YALE UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY

Bought with the income
of the
ANN S. FARNAM FUND

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INTERESTING
OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS
RELATING TO
C&e (MttXi probtwes
OF
VENEZUELA, VIZ.
PRELIMINARY REMARKS,
THE ACT OF INDEPENDENCE,
PROCLAMATION, MANIFESTO TO THE WORLD OF THE
CAUSES WHICH HAVE IMPELLED THE SAID PROVINCES
TO SEPARATE FROM THE MOTHER COUNTRY ;
TOGETHER WITH
THE CONSTITUTION FRAMED FOR THE ADMINISTRATION
OF THEIR GOVERNMENT.
IJY SPANISH and ENGLISH.

i-cnDon t
PRINTED FOR LONGMAN AND CO. PATERNOSTER-ROW;
DULAU, SOHO-SQUARE ; HARDING, ST. JAMES'g
STREET ; W. MASON, NO. 6, HOLYWELL
STREET, STRAND, &C. &C.

1812.

Printed by W. Glindon,
Rupert -street, Haymarket.

OBSERVACIONES PRELIMINARES.

N,

I INGUN periodo en la historia de las naciones hasido senalado
con acontecimientos tan grandes t interesantes, como el actual.
Antiguos y enteros Imperios han sido disueltos, y han per-
dido su existencia poli'tica, mientras se ven brotar de sus ce-
nizas nuevos Estados, que levantan sus triunfantes peus.ch.os
sobre sus debiles y abatidos vecinos. Se han veiificado revo-
luciones tan impoitantes como inesperadas, reforma ha sido el
grito general, y los grandes y mejor entendidos intereses del
genero humano han despertado un fervor, han inspirado un zelo
ilustrado, que no se habia conocido hasta ahora. En Europa,
se han visto naciones enteras combatir animosamente por la extir
pation de abusos envejecidos : aquellos mismos que mas acostum-
brados estaban h arrastrar las cadenas del despotismo, se han acor-
dado de sus derechos largo tiempo olvidados, y se han reconocido
todavia hombres. Mientras los sentimientos publicos tomaban es-
ta direction en Europa, mientras el suspiro de la libertad se hacia
oir en las mas distantes regiones, < era de esperar que la Ame
rica Espanola, cuyos habitantes habian sido tanto tiempo holla-
dos y esclavizados, y donde mas que en otra parte alguna era in
dispensable una reforma, fuese la unica que permaneciese tran-
quila, la unica que resignada con su triste destino viese indolen-
temente, que quando los Gobiemos de la Peninsula se ocupaban
en mejorar la condition del Espanol Europeo, a ella sola se cer-
raba toda perspectiva de mejor suerte, que sus clamores eran dese-
chados, y que aun se le imponia una degradation todavia mayor,
que la que habia sufrido baxo el regimen corrompido de los
Ministros de Carlos IV ? Aquellos vastos e interesantes estable-

PRELIMINARY REMARKS.

JN O period of the history - of nations, like the pi<osent, has
been marked by events, so great and interesting. Old and entire
empires have been dissolved, and have lost their political being,
whilst new ones have sprung up out of their ashes, and raised
their triumphant crests, over their weaker and fallen neighbours.
Revolutions, both signal and unexpected, have taken place,
reform has been the watch-word, and the great and bettered
interests of mankind, have awakened a fervour, and inspiredan
enlightened zeal, hitherto unknown. In Europe, whole nations
have been seen to struggle for redress of grievances, even
those who have been longest accustomed to clank the galling
chains of Despotism, have . pondered on their long forgotten
rights, and have felt that they were yet men. Whilst such was!
the sense of feeling in Europe, and similar was the sigh that I
re-echoed to the most distant poles, could it be expected that i
Spanish America, those regions so long trampled upon, and
enslaved, where a reform was in short the most wanting, would
alone stand still, and bear with her former hardships ; that she
would calmly behold, whilst the governments of Spain, were busi
ed in meliorating their own condition, that she was yet debarred
from all relief, her claims unheard, and that she was even left
in a more degraded state, than under the corrupt administration
of the late ministers of Charles IV. As was natural, these vast
a 2

IV OBSERVACIONES pRELIMtNARES:
cimientos sintieron, como era natural, el choque el^ctrico, y eonio
los cuerpos politicos, a manera de los humanos, estan destinados
a llegar por fin d la epoca de la razon, vino el dia en que pene-
trados los Americanos de la justicia de sus demandas, la reclama
Ten con el tono de dignidad que les convenia ; pero sin otro fruto
que el de poner a la luz lo poco que debian prometerse de la
liberalidad del Gobierno Espafiol.
Importante como es a la humanidad enters, la gran question
que se ha estado agitando por tres anos entre la Espana y sus
colonias, lo es doblemente para la Inglaterra en el estado de
obstruction en que se halla el comercio. Sin embargo las prensas
Britdnicas no han hecho " hasta ahora" otra cosa, que estampar
sobre las revolutiones Americanas una serial de reprobation, pre-
sentandornos solamente miras superficiales y hechos alterados, y
esto casi siempre con el colorido de la preocupacion 6 de la
malignidad : de modo que aun las causas y la tendentia de las re
volutiones han sido groseramente desconocidas 6 desfiguradas.
Question es esta sin embargo, que el estadista ocupado en asegurar
la salud de los Pueblos, 6 promover los grandes intereses de los
Estados, no debe mirar con indiferencia. Si hay alguna que me-
rezca un examen atento y desapasionado, es sin duda la que pre-
sentan- los adjuntos documentos autenticos, que nos atrevemos a
ofrecer al publico con la «egura esperanza de que senviran d lo
menos para la mas compkta y correcta inteligencia de la materia.
Limitados como estamos a unas pocas pdginas de observaciones
preliminares, no nos es posible discuth- plenamente una question
tan complicada, ni dar una idea adeqiiada de todas tas ckcum-
stancias que han acompafiado a la primera expresion delos sen-
timientos publicos, en las vaiias provincias de las Americas Espa-
iiolas, acerca de su dependencia de la metropoli ; pero basta poner
la vista en la maraviltosa cointidencia de sucesos que han ocurrido
en -todas, parahacerse cargo dela generalidad de ideas, y para co-
nocer que todos aquellos pueblos eran igualmente sensibles al
estado de abatimiento en quesehallaban sepultados, y cuya pron
ta reforma era el deber esencial delas primeras autoridades dela
nation. Anadiremos sin embargo, alganas pocas considerations
que serviran para ilustrar el asunto.

PRELIMINARY REMARKS.

and interesting settlements equally felt the electric Shock, for
political, like human bodies, seem naturally destined to ise
from irrational to rational life ; and confident of the justice of
their demands, they asked redress, but it was denied.

Important as is the great queston that for three years has
been agitating between Spain and .her Colonies, and donbly so
to England, in her present cramped state of trade; by the
public prints it has been nevertheless branded with censure and
reprobation ; they have presented us with nothing but superficial
views of disguised facts, often treacherously exaggerated, oftener
cloathed in the language of unwarrantable anticipation and
unfounded prejudice ; nay the causes and circumstances appear
rather to have been completely misunderstood. This is never
theless a question addressed to the statesman busied in the
welfare, and charged with the great interests of mankind ; it is
one that well deserves the test of dispassionate enquiry, and
deliberate contemplation, and it is hoped that the following
authentic statements will aid to its more correct, and more
general comprehension.

Confined as we are to a few pages of preliminary remarks, it
would not be possible fully to discuss so complicated a question,
or to give an adequate idea of all the circumstances attending the
first expressions of public feeling in every division of Spanish
America, respecting their relative situation of dependent colo
nies ; but from there being a co-incidence in all, it is proved,
that the same sentiments are general, and that every section was
sensible of the abject state to which all were sunk, which it
be«arae the duty of the first magistracy of the nation to reform.
We will, however, subjoin a few illustrative considerations.

VI OBSERVACIONES PRELIMINARES.
La primera qiiestion y la mas importante que se ofrece al
tratarlo es, si los establecimientos Espafioles al tiempo de la pri
mera invasion de Espana por los exercitos Franceses, y de la diso-
lucion de la, monarquia, requerian, 6 no, por la situation en que
se hallaban, la reforma de su regimen administravivo ; si la so-
licitaron, y si les fue concedida. Demasiado notorio es al publico
Europeo el estado de miseria y degradacion d que se les habia
reducido : nuestros Escritores nacionales y los de la nation Fran-
cesa han tocado demasiadas veces esta materia, para que nos
sea necesario detenernos en ella; baste decir que el pueblo gemia
baxo la doble opresion de la Corona y del monopolio ; gravosas
k irracionales restritiones agoviaban a todas las clases, y sofo-
caban en elias toda especie de actividad y de industria ; las leyes,
extraviadas de su ben£fico objeto, no Servian ya para el castigo
del culpable, ni para la protection del inocente ; actos de la
mas barbara arbitrariedad se veian a cada paso y por todas
partes ; los nativos carecian de una equitativa participation
en los empleos de confianza 6 de lucro;* prevalecia un sis-
tema de gobierno tan ignomini6so a los codigos de Espana, y
de las Indias, como contrario a los mas esenciales derechos del
genero humano, y opuesto d los dictados de la justicia y de la
razon : en una palabra, la condicion de los Americanos apenas
podia considerarse baxo otro aspecto, que como un vasallagc
feudal dela Espana. <Quien ignora los vacios inmensos que
existian en todos los ramos de industria, ocasionados por la
grosera ignorancia de los mas comunes inventos, destinados d
* Como una prueba de la poca parte que" los Espanoles Americanos
tenian en los oficies de distincion de au propio pais, anadimos la siguiente
lista de laB pesoDas que han estado alii empleadas desde la conquista.
Sitropeos. Americanos.
Arzobispos y Obispos  7U2  278
Vireyes ..,.  „,. j66  A
Capltanes Generates y Gobernadores 588  14
1456 296

Vease el Censor Extraoidinario, Cadiz Enero 96, 1810.

1 ,_r.i.IMINARY REMARKS. Vll
the fust and most material question that occurs in treating the
subject, is, whether or not, the Spanish Settlements at the time
of the entry of the French into Spain, and of the dissolution
of the Monarchy, from their situation, required redress and a
reform of government ; and next, whether they asked it, and
were denied. Too much is already known to the European
public, and the degraded state of the colonies has been the too
frequent theme of our own writers, as well as those of the
French, to make it necessary here to give any picture of the
state of these said colonies, or of the manner in which they
were governed ; suffice it to say, that the people were oppressed
by the crown, and by monopolies ; the commonalty and pea
santry groaned under burdensome aud unreasonable restrictions,
destructive of all enterprize ; the laws did not inflict punishment
on the guilty, nor afford protection to the innocent ; arbitrary
acts were common ; the natives were debarred* from a fair par
ticipation in offices of trust and emolument ; a system of govern
ment prevailed, disgraceful to the Statute books of Spain and
the Indies, opposed to the common rights of mankind, and
hostile to the dictates of truth and reason ;f the Americans in
short, could be considered in no other state than in that of
feudal vassallage to Spain. Who is there unapprized of those
chasms which existed in the branches of industry, occasioned
by wanton ignorance, by which great masses of labour were
* As a proof how little the Spanish Americans shared in the offices
of distinction in their own country, we add the following statement of
persons who have been in command there, since its settlement :
Eurcfiatts. Amirkans,
Archbishops and Bishops  702  278
Viceroys  166  4
Captains General and Presidents . . 588  14
1456 296
Vide El Censor Evtraordinario. — Cadiz, Jan. 26, 1812.
+ The Viceroys Held in their owo hands, the Executive, Legislative,
and Military Powers

