The United States and Venezuela 1998-2006: History, Economy, and Politics

Since Hugo Chavez became the Head of State of Venezuela in 1998, he has not missed a chance to alienate the United States. His friend-ship with Fidel Castro, fierce verbal attacks against George Bush and threats of cutting down on oil production have made him a preferred target of conservative America. But where does this sudden ill will between two countries with once cordial relations originate? Can the frequent diplomatic clashes between the two neighbors be taken at face value in view of the fact that their commercial relationship thrives unabatedly? Does the conflict between Bush and Chavez merely serve as a cover up for the much larger fight of the US neo-conservatives against the new surge of neo-populists taking the highest offices in Latin America? In this book, the common history, the many points of agreement in economy, culture and politics, as well as the areas of conflict between the United States and Venzuela will be highlighted to enable the reader to assess the current tensions and to see the animosities within the context of each of their agendas. It provides valuable insight into the mechanics of media coverage to students of political science and cultural studies.