Venezuela: U.S. Recognition and Diplomatic Relations since 1776

Summary

Venezuela effectively achieved its independence from Spain by 1819 as part of the Republic of Colombia, and the United States recognized the Colombian federation in 1822. After Venezuela separated from Colombia in 1830, the United States recognized and established diplomatic relations with Venezuela in 1835.

Modern Flag of Venezuela

Recognition

U.S. Recognition of Venezuela, 1835

The United States recognized Venezuela on February 28, 1835 by issuing an exequatur to Nicholas D.C. Moller as the Venezuelan Consul in New York. Venezuela had become independence from the Colombian federation in 1830.

Consular Presence

Establishment of Consulate in Maracaibo, 1824

The first U.S. consulate in the present-day territory of Venezuela established in the Caribbean port city of Maracaibo in 1824. The post closed in 1994.

Diplomatic Relations

Establishment of Diplomatic Relations, 1835

Diplomatic relations were established on June 30, 1835, when U.S. Chargé d’Affaires John G.A. Williamson presented his credentials to the Venezuelan Government.

Elevation of Status of Legation in Caracas to Embassy, 1939

The U.S. Legation in Venezuela was raised to the rank of Embassy in 1939. Frank P. Corrigan became the first U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela.

Treaties & Agreements

Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Navigation, and Commerce, 1836

The first commercial treaty between the United States and the Republic of Venezuela was signed on January 20, 1836. Ratifications were exchanged on May 31, 1836, and it became effective on June 20 of that year.

Resources

Where this page came from

This page was imported from U.S. Department of State, Office of the Historian. A Guide to the United States' History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776, published by the Office of the Historian of the U.S. Department of State: a work of the United States government, in the public domain.

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