Till 0BSERVAC10NES PRELIMINARY.
Eimplificar 6 disminuir los esfuerzos del hombre ? Quien no ha
visto en la mayor parte de los reglamentos coloniales de Espana
un sistema de monopolio, dictado por el injusto principio de pre-
ferencia d los pocos, y tan host.il d la fecundidad de las arte$,
como d las primeras bases de la sbciedad ?* Quien no ha visto
en ellos un plan seguido y completo de degradation, que se ex-
tendia aun a la prohibition delas escuelas mas necesarias ?f ¦
Estos son hechos que no pueden contradecirse por los mas
descarados panegiristas del poder arbitrario, ni paliarse por las
especiosas producciones de las prensas de Cadiz, empenadas en
probar las ventajas de la dependencia y del monopolio.
Que los Americanos han hecho repetidos esfuerzos para obte-
ner algunas reformas, y entre otras, alguna parte en la adminis
tration de sus intereses internos, es una cosa sufieientemente pro-
bada no solo por los primeros reclames de las respectivas munici-
palidades y Juntas, sino tambien por los diarios delas 'Cortes de
Cadiz. Las demandas de aquellos pueblos fueron definidas y pre-
sentadas al Gobierno Espafiol en 11 proposiciones el 16 de No-
vieinbre de 1810; estas se repitieron el 31 de Diciembre del
mismo ano, y se insisti6 de nuevo sobre elias el 1° de Argosto de
1811, en la bien conocida Representacion de la Diputacion Ame
ricana d las Cortes de Espana: pero nunca se les ha prestado la
atencion d que eran acrehedoras. Un estado de insensibilidad y
letargo parecio haberse seguido d las violentas convulsiones de
una revolution calamitosa, que hacia al Gobierno de Espana sordo
a los gritos y reclamaciones de una parte benemerita de la Mo-
narquia. Faltaba en aquel Gobierno un principio saludable y
* Los Vireyes tenian en sus manos los poderes Executivo, legislativo
y militar. + Es un hecho que no obstante las instancias de la municipalidad
universidad, y todoS los cnerpos represenlativos, no se permitifi en Ca-
racas ensenar matematicas, tener imprenta, escuela dp pilotage, ni clase
de derecno publico, ni se tolerO que hubiese universidad en Merida uaa
de las Provincias de Venezuela. En Buenos Ayres y en otras partes
han existido ignaler resrricionei.

PRELIMINARY REMARKS. IX
suspended, ; who is there that has not beheld a system of mo
nopoly, generated by a false principle of preference to few, but
hostile to productive labour, and destructive to the basis of
society ; a systematic plan of debasement extending even to the
prohibition of the necessary schools ;* these are all facts which
the most unblushing advocates for arbitrary power cannot deny,
nor can they ever be palliated by the ingenious and specious
pieces written in Cadiz to prove the utility and. advantages of
dependence and monopoly.

That repeated efforts were made for a reform of government,
and to obtain the right of legislating locally for themselves in
their own concerns, is proved, not only by the applications of
the respective American municipalities and Juntas, but also br
the Journals of the Cortes and their Debates. The claims of
the Americans, were defined and laid before the Spanish Go
vernment, in eleven propositions on the 16th November, 1810,
they were repeated on the 31st December, and again on the 1st
of August, 1811, in the well known Representation de la De
putation Americana a las Cortes de Espana, but were never
attended to. A torpor seemed to have succeeded to distress, and
to the violent convulsions of a calamitous revolution, which ap
peared to render the government deaf to the just cries and
appeals of a well deserving moiety of the nation ; there was
wanting a healing and cementing principle of benevolence, nor

* It is a fact that notwithstanding the remonstrances of the munici
pality, the university .and all the representative bodies, in Caracas, it was
not allowed to teach mathematics, to have a printing-press, a school for
the tuition of navigation, or the study of jus publicum ; and that in Me-
rida, one of the provinces of Venezuela, an university was not tolerated.
In Buenos Ajres, and in other parts, similar restrictions existed,

X 0BSE-RVAC10NES FRELIMIN ARES.
.contiljador, y no aparece hasta el dia entre sus actos una niedida
calculada para curar les males, 6 reunir los partidos.
Si los pvimeros Gobiernos de Espana hubitran poscido talentos,
mi ras imparciales, y sobre todo, virtudes proporcionadas al poder
de que estuvieron revestidos en las piimeras epocas de la revolu
tion, era tal el entusiasmo de que se habian penetrado los Amen-
casos, que podian haber sido unidos a. la metropoli con los vin-
culos de la mas cordial fratemidad, y haberle conferido beneficios
tan importantes, como requeria la humanidad, como dictaban la
prudencia y la politica, y como por un principio de gratitud no
habiera dexado de producitios el goce mismo de sus derechos.
Pero desgraciadamente para unos y otros, y todavia mas para la
causa comurffno se hizo ningun caso ni de lo que importaba la
Espana transalantica, ni de lo que la era debido. Habia llegado
d los ojos de la justicia y de la .razon el momenta de colocarse
ambos Continentes sobre un pie de ignaldad, y con todo no se
ofrecian refoimas en el sistema gubernativo de las colonias ; no
se presentaba perspectiva alguna de consuelo; el antiguo odio a
la ilustracion y a la prosperidad era todavia el seatimiento habi
tual de la administration Espanola. Mutua desconfianra y ani-
mosidad prevaletian ; y un espiritu inextinguible de resentimi-
ento se encendio por fin. El Gobierno de Espana parecia ente-
ramente destituido de aquellos ilustrados principios, que no ven
el bien particular sino como una conseqiiencia del general: la
exclusion de aquellos beneficios que pertenecen a todos, y no a
una portion particular de la sociedad, se habia hecho y conti-
nuaba siendo fundamental y sistematica. Los clamores de los
Americanos se dirigian a remover males extensos, inveterados,
intolerables; lo que era en ellos un derecho, era al mismo tiempo
una rhedida de politica national; y si quando comenzaron
aquellas demandas a discutirse, la salud general hubiera sido el
objeto de las autoridades Espaiiolas, el conformuise a las reglas
de la mas liberal filantropia les hubiera proporcionado medio de
perpetuar la union entre las dos grandes porciones de la Monar-
quia, y de aumentar al mismo tiempo la fuerza total.

PRELIMINARY REMARKS.

is there up to the present day, a proper measure of redress or
of conciliation, on record.

Had the early governments of Spain, possessed talents, and
disinterested views and virtues, suited to their power, in the
firet stages of the revolution, such was the enthusiastic spirit
which pervaded the breast of every American, that they might
have had them united as brothers, and besides have conferred
upon them the most important blessings, such as humanity dic
tated, such as prudence and policy urged, and s^ucli as their
own rights entitled them to. Unfortunately for both nations,
and sfTll more so for the common cause, the long neglected
claims of the Americans remained unheard ; in the eye of
reason andjustice that period had arrived, in which both conti
nents were to be placed on au equal footing ; yet no redress or
reform was offered, every avenue to a fair restoration was closed,
and there appears to have been a decided opposition to every
revival of light, and to every restitution of happiness and equa
lity. Mutual distrust and animosity gradually were engendered,
an inextinguishable spirit of resentment at length flamed, and
there appeared nothing left in the governments of Spain, of
those enlightened principles which are always directed to the
general, and not particular interests ; an apathy followed, joined
to a systematic exclusion from those diffused enjoyments which
belonged to the whole, and not to the detached portions of a
nation. The claims of the Americans tended to remove exten
sive, inveterate, and galling ills ; this besides a right, became
a measure of national policy, and when first agitated, if the welfare
of the people had been really the object of the rulers in Spain,.
by merely following the dictates of an enlarged philanthropy,
we repeat, that they might have associated their American bre-
hren, by which they would have given force to those parts, they
have now disjointed.

SU OBSERVACIONES PRELIMINARES.
No podemos detenernos d considerar los diferentes periodos
de hostilidad, de agresion mutua, y de completa enemistad, que
se han seguido posteriormente ; pero apareceran con suficiente
claridad en las declaraciones oficiales dc aquellos departamentos,
que han sido reducidos al extremo de una absoluta separation,
y quiza no tenemos todavia en Ingles una colection de documen
tos que baxo este respecto nos ofrezea tantos datos como la pre-
sente. Venezuela ha sido la primera en romper las cadenas que
la ligaban d la Madre Patria, y al cabo de dos anos empleados
en vanos esfuerzos para obtener reformas y desagravios, despues
de haber sufrido quantos oprobios e indignidades pudi£ron acu-
mularse sobre ella, ha proclamado por fin aquel sagrado e incon
testable derecho que tiene todo pueblo para adoptar las medidas
mas conducentes d su bien estar interno, y mas eficaces para re-
peler los ataques del enemigo exterior.
La urgencia delas causas que la han compelido a esta medida
extrema aperce en el Manifiesto que dirige al mundo impartial ;
y la justicia de las miras de sus representantes, dirigidas d la
salud de sus constituentes, se echa tambien de ver en la Consti
tution formada para la formation y administration de las leyes,
como en el resultado de sus declaraciones solennes. Es esta una
era nueva, en que los habitantes de Venezuela han visto por la
primera vez definidos sus derechos y aseguradas sus libertades ;
un periodo importante y extraordinario,' en que sus mandatarios
y jueces se han hecho responsables a ellos solos por su futura con-
ducta; pero aunque es inmensa la transition de su anterior aba-
timiento al estado de dignidad en que hoy comparecen, se verd
el mismo tiempo que los naturales de la America Espanola estan
generalmente tan bien preparados para gozar de los bienes a que
aspiran, como los de la nation que desea prolongar su tirania
sobre ellos ; y en los documentos que componen este volumen,
no se hallardn ni principios menos grandes, ni consequencias
menos justas, que en las mas celebres medidas de las Cortes,
euya liberalidad y filantropia es harto inferior k la de los

PRELIMINARY REMARKS. xiii
It is not iu our power to enter into the different stages of
open hostility, mutual aggression, and growing enmity, that
have since been followed up; they are better seen from the
official declarations of those sections, which have been driven to
the extreme of separation ; and perhaps no collection of do
cuments is more explanatory thereof, than the following.
Venezuela has been the first to break entirely the fetters
which bound her to the mother country, and after three years
expended in vain efforts of redress, and after bearing with
every degradation aud indignity that could be heaped upon
her, she has asserted that undoubted right, which every people
has, to interpose and to adopt such measures, as are most
conducive to their own internal welfare, and the most effective
to repel foreign attack.
That imperious causes have compelled her to this step,
to this last alternative, is seen by the manifesto' she addresses
to the, impartial world, and that the exertions of the repre
sentatives of the people are directed to the well-being of
their constituents, is also evinced, by the constitution, framed
for the administration of law, as well as from the results of their
other solemn deliberations. It is indeed, an sera, new to the
inhabitants of Venezuela, to see their rights defined, and their
liberties secured ; it is a period novel aud extraordinary, to
behold their rulers and judges become answerable to them alone
for their conduct ; but though the transition from the abject
state in which they lately drooped, to the dignified one in which
they now stand, is great, it will nevertheless be found, that the
natives of Spanish America, are generally as well prepared to
share and enjoy the blessings at which they have aimed, a*
those of the nation, which seeks to prolong its sway over them;
and the documents composing this volume, will be found as well
constructed, as well argued, and in every sense as sound, as any
of the boasted measures 6f the Cortes, and they exceed them in
liberality and philanthropy. To every mind, pure and unpreju-

