agricultural sector was comprised of the following social groups:

• Latifundistas (Landlords): Owners of large tracts of land.
• Medium and small landowners.
• Peasantry.
• Slaves.

Urban Society

In towns and villages with over 10,000 inhabitants, the following groups were distinguished:

• Large retailers.
• Higher clergy.
• Media fields.
• Professionals.
• Carriers.
• Urban workers.
• Urban servitude.

The Paecismo Era

Key features of this period included:

• The country was ruled by a conservative elite group nucleated around General José Antonio Páez.
• The republic was organized with an efficient system that managed to reduce 28.5% of Venezuela's national debt.
• Economic policies of liberalism were adopted, favoring the interests of the commercial bourgeoisie while negatively impacting small and medium producers.
• Governments faced frequent demonstrations by regional warlords.

Relations with the Church

• Bishops who refused to swear allegiance to the constitution were expelled.
• Freedom of worship was established.
• Tithe payments were abolished, and the state assumed ecclesiastical costs.
• Convents and seminaries were closed, and their property was confiscated.
• The Archbishop of Caracas, Ignacio Méndez, the highest ecclesiastical authority at the time, refused to swear to the constitution in the cathedral during Mass, opting to do so at the government house instead.

The Presidency of José María Vargas

The administration of José María Vargas focused on achieving social improvements for the populace. The most significant event was the Revolution of Reforms, which undermined the prospects of a stable civil government. President Vargas was forced to resign and was subsequently banished alongside Vice President Narvarte. Although these leaders briefly returned to office, they faced numerous attacks from opposition sectors, leading to Vargas's formal resignation before Congress on April 14, 1836.

Constitutional Government of Carlos Soublette

On July 5, 1838, Soublette recognized the memory of the Liberator, a move that drew significant criticism due to the prevailing anti-Bolivarian atmosphere of the time. Despite the backlash, Soublette maintained his position, viewing it as a just act of recognition for the hero who secured the nation's freedom.

Second Term of General José Antonio Páez

The political landscape continued to evolve under the subsequent leadership of General José Antonio Páez.