xiv . OBSERVACIONES PRELIMINARES.
Americanos. Todo espiritu recto y despreocupado vera las
ocurrencias de" Venezuela como honestos y equitativos resuita-
dos de los deseos del pueblo, dirigidos d la comun seguridad y
bien estar ; ni les que animados por el interes de la politica Es-
pafiola, se empeiian en acumular pretestos para peipetuar la de-
pendencia, pueden ofrecer una sola razon de necesidad 6 justi-
cia, capaz de sufrir un examen desapasionado, a menos que se
pretenda ser prefeiible la miseria y envilecimiento de los pueblos,
a su libertady prospetidad.
Al adoptar la resolution de hacerse independiente, sabia sin du-
da Venezuela, que iba a provocar toda la colera de sus enemigos,
y de quantos estaban interesados en la perpetuidad de sii de-
pendencia ; pero es de esperar de la ilustracion y liberalidad
de este pais que tan mezquinos sentimientos no tendran
cabida en sus habitantes, y que no faltan entre ellos hombres
que miren con el placer mas vivo y puro los progresos de la
libertad general, y la extension de la felicidad del genero hu
mano. Ha sido un principio generalmente reconocido en Europa,
y de que se gloria en especial la nation Inglesa, que hay en el
pueblo derechos cuyo inestimable goze debe inspirar d sus posee-
dores la mas rezelosa vigilancia para asegurarlos contra las ase-
chanzas del poder, y para reparar las brechas que el mas perfecto
sistema de gobierno, por una consequencia de la naturaleza de todas
las instituciones humanas, no puede menos de sufrir con el curso
del tiempo. ; Y se pretendera que a solos los habitantes de las
Americas deben rehusarse tales derechos, y por consequencia el
de velar sobre su integridad ? Se les exigira que para la distri*
bucion de justicia hayan de atravesar un oceano de dos mil
leguas, y que en mementos tan criticos como el actual, subsistan
desnudos de todas las afribuciones de los seres politicbs, y de- v
pendan de otra nation, que un enemigo poderoso amenaza ani-
quilar ? Se querrd enfin que las colonias Espanolas, como una
nave sin timon, queden expuestas d los rudos embates de la mas
furiosa tempestad politica, y prontas d ser la presa de la pri
mera nation ambiciosa que tenga bastante fuerza para apode-
rarse de elias ?

PRELIMINARY REMARKS. XV
diced, the occurrences of Venezuela, will appear as the fair and
honest result of a wish on the part of the people to insure to
themselves the greatest security and happiness ; nor can any
opposite allegations of national policy, for a longer dependence,
without redress, be urged, that will bear the test of candour and
of reason, unless it can be proved, that a country becomes more
interesting by being debased, than when rendered free and pros
perous.

In adopting the resolution of becoming independent, Vene
zuela was no doubt aware, that she was about to provoke all the
thunder of her enemies, of those who are interested in the con
tinuation of her subjection ; but, it is hoped, that this is a country
too liberal, and too enlightened for such narrow sentiments here
to exist, and that it contains men, who feel the warm effusions
of pleasure, to see advanced the cause of general liberty, and the
extension of human happiness. In Europe, it has ever been
an avowed maxim, and particularly the boast of the En
glish nation, that on the part of the people there is a right, and
that it requires all the watchful jealousy which the inestimable
enjoyments of that right can inspire, to guard against the rapid
encroachments of power, and to repair the breaches, which even
the most perfect systems of government, like all other human
institutions, may, in the course of time, sustain. And can it be
argued, that the people of Spanish America are alone debarred
of that right ? Can it be supposed, that for the distribution of
justice, they are to traverse an ocean of two thousand leagues,
that in moments so critical they are to depend, as political no-r
things, on a nation, herself threatened with destruction from a
powerful foe ; and like a vessel deprived of her helm, left to be
buffeted by the rude tempests ready to assail them, and be ex
posed to become the prey of the first ambitious nation that may
have the strength to effect their conquest ?

XVI OBSERVACIONES PRELIMINARES.
El espiritu impartial, que examine atentamente los dos ladol
de la question, necesita de pocas pruebas para conocer con evi-
dencia, que las ideas que se esparcieron en las colonias sobre la
desesperada situacion de la Espana d la entrada de los Fran
ceses en la Andalucia, y el temor de ser arrastrados d caer en
manos de los usurpadores, fueron las causas principales de la
resolution tomada por los Americanos de no confiar mas tiempo
su seguridad a la administration de los Europeos, y de poner
sus negoeios al cuidado de Juntas 6 Asambleas ProvincialeS,
formadas al exemplo y por los mismos medios que las de Es
pana. Que habia motibo para desconfiar de los Vireyes y capi-
tanes Generales lo han probado los sucesos posteriores, pues no
han tenido reparo en proclamar la doctrina de que la America
debe correr igual suerte que la Peninsula, y que si la una
es conquistada, debe someterse la otra al mismo sefior. Los
xefes coloniales estaban preparados para esta ocurrencia, y
habiendo sido escogidos por el Principe de Paz, nada era mas
natural que el que volviesen a sus antiguas miras. i Era pues
razonable, era justo esperar, que despues de tan larga y funesta
experienftrL reposasen tranquilas las colonias sobre las virtudes
6 los tale nvos de tales xefes ; 6 era prudente el dexarlas a la
merced de unos hombres, cuyo unico interes era la conservacion
de sus empleos, garantida por los Franceses ; y por los partida-
rios Espanoles de estos ?
Los mayores escritores politicos de nuestro pais han establecido
como principio invariable, que las sociedades deben gobernarsc
por si mismas. Segun Locke, todo gobierno legitimo se deriv*
del consentimiento del pueblo, porque siendo los hombres natu-
ralmente iguales, no tiene ninguno de ellos derecho de injuria!
a los otros en la vida, salud, libertad 6 propiedades, y ninguno
de quantos componen la sotiedad civil esta obligado 6 sugete
al capricho de otros, sino solamente a leyes fixas y conocidasc
hechas para el beneficio de todos : no deben establecerse impu=
estos, sin el consentimiento de la mayoridad, expresado por el
pueblo mismo 6 por sus apoderados : los Reyes y Principes, los
Magistrados y Funcionarios de todas clases, no exercen otra au-

PRELIMINARY REMARKS. Xvii
To the impartial mind, and to him who has carefully
examined both sides of the question, much argument will not be
necessary, to make it evident, that the ideas which circulated in
the Settlements of the hopeless state of Spain, at the time
the French entered Andalusia ; to which was added the dread
of falling into the hands of the same usurpers, were the
chief causes of the Americans resolving no longer to trust to the
administration of their European governors, conceiving their own
affairs more secure when confided to their own assemblies or Jun
tas, whom they created, after the manner of the Provinces of
Spain. That they had cause to suspect the whole of the vicer&ys
and governors, has been proved by posterior events ; they all pro
claimed the doctrine, that America ought to share the same fate
as the Peninsula, and that when the one was conquered, the
other was to submit ; in short, the commanders abroad were pre
pared for this alternative, they had been previously chosen by the
Prince of Peace, and were ready to be moulded to the views-on
which he had acted. Was it therefore natural, was it reasonable,
after their own dear-bought experience, for these distant colonies
to have confidence in such chiefs ; was it prudent to leave them
selves to the mercy of men, who had no other interest iri-th'e coun
try, than to prolong the continuation of their command, which
had been secured to them by the French, and their Spanish par-
tizans. The greatest political writers of our own country have esta
blished, as an invariable principle, that " Societies ought to be
self-governed;" and it has been stated as the sentiments of
Locke, "that all legitimate government is derived from the con-
" sent of the people, that men are naturally equal, and that no
" one has a right to injure another in his life, health, liberty,
" or possessions, and that no man, in civil society, ought to be
" subject to the arbitrary will of others, but only to known and
" established laws, made by general consent, for the common
" benefit. That no taxes are to be levied on the people, without
" the consent of the majority, given by themselves, or by their
" deputies. That the ruling power ought to govern by declared
b

XV111 OBSERVACIONES PRELIMINARES.
toridad legitima, que la que les ha sido delegada por la nation;
y portanto, quando esta autoiidad no se emplea en el pro comu-
nal, tiene el pueblo el derecho de reasumii'la, sean quales fuerei
las manos en que estuviere colocada."
Estos inenagenables derechos son los que ha exercido Vene
zuela : sus habitantes han tornado la resolution de administrar
por si mismos sus intereses, y no depender mas tiempo de go-
bernantes, que contaban con entregarlos a Id Francia;* y las
paginas de la, historia no podran menos de recordar con apro-
bacion, eluso que en tales circumstancias ha hecho aquel pueblo
de sus derechos : derechos, otiya existencia ha sido reconida por
los Espanoles mas ilustrados, y entre otros por Don Gaspar
Jcvellanos, quien en el famoso dictamen presentado a la Junta
Central el 7 de Octubre de 1808, dice expiesamente: "que
quanclo un pueblo descubre la sociedad de que es miembro en
inminente peligro, y conoce que los administradores de aquella
autoiidad que debe gobernarle y defendeile estan sobornados y
esclavizados, entra natuialmente en la necesidad de defenderse
a si mismo, y de consiguiente adquiere un legitimo aunque ex-
traordinario derecho de insurreccion." j Se dira pues que tales
maxiinas, solo son fundadas para los Espanoles Europeos, y no
para los Americanos ?
Nuestro inimitable Locke nota justamente,f "que las revoluci-
ones no son nunca oca^ionadas por pequenos vicios en el manejo
de les negocios publicos." Grandes desaciertos en los que ad-
ministran, muchas leyes injustas y peinieiosas, y todos los des-
lices de la fragilidad humana son todavia poca parte para que el
pueblo se amritine 6 murmure; pero si una lai ga serie de abusos,
prevaricationes y artificios, que todos llevan un mismo camino,
hacen visible al pueblo un designio, de manera que todos resi-
entau el peso que los op rime, y vean el termino a que son con-
diicidos, is serd de extranar que se levanten y depositen el poder
en manos que les asegurn los objetos raia aue fue institudo el
* Leanse las ordenes de Joseph Napoleon a los diferentes gobiernos
d- America.
t Tratadj sobre el Gobierno civil, Lib. 3, lj. 225

PRELIMINARY REMARKS. xix
" and received laws, and not by extemporary dictates, and unde-
" termined resolutions. That kings and princes, magistrates,
" and rulers of every class, have no just authority but what is
" delegated to them by the people ; and which when not employ-
" ed for their benefit, the people have always a right to resume
" in whatever hands it may be placed."
It is of these sacred rights that the people of Venezuela
have availed themselves, they resolved to administer their own
concerns, to be no longer dependent on governors who were ready
to deliver them up to the French,* and in the eye of reason, and in
the pages of impartial history, they will be found to have acted
correctly. They have made use of that right which the most
enlightened Spaniards have acknowledged to exist, and Don Gas-
par Jovellanos, in the famous opinion which he laid before the
Central Junta on the 7th Oct. 1808, expressly says, " that when
" a people discovers the imminent danger of the society of which
" it is member, and knows that the administrators of the autho-
" rity who ought to govern and defend it, are suborned and en-
" slaved, it naturally enters into the necessity of defending itself,
" and of consequence acquires an extraordinary and legitimate >
" right of insurrection." And can it be argued, that these are
maxims only formed for the Spaniards of Europe, and that they
do not extend to the Americans.?
Our own inimitable Locke justly remarks, f " that revolu-
" tions happen not upon every little mismanagement of public
" affairs. Great mistakes in the ruling part, many wrong and
" inconvenient laws, and all the slips of human frailty, will be
" borne by the people without muting or murmer. But if a
" long train of abuses, prevarications, and artifices, all tending
" the same way, make 'he design visible to the people, and
" they cannot but feel what they lie under, and see whithei they
" are going, it is not to be wonde.ed, that they should then
" rouze themselves, and endeavour to put the rule into such
* Vide the orders from Joseph Napoleon to the different-governments
of America.
t- Treatise on Civil Government, Book 3, §.225.

XX OBSERVACIONES PRELIMINARES.
Gobierno, y sin los quales los hombres antiguos y las formas es-
peciosas estan tan lexos de valer algo, que mas bien deben
tenerse por mucho peores que el estado de naturaleza 6 de pura
anarquia, pues no son ni menos grandes ni menos inminentes los
males, al paso que el re'medio es mucho mas distante y dificil.
' Montesquieu establecio tambien como- una maxima, si no
como una ley inmutable, que " las naciones solo pueden
salvarse por la restauracion de sus principios perdidos." El
unico modo de efectuarlo que quedaba a los Americanos, era el
de tener gobernantes" de su propia eleccion, y responsables k
ellos por su conducta: con tales condiciones hubieran accedido
gustosos a formar una parte igual y consfitutiva de la na
tion Espaiiola. Solo, pues, el importance fin de su seguridad,
y el de libert'afse' de los males de una orfandad p61itica, induxe-
ron el pueblo de Venezuela d colocar su confianza eh un cuerpo
de PLepresentantes de su propia eleccion. El suceso feliz de sus
trabajos aparece en las declaraciones del pueblo mismo, y en el
contraste de Io que era el pais, y de lo que ya comienza a ser.
La futura seguridad de los habitantes esta vinculada en el zelo
de los miembros que fervorosamente se han consagrado al nuevo
orden de cosas, y que impelidos por el estimulo de la regenera
tion, parecen compefiise en las laudables tareas de.diiigir k
ilustvar la opinion publica, y en promover el bien general. El
sehtimiento poderoso del interes comun, y el zelo patri6tico
difundido por todas las clases, ha producido la mutacion, ha ex-
citado la energia del pueblo. Calloso debe ser a las mas dukes
y puras sensaciones, de que es susceptible el corazon del hombre
social, el que puede contemplar sin placer esta difusion general
de luz y patriotismo, que empieza a resglandecer de un extremo
al otro del continente Colombiano, y biilla sobre un pueblo se-
pultado pocos meses hi en las mas profundas tinieblae.
Que un pueblo capaz de dirigir al mundo'lbs sentimientos
contenidos en los adjuntos documentos, habiendo logrado salir
¦ del obscuro reyno del vasallage feudal, quiera baxar otra vez de
la cumbre de la dignidad y felicidad civil, a la miseria y des-
honra que acompanan al Gobierno despotico, parece una de las

PRELIMINARY REMARKS. XIX
" hands which may secure to them the ends for which govern-
" ment was at first erected; and without which, ancient names
" and specious forms, are so far from being better, that they
" are much worse than the state of nature, or pure anarchy, the
" inconveniencies being as great, and as near, but the remedy
" further off, and more difficult."
Montesquieu also established as a maxim, if not an immu
table law, "that nations can be saved only by the recovery of
their lost principles," and to effect this, the only mode left
to the Americans was, to have governors of their own choice,
answerable to them alone for their conduct ; and under sudh
circumstances they have always been ambitious of forming an
equal and component part of the Spanish Nation. It was there
fore for their o».vn security and in order to get out of the orphan
state in which they were plunged, that the people of Venezuela,
resolved to place their confidence in a body of Representatives
of their own choice, and that their labours have advanced the
public happiness, is evinced by the expressions of the people
themselves, by the contrasted state of what the country was, and
what it now is ; and that there is security for the future, may be
anticipated from the ardour of numbers who enthusiastically have
devoted tsemselves to the new order of things, and who actuated
by the stimulus of regeneration, appear to contend who shall be
foremost to guide and improve the public mind, and who shall
be most active in the defence and promotion of the public good.
A sense of common interests, and the general effect of patriotic
feeling has produced the change, has called forth the energies
of the people; and he must be callous to the glowings of humanity
who can contemplate without pleasure, this great effusion of
enlightened patriotic spirit, which already gleams from one ex
treme to the other of the Columbian Continent, and irradiates
a people, heretofore buried in the deepest gloom.
That a people, capable of addressing to the world such senti
ments, as are contained in the documents comprising this
volume, and that after emerging from the dark reign of feudal

XXii OBSERVACIONEO PREL1MINARES.
grandes quimeras que pueden ocunir a los visionaries polirieos,
$ Que diremos pues de los planes que hay en pie con el objeto
de remachar sus grillos ? A la Inglatena, colocada como se
halla en el mas eminente grado de prosperidad y poder, son par-
ticularmente interesantes los progresos de las sociedades en eco-
nomia; legislacion y civilization ; pero es un deber en su Gobi
erno promover el bien estar de unos paises que han dado tantas
pruebas de afecto hacia ella, que le pioporcionan consumo para
el quarto del total de sus manufacturas, y que le prometen mas
ricos retornos que ninguna otra nation. El exemplo que da
Venezuela al resto de la America Espanola es como la Aurora
de un dia sereno. \ Oxala que ninguna ocurrencia siniestra re-
tarde 6 impida los progresos de una causa, que tiene por objeto
esparcir los beneficios deuna regeneration civil hasta losultimos
confines de aquella hermosa portion de la tierra!

PRELIMINARY REMARKS. Xxiii
vassallage, they will ever again descend from the summit of fe
licity aud dignity to which they have attained, to the wretched
ness and dishonour attendant on despotic government, appears
the wild chimera of political visionaries. What then are we to
judge of the plans on foot, to rivet again their chains ? Placed
as England is, on the elevated political pinnacle on which she
now stands, it interests her to view the progress of societies in
economy, legislation, and civilization, and it becomes a sacred
duty to promote the well being of a country well affected to
wards her; which besides, affords a consumption of one fourth
of the whole of her manufactures, and offers in payment, richer
returns than any other nation. The period, in short, which
Venezuela presents to the rest of Spanish America, is, as the
dawn of a mild and serene day, and it is sincei ely to be hoped,
that no untoward events, will, in any way, retaid or impede her
progress in a cause that has for object, to spread the blessings
and benefits of regeneration and civil freedom, to the utmost
confines of that interesting division of the globe.

•• fr» t* •»- 4» «>• <~ *•• 4< «* ¦«"(..!-.«-*¦«-.•-?¦ •••(« •»*!-«

«.*•>•¦ «-*..«-*.

N. B. The English reader is requested in page 57, line 26,
for Good Friday, to read /fo/y Thursday, and also to bear iu
mind, that as the documents composing this volume are official,
it was necessary to render the version as literal as possible.
Any accidental typographical errors that may occur, it is hoped
will be attributed to the hurry of publication.

En el Nombre de Dios Todopoderoso^
NOSOTROS los Representantes de las Provincias
unidas de CARACAS, CUMANA, BARINAS,
MARGARITA, BARCELONA, MERIDA, y
TRUXILLO, que forman la Cpnfederacion Ameri
cana de Venezuela ["en el Continente Meridipnal, reu-
nidos en CongresP, y copsiderando la plena y absoluta
posesion de nuestros derechos, que recobramos justa
y legitimavriente desde el 19 de Abril de 1810, en con
sequencia de b Jornada de Bayona, y la ocupacion del
Trono Espanol, por la conquista y sucesion de otra
nueva Dinastia, constituida sinnuestro consentimiento:
queremos antes de usar de los derechos de que nos
tuvd privados la fuerza, por mas de tres siglos, y nos
ha restituido el orden politico de los acontecimientos
humanos, patentizar al Uni verso las razones, que han
emanado de estos mismos acontecimentps, y autorizan
el libre uso que varaos a hacer de nuestra Soberania.

Act of Independence.

In the Name of the All-powerful God,
WE the Representatives of the united Provinces
of CARACAS, CUMANA, VARINAS, MAR
GARITA, BARCELONA, MERIDA, and
TRUXILLO, forming the American Confederation
of Venezuela, in the South Continent, in Congress
assembled, considering the full and absolute posses
sion of our Rights, which we recovered justly and
legally from the 19th of April, 1810, in consequence
of the occurrences in Bayona, and the occupation of
the Spanish Throne by conquest, and the succession
of a new Dynasty, constituted without our consent :
are desirous, before we make use of those Rights, of
which we have been deprived by force for more than
three ages, but now restored to us by the political
order of human events, to make known to the world
the reasons which have emanated from these same oc
currences, and which authorise us in the free use we
are now about to make of our own Sovereignty.

No queremos, sin embargo, empezar alegando los
derechos que tiene todo pais conquistado, para recu-
perar suestada de Propriedad elndependencia: olvida-
mos generosamente la larga serie de males, agrayios y
privaciones, que el derecho funesto de conquista ha
causado indistintamente a todos los descendientes de
los Descubridores, Conquistadores y Pobladores de
estos paises, hechos de peor condicion, por la misma
razon que debia favorecerlos ; y corriendo un velo so
bre los trescientos avios de dominacion Espanola en
America, solo presentaremos los hechos autenticos y
notorios, que han devido desprender y han desprendi-
do de derecho a. un mundo de otro, en el trastorno,
des6rden y conquista que tiene ya, disuelta la nacion
Espanola. Este deSorden ha aumentado lbs males de la Ameri
ca, inutilizandole los recursos y reclamaciones, y au-
torizando laimpunidad delos Gobernantes de Espana,
para insultar y oprimir esta parte de la nacion, dexan-
dola sin el amparo y garantia de las Leyes.
Es contrario al orden, imposible al Gobierno de
Espana, y funesto a. la America, el que teniendo esta
un territorio infinitamente mas extenso, y una Pobla-
cionintomparablementemas numerosa, dependay este
sugeta a unangulo Peninsular del Continente Europeo,1
Las Sesiones y Abdicaciones de Bayona ; las Jor-
nadas del Escorial, y de Aranjuez, y las Ordenes del
lugar Teniente, Duque de Berg, a la America, debi-
eron poner eii uso los derechos que hasta entonces ha-

We do not wish, nevertheless, to begin by alledg-
mg the rights inherent in every conquered country, to
recover its state of property and independence ; we
generously forget the long series of ills, injuries, and
privations, whicli the sad right of conquest has indis
tinctly caused, to all the descendants of the Disco
verers, Conquerors, and Settlers of these Countries,
plunged into a worse state by the very same cause that
ought to have favoured them ; and, drawing a veil
over the 300 years of Spanish dominion in America,
we will now only present to view the authentic and
well-known facts, which ought to have wrested from
one world, the right over the other, by the inversion,
disorder, and conquest, that have already dissolved the
Spanish Nation.
This disorder has increased the ills of America, by
rendering void its claims and remonstrances, enabling
the Governors of Spain to insult and oppress this part
of the Nation, thus leaving it without the succour and
guarantee of the Laws.
It is contrary to order, impossible to the Govern
ment of Spain, and fatal to the welfare of America,
that the latter, possessed of a range of country infi
nitely more extensive, and a population incomparably
more numerous, should depend and be subject to a
Peninsular Corner of the European Continent.
The Cessions and Abdications at Bayona, the Re
volutions of the Escurial and Aranjuez, and the Or*
ders of the Royal Substitute, the Duke of Berg, sent
to America, suffice to give virtue to the rights, which

biart sacrifkado los Americanos, a. la unidad e inte-
gridad de la nacion Espanola
Venezuela antes que nadie reconocio, y cqnservd
generosamente esta integridad por no abandonar la
causa de sus hermanos, mientras tuvo la menor apa-
riencia de salvacion.
La Ameiica volvio a existir de nuevo, desde que
pudo y debio tomar a. su cargo su suerte y conser-
vacion ; como la Espana pudo reconocer, 6 no, los
derechos de un Rey que habia apreciado mas su exist-
encia que la dignidad de la nacion que gobernaba. *
Quantos Borbones concurrieron a, las invalidas
estipulaciones de Bayona, abandonando el territorio
Espanol, contra la voluntad de los Pueblos, faltaron,
despreciaron, y hollaron el deber sagrado, que contra-
xeron con los Espanoles de ambos mundos, quando
con su sangre y sus tesoros, los colocaron en el Trono
a despecho de la casa de Austria ; por esta coaducta,
quedaron inhabiles, e incapaces de gobernar a. un
Pueblo libre, a quien entregaron como un rebailo de
Esclavos. Los intrusos Gobiernos que se abrogaron la Re-
presentacion nacional, aprovecharon [perfidamente
las disposiciones, que la buena fe, la distancia, la
opresion, y la ignorancia, daban a los Americanos
contra la nueva Dinastia, que se in troduxa en Es
pana por la fuerza ; y contra sus mismos principios
sostuvieron entre ncsotros la ilusion a favor de Fer-
aarido, para devoraraos y vexarnos impunemente

till then the Americans had sacrificed to the unity and
integrity of the Spanish Nation.
Venezuela was the first to acknowledge, and gene
rously to preserve, this integrity ; not to abandon the
cause of its brothers, as long as the same retained the
least hope of salvation.
- America was called into a new existence, since she
could, and ought, to take upon herself the charge of
her own fate and preservation ; as Spain might ac
knowledge, or not, the rights of a JCing, who had
preferred his own existence to the dignity of the Na
tion over which he governed.
All the Bourbons concurred to the invalid stipula
tions of Bayona, abandoning the country of Spain,
against the will of the People ;— they violated, dis
dained, and trampled on the sacred duty. they had
contracted with the Spaniards of both Worlds, when
with their blood and treasure they had placed them on
the Throne, in despite of the House of Austria. By
such a conduct, they were left disqualified and inca
pable of governing a Free People, whom they deli
vered up like a flock of Slaves.
The intrusive Governments that arrogated to them
selves the National Representation, took advantage of
the dispositions which the good faith, distance, op
pression, and ignorance, created in the Americans,
against the new Dynasty that had- entered Spain by
means of force ; and, contrary to their own princi
ples, they sustained amongst us the illusion in favour
of Ferdinand, in order to devour and harass us with

quartdd mas nos prometian la libertad, la igualdad y
la fraternidad, en discursos pomposos y frases estu-
diadas, para eacubrir el lazo de una representacioii
amaftada, kutil y degradaute.
Luego que se disolvieron, substituyerort y destruye-
eon entre si las varias formas de Gobierno de Espana,
y que la ley imperiosa de la necesidad, dictd a Vene
zuela el Conservarse a si misma, para ventilar y con-
servar los derechos de su Rey, y ofrecer un asilo a
sus hermanos de Europa, contra los males que les
amenazaban, se desconocio toda su anterior conducta,
se variaron los pfincipios, y se llamo insurreccion,
perfidia h ingratitud, a lo mismo que sirvio de nor
ma a los Gobiernos de Espaiia, por que ya se les
Cerraba la puerta al monopolio de administracion,
que querian perpetuar a nombre de un Rey imagi-
nario. A pesar de nuestras protestasy de nuestra modera-
cion, de nuestra generosidad, y de la inviolabilidad
de nuestros principios, contra la voluntad denuestros
hermanos de Europa, se nos declara en estado de re-
belion ; se nos bloquea ; se nos hostiliza ; se nos
envian agentes a amotinarnos tinos contra otros, y
se procura desacreditarnos entre todas las naciones
de Europa, implorando sus auxilios para oprimirnos.
Sin hacer el menor aprecio de nuestras razones, sia
presentarlas al imparcial juicio del mundo, y sin otros

9
impunity : at most, they promised to us liberty, equa-.
lity, and fraternity, conveyed in pompous discourses
and studied phrases, for the purpose of covering the
snare laid by a cunning, useless, and degrading Re
presentation. As soon as they were dissolved, and had substituted
and destroyed amongst themselves the various forms
of the Government of Spain ; and as soon as the im
perious law of necessity had dictated to Venezuela
the urgency of preserving itself, in order to guard
and maintain the rights of her King, and to offer an
asylum to her European brethren against the ills that
threatened them ; their former conduct was divulged :
they varied their principles, and gave the appellations
of insurrection, perfidy, and ingratitude, to the same
acts that had served as models for the Governments of
Spain ; because then was closed to them the gate to
the monopoly of administration, which they meant
to perpetuate under the name of an imaginary King j
Notwithstanding our protests, our moderation, ge
nerosity, and the inviolability of our principles,
contrary to the wishes of our brethren in Europe,
we were declared in a state of rebellion ; we were
blockaded ; war was declared against us ; agents were
sent amongst us, to excite us one against the other,
endeavouring to take away our credit with the other
Nations' of Europe, by imploring their assistance to
oppress us.
Without taking the least notice of our reasons,
without presenting them to the impartial judgment of

10
jueces^ que nuestros enemigos, se nos condena 4 una
dolorosa incomunicacion con nuestros hermanos ; y
para afiadir el desprecio a la calumnia se nos nom-
bran apoderados contra nuestra expfesa voluntad,
para que en sus Cortes dispongan arbitrariamente de
nuestros intereses, baxo el influxo y la fuerza de nu
estros enemigos.
Para sofocar y anonadar los efectos de nuestra re-
presentacion, quando se vieron obligados a conce-
dernosla, nos sometieron a una tarifa mezquina y,
diminuta, y sugetaron a la voz pasiva de los Ayunta-
mientos, degradados por el despotismo de los Gober-
nadores, la forma de la eleccion : lo que era un insulto
a nuestra sehcillezy buena fe, mas bien que unaconsi-
deracion a nuestra incontestable importancia politica*
Sordos siempre 4 los gritos de nuestra Justicia, hari
procurado los Gobiernos de Espana^ desacreditar to
dos nuestros esfuerzos, declarando criminales, y sel-
lando con la infamia, el cadalso y^ la confiscacion,
todas las tentativas, que en diversas epocas, han he
cho algunos Americanos, para la felicidad de su pais*
como lo fue, la que ultimamente nos dicto la propia
seguridad, para no ser envueltos en el desorden, que
presentiamos, y conducidos a la horrorosa suerte, que
vamos ya a. apartar de nosotros para siempre : con esta
atroz politica, han logrado bacer a nuestros hermanos,
insensibles a nuestras desgracias, armarlos contra no
sotros, borrar de ellos las dulces impresiones de Ja

11
the world, and without any other judges than our
own enemies, we are condemned to a mournful in-
communication with our brethren ; and, to add con
tempt to calumny, empowered agents are named for
us, against our own express will, that in their Cortes
they may arbitrarily dispose of our intereets, under
the influence and force of our enemies.
In order to crush and suppress the effects of our
Representation, when they were obliged to grant it to
us, we were submitted to a paltry and diminutive
scale ; and the form of election was subjected to the
passive voice of the Municipal Bodies, degraded by
the despotism of the Governors : which amounted to
an insult to our plain dealing and good faith, more
than a consideration of our incontestibla political im
portance. Always deaf to the cries of justice on our part, the
Governments of Spain have endeavoured to discredit
all our efforts, by declaring as criminal, and stamping
with infamy, and rewarding with the scaffold and
confiscation, every attempt, which at different periods
some Americans have made, for the felicity of their
country : as was that which lately our own security
dictated to us, that we might not be driven into a state
of disorder which we foresaw, and hurried to that
horrid fate which we are about to remove for ever
from before us By means of such atrocious policy,
they have succeeded in making our brethren insensi
ble to our misfortunes; in arming them against us; in
erasing from their bosoms the sweet impressions of

12
amistad, y de la consanguinidad, y convertir en ene
migos, una parte de neustra gran familia.
Quando nosotros fieles a nuestras promesas, sacrifi-
eabamos nuestra seguridad y dignidad civil, por no
abandonar les derechos que generosamente conserva-
mos a Fernando de Borbon, hemos visto, que a las re-
laciones de la fuerza que le ligaban con el Emperador
de los Franceses, ha ahadido los vinculos de sangre y
amistad, por los que hasta los Gobiernos de Espana,
han declarado ya su rcsolucion, de no reconocerle sino
condicionalmente. En esta dolorosa alternativa hemos permanecido
tres anos en una indecision y ambigiiedad politica, tan
funesta y peligrosa, que ella sola bastaria a autorizar
la resolucion que la fe de nuestras promesas, y los
vinculos de la fraternidad, nos habian hecho diferir ;
hasta que la necesidad nos ha obligado a. ir mas alia
de lo que nos propusimo9, impelidos por la conducta
hostil, y desnaturalizada de los Gobiernos de Espana,
que nos ha relevado del juramento condicional, con
que hemos sido llamados a. la augusta representacioii
que exercemos.
Mas nosotros que nos gloriamos de fundar nuestro
proceder en mejores principios, y que no queremos
establecer nuestra felicidad sobre la desgracia de
nuestros semejantes, miramos, y declaramos como
amigos nuestros, compafieros de nuestra suerte, y
participes de nuestra felicidad, a los que unidos con
nosotros por los vinculos de la sangre, la lengua, y la
religion, han sufrido los rriismos males en el anterior

13
friendship, of consanguinity ; and converting into
enemies a part of our own great family.
At a time that we, faithful to our promises, were
sacrificing our security and civil dignity, not to aban
don the rights which we generously preserved to
Ferdinand of Bourbon, we have seen that, to the re
lations of force which bound him to the Emperor of
the French, he has added the ties of blood and friend
ship; in consequence of which, even the Governments
of Spain have already declared their resolution only
to acknowledge him conditionally*.
In this mournful alternative we have remained three
years, in a state of political indecision and ambiguity,
so fatal and dangerous, that this alone would suffice
to authorise the resolution, which the faith of our
promises and the bonds of fraternity had caused us to
defer, till necessity has obliged us to go beyond what
we at first proposed, impelled by the hostile and un
natural conduct of the Governments of Spain, which
have disburdened us of our conditional oath, by which
circumstance, we are called to the august representa~
tion we now exercise
But we, who glory in grounding our proceedings
on better principles, and not wishing to establish our
felicity on the misfortunes of our fellow-beings, do
consider and declare as friends, companions of our
fate, and participators of our relicity, those who,
united to us by the ties of blood, language, and re-
* He was at one time supposed to be married to a relation of
IJuonaparte.

14
orden ; siempre que reconociendo nuestra absoluta in-
depcndincia de el, y de toda otra denominacion extrafia,
nos ayuden a sostenerla con su vida, su fortuna y su
opinion, declarandolos" y rcconociendolos, (corao a.
todas las demas Naciones ) en guerra enemigos, y en
paz amigos, hermanos-, y coir.patriotas.
Enatenciona todas estas solidas, publicas, e incon-
tesables razones de politica, que tanto persuaden la
necesidad de recobrar la dignidad natural, que el
orden de los sucesos, nos ha restituido : en uso de los
imprescriptibles derechos que tienen los Pueblos, para
destruir todo pacto, convenio 6 asociacion que no
llena los fines para que fueron instituidos los Gobier
nos, creemos que no podemos ni debemos conservar
los lazos que nos ligaban al Gobierno de Eepaiia, y
que como todos los Pueblos del mundo, estamos
libres y autorizados, para no depender de otra autori-
dad que la nuestra, y tomar entre las Potencias de la
tierra, el puesto igual que el SER SUPREMO, y
la naturaleza nos asignan, y a que nos llama la
sucesion de los acontecimientos humanos, y nuestro
propio bien y utilidad.
Sin embargo de que conoccmos las dificultades que
trae consigo, y las obligaciones que nos impone el
rango que vamos a ocupar en el orden politico del
mundo, y la inflilencia poderosa de las formas y
habitudes a. que hemos estado, a nuestro pesar,
acostumbrados ; tambien conocemos que la vergonzosa
sumision a elias, quando podemos sacudirlas, seria
mas ignominioso para nosotros, y mas funesto para

15
ligion, have suffered the same evils in the anterior
order of things, provided they acknowledge our ab
solute independence, of the same, and of any other
foreign power whatever ; that they aid us to sustain it
with their lives, fortune, and sentiments; declaring
and acknowledging them (as well as to every other
nation, ) in war enemies, and in peace , friends, bro-
hers, and co-patriots.
In consequence of all these solid, public, and in-
contestible reasons of policy, which so powerfully
urge the necessity of recovering our natural dignity,
restored to us by the order of events ; and in compli
ance with the imprescriptible rights enjoyed by na
tions, to destroy every pact, agreement, or association,
which does not answer the purposes for which govern
ments were established ; we believe that we cannot,
nor ought not, to preserve the bonds which hitherto
kept us united to the Government of Spain; and that,
like all the other nations of the world, we are free,
and authorised not to depend on any other authority .
than our own, and to take amongst the powers of the
earth the place of equality which the Supreme Being
and Nature assign to us, and to which we are called by
the succession of human events, and urged by our own
good and utility.
Notwithstanding we are aware of the difficulties
that attend, and the obligations imposed upon us, by
the rank we are about to take in the political order of
the world ; as well as the powerful influence of forms
and habitudes, to which unfortunately we have been

16
Buestra posteridad, que nuestra larga y penosa servi-
dnmbre, y que es ya de nuestro indispensable deber
proveer anuestra conservaciori, seguridad, y felicidad,
variando esencialmente todas las formas de nuestra
anterior constitucion.
Por tanto, creyendo con todas estas razones satis-
fecho el respeto que debemos a las opinienes del
genero humano, y a la dignidad de las demas Naciones,
ea cuyo numero vamos a entrar, y con cuya comu-
nicacion y amistad contamos : nosotros los Represen-
tantes de las Provincias unidas de Venezuela, ponien-
do por testigo al Ser Supremo de la justicia de nues
tro proceder, y de la rectitud de nuestras intenciones ;
implorando sus divinos y celestiales auxilios, y ratifi-
candole, en el momento en que nacemos a la dignidad,
que su providehcia nos restituye el deseo de vivir, y
morir iibres, creyendo y defendiendo la Santa Catolica,
y Apostolica Religion de Jesu-Christo : Nosotros,
pues a nombre y con la voluntad, y autoridad que
tenemos del virtuoso pueblo de Venezuela, declara-
mos solemnemente al mundo, que sus Provincias
unidas, son y deben ser, desde hoy de hecho y de
derecho Estados Iibres, Soberanos e independientes, y
que estan absueltos de toda submision y dependencia
de la corona de Espana, 6 de los que se dicen, 6 dixe-
rcn apoderados 6 representantes, y que como tal Esta
do libre e independiente, tiene un pleno poder, para
darse la forma de Gobierno, que sea conforme a. la
voluntad general de sus pueblos, declarar la guerra,
hacer la paz, formar alianzas, arreglar tratados de

17
accustomed : we at the same time know, that the
shameful submission to them, when we can throw
them off, would be still more ignominious for us, and
more fatal to our posterity, than our long and painful
slavery ; and that it now becomes an indispensable
duty to provide for our own preservation, security,
and felicity, by essentially varying all the forms of
our former constitution.
In consequence whereof, considering, by the rea
sons thus alledged, that we have satisfied the respect
which we owe to the opinions of the human race, and
the dignity of other nations, in the number of whom
we are about to enter, and on whose communication
and friendship we rely : We, the Representatives of
the United Provinces of Venezuela, calling on the
SUPREME BEING to witness the justice of our
proceedings and the rectitude of our intentions, do
implore his divine and celestial help ; and ratifying,
at the moment in which we are born to the dignity
which his Providence restores to us, the desire we
have of living and dying free, and of believing and
defending the holy Catholic and Apostolic Religion
of Jesus Christ. We, therefore, in the name and
by the will and authority which we hold from the
virtuous People of Venezuela, DO declare solemnly
to the world, that its united Provinces are, and ought
to be, from this day; by act and right, Free, Sove
reign, and Independent States; and that they are
absolved from every submission and dependence on
the Throne of Spain, or on those who do, or may call
c

IS
comercio, limite y navegacion, hacer y executar todos
los demas actos que hacen y executan las Naciones
Iibres, e independientes. Y para hacer valida, fir me
y subsistente esta nuestra solemne declaracion, damoS
y empenamos rnutuamente unas Provincias a otras,
nuestras vidas, nuestras fortunas, y el sagrado de
nuestro honor nacional. Dada en el Palacio Federal
y de Caracas, firmada de nuestra mano, sellada
con el gran sello Provisional de la confederacion,
refrendada por el Secretario del Congreso, a cinco
dias del mes de Julio del afio de mil ochocientos once,
el primero de nuestra independencia. — Por la
Provincia de Caracas. — Ysidoro Antonio Lopez
Mendez, Diputado dela.Ciudad de Caracas. — Juan
German Roscio, por el partido de la Villa de Cala-
•t bozo. — Felipe Fermin Paul, por el partido de San
- Sebastian. — Francisco Xavier Uziariz, por el partido
» de Sari Sebastian — Nicolas de Castro, Diputado de
Caracas. — Juan Antonio Rodriguez Dominguez,
. Presidente, Diputado de Nutrias en Barinas. — Luis
. Ygnacio Mendoza, Vice Presidente, Diputado de
- Obispos en Barinas. — Fernando de Pefialver, Dipu-
. tado de Valencia. — Gabriel Perez de Pagola, Dipu-
-tado de Ospino. — Salvador Delgado, Diputado
de Nirgua. — El Marques del Toro, Diputado de la
r Ciudad del Tocuyo. — Juan Antonio Diaz Argote,
Diputado de la Villa de Cura. — Gabriel de Ponte,
- Diputado de Caracas..— -Juan Jose Maya, Diputado
. de San Felipe. — Luis Jose de Cazorla, Diputado de
^Valencia, — Dr. Jose Vicente Unda, Diputado de

19
themselves its Agents and Representatives ; and that
a free and independent State, thus constituted, has
full power to take that form of Government which
may be conformable to the general will of the People .
to declare war, make peace, form alliances, regulate
treaties of commerce, limits, and navigation ; and to
do and transact every act, in like manner as other free
and independent States. And that this, our solemn
Declaration, may be held valid, firm, and durable,
we hereby mutually bind each Province to the other,
and pledge our lives, fortunes, and the sacred tie of
our national honour. Done in the Federal Palace of
Caracas ; signed by our own hands, sealed with the •
great Provisional Seal of the Confederation, and
countersigned by the Secretary of Congress, this 5th.
day of July, 1811, the first of our Independence.— For
the Province of Caracas, Isidoro Antonio Lopez Men-
dez, Deputy of the City of Caracas. — Juan German
Roscio, for the district of the Town of Calabozo. — ¦
Felipe Fermin Paul, for the district of San Sebastian.
— Francisco Xavier Uztariz, for the district of San
Sebastian. — Nicolas De Castro, Deputy for Caracas:
— Juan Antonio Rodriguez Dominguez, President,
and Deputy for Nutrias in Barinas. — Luis Ignacio
Mendoza, Vice-President, Deputy of Obispos in Ba
rinas.— -Fernando de Pefialver, Deputy for Valencia.
—Gabriel Perez de Pagola, Deputy of Ospino.— Sal
vador Delgado, Deputy for Nirgua.— The Marquis
del Toro, Deputy for the City of Tocuyo.— Juan An
tonio Dias Argote, Deputy for the Town of Cura,— ;

20
Gfuanare. — Francisco Xavier Yanes, Diputado de
Araure. — Fernando Toro, Diputado de Caracas. —
Martin Tovar Ponte, Diputado de San Sebastian. —
Juan Toro, Diputado de Valencia. — Jose Angel de
Alamo, Diputado de Barquisimeto. — Francisco Her-
nandez, Diputado de San Carlos. — Lino de Clemente,
Diputado de Caracas. — -Por la Provincia de Cumana,
Francisco Xavier de Mayz, Diputado de la Capital.
—Jose Gabriel de Alcala, Diputado de idem. — Juan
Bermudez, Diputado del Sur. — Mariano de Ta Cova,
Diputado del Norte. — Por la de Barcelona — Francisco
Miranda, Diputado del Pao. — Franeisco Policarpo
Ortiz, Diputado de San Diego. — Por la de Barinas.
— Juan Nepomueeno de Quintana, Diputado de
Achaguas. — Ygnacio Fernandez, Diputado de la
Capital de Barinas. — Ygnacio Ramon Briceao, repre-
sentante de Pedraza. — Jose de Sata y Bussy, Dipu
tado de San Fernando de Apure. — Jose Luis Cabrera,
Diputado de Guanarito. — Ramon Ygnacio Mendez,
Diputado de Guasdualito. — Manual Palacio, Dipu
tado de Mijagual. — Por la de Margarita.-— Manual
Placido Maneyro^ — Por la de Merida.. — Antonio
Nicholas Briceno, Diputado de Merida.— Manuel
Vicente de Maya, Diputado de la Grita, — Por la de
Truxillo. Juan Pablo Pacheco — Por la. Villa de
Aragua Provincia de Barcelona. — Jose Maria Ra
mirez. Refrendado: Hay un sello, Francisco Is-
nardy, Secretario. -

21
Gabriel de Ponte, Deputy for Caracas. — Juan Joze
Maya, Deputy of San Felipe.— Luis Joze de Cazor-
la, Deputy of Valencia-— Dr, Joze Vicente Unda,
Deputy of Guanare. — Francisco Xavier Yanes, De
puty of Araure. — Fernando Toro, Deputy of Caracas.
— Martin Tovar Ponte, Deputy of San Sebastian, —
Juan Toro, Deputy of Valencia. — Jose Angel de
Alamo, Deputy for Barquisimeto.— Francisco Her
nandez, Deputy for San Carlos. — Lino De Clemente,
Deputy of Caracas.  For the Province of Cuma
na — Francisco Xavier de Mayz, Deputy for the
Capital. — Joze Gabriel de Alcala, Deputy for ditto.
— Juan Bermudez, Deputy for the South. — Mariano
de la Cova, Deputy for the North — For Barcelona —
Francisco Miranda, Deputy of Pao. — Francisco Po-
licarpo Ortiz, Deputy for San Diego. — For Barinas —
Juan Nepomuceno de Quintana, Deputy for Acha-
guas. — Ignacio Fernandez, Deputy for the Capital of
Barinas, — Ignacio Ramon Bricefio, Representative
of Pedraza. — Joze de Sata y Bussy, Deputy for San
Fernando de Apure. — Joze Luis Cabrera, Deputy for
Guanarito. — Ramon Ignacio Mendez, Deputy for
Guasdualito. — Manuel Palacio, Deputy for Mija-
gual. — For Margarita-— Manuel Placido Maneyro.—
For Merida, — Antonio Nicolas Bricefio, Deputy for
Merida. — Manuel Vicente de Maya, Deputy for La
Grita — For Truxillo Juan Pablo Pacheco — For the
Town of Aragua, in the Province of Barcelona. —
Joze Maria Ramirez. (Seal.) Legalised. — Fran- ,
cisco Isnardy, Secretary.

22

Decreto del Supremo Poder Executivo.
Palacio Federal de Caracas , 8 de Julio de 1811.
Por la Confederacion de Venezuela, ej Poder
Executivo ordena que la Acta antecedente sea Publi-
cada, Executada, y Autorizada con el Sello del
Estado y Confederacion. CRISTOVAL DE MENDOZA, Presidente en turno.
JUAN DE ESCALONA.
BALTAZAR PADRON.
MIGUEL JOSE SANZ, Secretarlo de Estado,
CARLOS MACHADO, Chanciller Mayor,
JOSE TOM AS SANTANA, Secretarlo de Decretors,
Aqui el Sello,

23

Decree of the Supreme Executive Power.

Federal Palace of Caracas, July 8, 1811.
For the Confederation of Venezuela,the Executive
Power ordains, that the antecedent Act be published,
executed, and authorised by the Seal of the State and
Confederation. CHRISTOVAL DE MENDOZA, President.
JUAN DE ESCALONA,
BALTAZUR PADRON,
MIGUEL JOSE SANZ, Secretary of State,
CARLOS MACHADO, Chancellor,
JOZE THOMAS SALTAN A, Secretary of Decree?,
{L.S)

ARTICULOS, COMPREHENDIDOS EN 1A
Declaration de la Sesion Legislatives
De 1° de JULIO, deISH,
SANCIONADA Y PUBLICADA.

Art. XXV.

TODOS los extrangeros de qualquiera nacion,
serin recibidos en la Provincia de Caracas.
XXVI.
LAS personas y las propiedades de los extrangeros,
gozaran de la misma seguridad que las de los demas
ciudadanos, con tal que reconozcan la Soberania e
independencia, y respeten la Religion Catholica,
unica en este pais. xxvii.
LOS extrangeros que residan en la Provincia de
Caracas, habiendose naturalizado, y siendo propie^
tarios gozaran de todos los derechos de ciudadanos,

ARTICLES COMPREHENDED IN THE
JDeclaration of the Legislative Session,
Of the 1st. JULY, 1811.
SANCTIONED AND PUBLISHED.

Art XXV.

ALL foreigners of whatever nation, will be receiv
ed in the province of Caracas. XXVI.
THE persons and properties of foreigners, shall en
joy the same security as those of the other citizens,
provided they acknowledge the Sovereignty and inde
pendence, and respect the catholic religion, tlie only
one in this country, XXVII.
THE foreingers who reside in the province of Ca
racas, being naturalized, and having the necessary
property shall enjoy all the rights of citizens.

26

ADVERTENCIA.
LA inmensidad de terrenos que hay en la Provincia
de Caracas : la abundancia de aguas perennes que los
fertilizan : la diversidad de frutos y su preciosidad,
ofrecen al hombre laborioso las mas grandes utilidades
en la agricqltura, La situacion geografica de una
grande extension de costas al frente de las Antillas y
demas Islas, . y el gran consumo de los Estados de
Venezuela, confederados con los de Cundinamarca 6
Santa Fe, franquean y facilitan su comercio, hacien-
dole el mas ventajoso del Universo. El caracter de
los habitantes inclinados a, la paz : la suavidad de sus
costumbres : la urbanidad de su trato : el afecto que
profesan a los extrangeros : y ultimamente labeaigni-
dad del clima, y una perpetua primavera, convidan
al hombre a fixarse en la Provincia de Caracas como
agricultor, artesano 6 comerciante. El Gobierno
interesado en protegcr a. todos, dara, tierras al que
quiera cultivarlas, y asegurara en sus respectivas pro-
fesiones a los que se dediquen al comercio, a, la in
dustria y a las artes. Solo perseguira y expulsara a
los genios turbulentos y ociosos que ponen su conato
en turbar la tranquilidad y sosiego de los que trabajan
y viven ocupados. El hombre laborioso y pacifico,
obtiene en Venezuela toda laproteccion del Gobierno,
y la estimacion del Puebjo.

27

OBSERVATION.
THE immense quantity of lands in the province of
Caracas, the abundance of perpetual streams which
fertilize them ; the diversity of productions and their
richness, offer to the industrious man the greatest ad
vantages in agriculture. The geographical situation of
a great extent of coast opposite the Antilles and other
Islands, the great consumption of the States of Vene
zuela, confederated with those of Cundinamarca or
Santa- Fe, open and facilitate a commerce the most
advantageous in the universe. The peaceable charac
ter of the inhabitants ; the mildness of their behaviour,
the regard they shew to foreigners ; and lastly the
mildness of the climate, it being a perpetual spring,
invite persons to settle in the province of Caracas,
as cultivators, artisans or merchants. The Govern
ment interested in protecting all, will give lands to
any person who may wish to cultivate them : and
will secure, in their respective professions, all those
who dedicate themselves to commerce, industry and
the arts ; it will alone prosecute and expel the turbu
lent and the idle, who apply themselves to disturb
ing the tranquility and peace of those who live oc
cupied. The industrious and peaceable man will
enjoy in Venezuela the protection of government and
the estimation of the people.

2S
Ademas se advierte que aunque el comercio de
negros esta prohibido en Venezuela, no comprehende
la prohibicion a. los extrangeros que vengan con sus
esclavos a establecerse con ellos, precisamente des-
tinados a la agricultura, 6 dedicados a. algun arte 6
profession util y ventajosa al Estado.
Miguel Jose Sanz,
Sec0, de Estado.

29
And it is also to be observed that notwithstanding
the importation of negroes is prohibited in Venezuela,
this does not include the foreigners who may come
with their slaves, to make agricultural establish
ments, or to pursue any art or profession useful and
advantageous to the state.
Michael Joseph Sanz,
SEcy. of State.

MANIFIESTO QUiE HACE At MUNDO
LA CONFEDERACION DE VENEZUELA,
EN LA AMERICA MERIDIONAL,
De las razones en que ha fundado su Absoluta In
dependencia de la Espana, y de qualquiera otra
denominacion extrangera.
Formado, y mandado. publicar por acue'rdo del Con-
greso General de sus Provincias- Unidas
Nunc quid agenum sit considerate

LA America condenada por mas de tres siglos a
no tener otra-existencia que la de servir aaumentar
la preponderancia politica de la Espana, sin la menor
influencia ni participacion en su grandeza, hubiera
llegado por el 6rdetf de unos sucesos en que no ha
tenido otra parte que el sufrimicnto, a. ser el garante
y la victima del desorden, corrupcion y conquista
que ha desorganizado a la nacion conquistadora, si
cl instinto de la propia seguridad no hubiese dictado

MANIFEST
MADE TO THE WOULD BY THE
CONFEDERATION OF VENEZUELA,
IN SOUTH AMEPaCA,
Of the reasons on which she has founded her Abso
lute Independence of Spain, and of every other
Foreign Power whatever.
Done and ordered to be Published by the General
Congress of the United Provinces.
Nunc quid sit agendum considerate

SPANISH America, condemned for more than three
centuries, to have no other existence than to serve to
increase the political preponderance of Spain, with
out the least influence or participation in her great
ness ; would eventually have arrived by the order of
events, in which she has had no other part than suf
ferance to. be the sure sacrifice and victim of that
same disorder, corruption, and conquest, which have
disorganized the nation that first conquered her ; if
the instinct of self-security had not dictated to the

32
a. los Americanos, que habia llegado el momento de
obrar, para coger el fruto de trescientos arias de in-
accion, y de pacieneia
Si el descubrimiento del nuevo mundo fue uno
de los acontecimientos mas interesantes a. la especie
humana, no lo sera menos la regeneracion de este
mismo mundo degradado desde entonces por la opre
sion y la servidumbre. La America levantaadose
del polvo y las eadenas, y sin pasar por las gradaciones
politicas de las Naciones, va a conquistar por su
turno al antiguo mundo, sin inundarlo, esclavizarlo,
ni embrntecerlo. La revolucion mas util al genero
humano, sera la de la America, quando constituida y
gobernada por si misma, abra los brazos para recibir
a los pueblos de la Europa, hollados por la politica,
ahuyentados por la guerra, y acosados por el furor
de todas las pasiones; sedientos entonces de paz y de
tranquilidad, atravesaran el oceano los habitantes del
otro hemisferio^ sin la ferocidad ni la perfidia de los
heroes del siglo 16 : como amigos, y no como tiranos :
como menesterosos, y no como seHoies: no para
destruir, sino para edificar: no como tigres, sino
como hombres que horror izados de nuestras antiguas
desgracias, y ensenados con las suyas, no convertiran
su razon en un instinto malefico, ni querran que
nuestros anales sean ya los anales de la sangre y la
perversidad. Entonces la navegacion, la geografia,
la astronomia, la industria y el comercio, perfecciona-
dos por el descubrimento de la America, para su mal,
se convertiran en otros tantos medios de acelerar, con-

33
Americans, that the moment of acting had arrived,
and that it was time to reap the fruits of three
hundred years of inaction and patience.
If the discovery of the new world was one of the
most interesting occurrences to the human race, no
less so will be the regeneration of this same world,
degraded from that period by oppression and servi
tude. America, raising herself from the dust, and
freed of her chains, yet without passing through the
political gradations of other nations, will, in her
turn, triumph over the old world, without inundating
it in blood, without enslaving or brutifying it. A
revolution the most useful to the human race, will be
that of America, when constituted and governed by
her own self, she shall open her arms to receive the
people of Europe; those who are trampled upon by
policy, fleeing from the ills of war, and persecuted by
the fury of the passions. In search of peace and tran
quillity, the inhabitants of the other hemisphere, will
then cross the ocean, not with the perfidy of the he
roes of the 16th century ; but, as friends, and not as
tyrants ; as men in need, not as lords ; not to destroy,
but to build ; not as tygers, but as men, who hor
ror-struck with our former misfortunes, and self-
taught by their own, will not convert their reason
into a malignant spirit, nor wish that our annals be
again those of blood, and wretchedness. Then shall
navigation, geography, astronomy, industry, and
trade, perfected by the discovery of America, though
ruinous to her, be converted into so many means to
D

34
solidar, y perfeccionar la felicidad de ambos mun-
dps. No es este un sueiio agradable, sino un homenage
que hace la razon a, la Providencia. Escrito estaba
en sus inefables designios que no debia gemir la
mitad de la especie humana baxo la tirania de la otra
mitad, ni habia de llegar el dia del ultimo juicio, sin
que una parte de sus criaturas goza.se de todos sus
derechos. Todo preparaba esta epoca de felicidad y
de consuelo. En Europa, el choque y la fermentacion
de las opiniones, el trastorno y desprecio de las leyes,
la profanacipn de los derechos que ligaban el Estado^
el luxo de las Cortes, la miseria de los campos, el
abandono de los talleres, el triunfo del vicio, y la
opresion de la virtud : en America, el aumento de la
poblacion, las necessidades creadas fuera de ella, el
desarollo de la Agricultura en un suelo nuevo y vigor
roso, el gprraen de la industria baxo un clima benefi-
co, los elementos de las ciencias en una organazion
privilegiada, la disposicion para un comercio rico y
prospero, y la robustez de una'adolescencia politica,
todo, todo aceleraba los progresos del mal en un.
mundo, y los progresos del bien en el otro.
Tal era la ventajosa alternativa que la America es-
clava presentaba al traves del oceano a su Senora la
Espana, quando agoviada por el peso de todos los.
males, y minada por todos los principios destructores
de las sociedades, le pedia que la quitase las cadenas
para poder volar a su socorro. Triunfaron, por des-

35
accelerate, consolidate, and perfect the felicity of
both worlds.
* . . . *
This is not a flattering d^eam but an homage, made
by reason to providence. It was written in her ineff
able designs, that one half of the human race should
no| groan under the tyranny of the other,nor could it be
supposed that the great fiat of the world's dissolution,
could arrive before one part of its creatures had en
joyed all their inherent rights. Every thing as been
iong preparing for this epoch of felicity and consola
tion. In Europe, the shock and fermentation of
opinions, the inversion and contempt of the laws, the
profanation of the bonds that hold together states,
the luxury of courts, the sterility of the fields, the
cessation of industry, the triumph of vice, and the
oppression of virtue ; whilst in America, the increase
of population, of foreign wants dependant on her, the
development of agriculture in a new and vigorous
soil, the germ of industry under a beneficent clime,
the elements of science under a priviledged organiz
ation, the means of arich and prosperous trade, and
the robustness of a political adelescence, all, all ac
celerated the progress of evil in one world, and that
of good in the other.
Such was the advantageous alternative, that enslav
ed America presented on the other side the ocean, to
her mistress Spain, when cast down by the weight of
every evil, and undermined by every destructive
principle of society, she called upon her to ease her
of her chains, that she might fly to her succour. Un-
D g

36
gracia, las preocupationes : el genio del mal y del
desorden se apodero de los gobiernos : el orgullo re-
sentido occupo el lugar deLfcalculo y de la prudencia :
]a ambicion triunfo de la iiberalidad : y substituyen-
do el dolo y la perfidia a la generosidad y la buena fe,
se volvieron contra nosotros las armas de que usamos,
quando impelidos de nuestra fidelidad y sencillez,
ensefiamos a la Espana el camino de resistir y triunfar
de sus enemigos, baxo las banderas de un Rey presun-
tivo, inhabil para reynar, y sin otros derechos que sus
desgracias y la generosa compasion de sus pueblos.
Venezuela fue la primera que juro a la Espana los
auxilios generosos que ella creiahomenage necesario :
Venezuela fue la primera que derramo en su afflic-
cion el balsamo consolador de la amistad y la fra-
ternidad sobre sus heridas : Venezuela fue la primera
que conocio los desordenes que amenazaban la destruc-
cion de la Espana : fue la primera que proveyo a su
propia conservacion, sin romper los vinculos que la
ligaban con ella : fue la primera que sintio los
efectos de su ambiciosa ingratitud: fue la pri
mera hostilizada por sus hermanos; y va a ser la
primera que recobre su independencia y dignidad civil
en el nuevo mundo. Para justificar esta medida de
necesidad y de justicia, cree de su deber presentar al
Universo las razones que se la han dictado, para no
comprometer su decoro y sus principios, quando va a
ocupar el alto rango que la Providencia le restituye.

37
fortunately, prejudice triumphed; the genius of evil
and of disorder seized on the governments ; goaded
pride usurped the seat of cool prudence, ambition
triumphed over liberality, and substituting deceit
and perfidy, for generosity and good faith, they
turned against us those very arms which we ourselves
used at the time, when impelled by our fidelity and
plain dealing, we taught Spain herself the way of re
sisting her enemies, under the banners of a presumtive
king, unfit to reign, and without other titles than the
generous compassion of the people, and his own mis
fortunes. Venezuela was the first to pledge to Spain, the
generous aid which she considered as a necessary
homage: Venezuela was the first in her affliction, to
pour the consoling balm of friendship and fraternity
into her wounds : Venezuela was the first to know
the disorders that threatened the destruction of Spain :
she was the first to provide for her own safety, with
out breaking the bonds that held her to the mother
couutry : the first to perceive the effects of her am
bitious ingratitude : she was the first on whom war
was made by her brethren : and she is the first to re
cover her independence and civil dignity in the new
world. In order to justify this measure of necessity
and justice, she considers it a duty incumbent on her,
to present to the universe, the reasons which have
urged her to the same, that her honour and princi
ples may not be doubted or endangered, when she
comes to fill the high rank which providence restores
to her,

38
Quanios sepan nuestra resolucion, saben tambieu
qua! ha sido nuestra suerte antes del trastorno que di-
solvio nuestros pactos, con la Espana, aun quando
ellos hubiesen sido legitimos y equitativos. Super :
fluo es presentar a la Europa imparcial, las desgra
cias y vexaciones que ella misma ha lamentado quan
do nO nos era permitido a nosotros haeerlo : ni hay
tampoco para que incukarle la injusticia de nuestra
dependencia y degradacion quando todas las naciones
han mirado como un insulto a la equidad politica, el
que la Espana despoblada, corrompida y sumergida
en la inaccion y la pereza por un gobierno despotico,
tubiese usurpados exclusivamente a la industria y ac-
tividad del Continente, los preciosos e incalculables
recnrsos de un mundo constituido en el feudoy mono
polio de una pequefia porcion del otro.
Los intereses de la Europa no pueden estar en con-
traposicion con la libertad de la* quarta parte del
mundo que se descubre ahora a la felicidad de las
otras tres ; solo una Peninsula Meridional puede opo-
ner los intereses de su Gobierno a los de su nacion,
paro amptinar el antiguo hemisferio contra el nuevo,
ya que se ve en la impotencia de oprimirlo por mas
tiempo. Contra estos conatos, mas funestos a nues
tro decor o que a nuestra prosperidad, es, que vamos a
oponer las razones que desde el 15 de Julio de 1808
han arrancado de nosotros las resoluciones del 19 de
Abril de 1810, y 5 de Julio de 1811, cuyas tres epo
ca s formaran el primer periodo de los fastos de Vene-

39
All those who are aware of our resolution, likewise
know, what has been our fate previous to the late in
version of things, which alone dissolved our engage
ments with Spain, even granted that these were legal
and equitable It were superfluous to present a fresh
to impartial Europe, the misfortunes and vexations
she herself has so often lamented, at a time that we
ourselves were not allowed to do so ; neither is it
necessary to aver the injustice of our dependance and
degradation, when every nation has viewed as an in
sult to political equity, that Spain, unpeopled, cor
rupted, and sunk in a state of inaction and sloth by
a despotic government, should have exclusively usurp
ed from the industry and activity of the rest of the
continent, the precious and incalculable resources of
a world, constituted in the fief and monopoly of a
small portion of the other.
The interest of Europe cannot clash with the liberty
of a quarter of the globe, that now shews itself to the
felicity of the other three; none but a South Penisula
can oppose the interests of its government, to those
of its nation, in order to raise the old hemisphere
against the new one, now that the impossibility of op
pressing it any longer, is discovered. In opposition
to these endeavours, more fatal to our reputation than
to our prosperity, it is, that we are about to display
the reasons, which from the 15th July 1808, have
wrested from us the resolutions of the 19th of April,
1810, and of the 5th July 1811; which three epochs
will form the first period of the glories of regenerated

40
zuela regenerada, quando el buril imparcisl de la
histoFia traze las primeras lineas de la existencia po
litica de la America del Sur.
Esparcidas en nuestros manifiestos y nuestros pa-
peles publicos casi todas las razones de nuestra reso
lution, todos nuestros designios, y todos los justos y
decorosos medios que hemos empleado para realizar-
los, parecia que debia bastair la coroparacion ex acta
e imparcial de nuestra conducta con la de los gobier
nos de Espana en estos iiltimos tiempos ; para justi-
ficar, no solo nuestra moderacion, no solo nues
tras medidas de seguridad, no solo nuestra inde
pendencia, sino hasta la declaracion de una ene
mistad irreconciliable con los. que directa, 6 indi-
rectamente, hubiesen contribuido al desnaturalizado
sistema adoptado contra nosotros. Nada tendria-
mos, a la verdad, que haeer, si la buena fe fuese
el movil del partido de la opresion contra la li-
bertad ; pero por ultima analisis de nuestras des-
gracias, no podemo3 salir de la condicion de siervos,
sin pasar por la calumniosa nota de ingratos, re-
beldes y desagradecidos. Oigan, pues, y juzguen
los que no hayan tenido parte en nuestras desgra-
cias, ni quieran tenerla ahora en nuestras dispu-
tas, para aumentar la parcialidad de nuestros enemi
gos ; y no pierdan de vista el acta solemne de nuestra
justa, necesaria y modesta emancipacion.
Caracas supo las. escandalosas escenas del Escorial
y Aranjuez, quando ya presentia quales eran sus de
rechos, y el estado en que los ponian aquellos grandes

41
Venezuela, when the impartial pen of history shall re
cord the first lines of the political existence of South
America. Testified as were in our minifests and public pa
pers, almost all the reasons that influenced our
resolution as well as our designs; and all the just
and decorous means which we have employed to re
alize them ; it might be supposed, that the exact and
impartial comparison of our conduct with that of the
governments of Spain, in these latter times, would of
itself suffice to justify not only our moderation, not
only our measures of security, not only our indepen
dence, but even also the declaration of an irreconcil
able enmity against those who directly, or indirectly,
have contributed to the unnatural system now adopt
ed against us. Nothing in truth should we have to
do, if good faith had been the spring of action, used
by the party of oppression against liberty ; but as the
last analysis of our misfortunes, we cannot extricate
ourselves from the condition of slaves, without being
branded with the calumny of being ingrates, rebels,
and unthankful. Let those therefore listen and judge
us, who have no part in our misfortunes, and who
are now desirous of having none in our disputes, in
order not to augment the prejudices of our enemies ;
and let them not lose sight of the solemn act of our
just, necessary, and modest emancipation.
Caracas learnt the scandalous scenes that passed in
El Escurial and Aranjuez, at a time that she already
perceived what were her rights, and the state in which

42
sucesos; pero el habito de obedecer por una parte, la
apatia que infunde el despotismo por otra, y la fide
lidad y buena fe por ultimo, fueron superiores a toda
combinaeion por el momento ; y ni aun despues que
presentados en esta Capital los despachos del Lugar-
teniente Murat, vacilaron las autoridsdes sobre su
aceptacioh,ni fue capaz el Pueblo de Caracas de pensar
en otra cosa que en ser fiel, conseqiiente y generoso,
sin preveer los males a, que iba a, exponerlo esta noble
y bizarra conducta. Sin otro calculo que el honor,
rehuso Venezuela seguir la voz de los mismos Pro-
ceres de Espana, quando los unos apoyando las 6r-
denes del Lugar -teniente del Reyno, exigian de noso
tros el reconocimiento del nuevo Rey; y los otros,
oleclarando y publicando, que la Espana habia empe-
zado a, existir de nuevo desde el abandonp de sus au.
toridades, desde las cesiones de los Bprbones e intro-
dUccion de otra dinastia, recobraban su absoluta in
dependencia y libertad, y daban este exemplo a. las
Americas para que elias recuperasen los mismos de
rechos que alii se proclamaban;* mas luego que
el primer paso que dimos a. nuestra seguridad, advir-
tio a, la Junta Central que habia en nosotros algo mas
que habitos y preocupaciones, se empezo a variar el
lenguage de la liberalidad y la franqueza : adopto la
* Varios impresos que salieron en el primer impetu de la revo_
'ucion de Espana. El Conde de Floridablanca contextando por
la Junta Central al Consejo de Castilla. Manifiesto de la misna
Junta. Y la universidad de Sevilla respondiendo la coasulta de
esta.

43
these were placed by those great occurrences ; but tlie
habit of obedience on the one hand, the apathy produc
ed by despotism on the other; and in short, fidelity and
good faith, were at the moment superior to every com
bination ; and after the dispatches of the kingly sub
stitute Murat,* had reached the capital, the authori
ties did not even waver respecting their reception, it
was not possible for the people to think of any thing
else, than of being faithful, consistent, and generous,
without foreseeing the ills to which this noble and
gallant conduct would expose them. Without any
other view than that of honour, Venezuela refused
to follow the opinion of the leading men of Spain,
some of whom in support of the orders of the French
Regent of the kingdom, exacted from us allegiance to
the new king : others declaring and publishing, that
Spain had received a new existance since the abandon
ment of her authorities, since the cessions of the
Bourbons, and the introduction of the new dynasty;
that they had recovered their absolute independence
and liberty, and that they offered this example to the
Americans, that they might recover the same rights
there proclaimed :f but as soon as the first step we
* Alluding to various printed pieces that appeared on the first
blaze of the revolution of Spain : such as Count Floridablancar,
in answer to the Council of Castile, on the part of the Central
Junta, manifest of said Junta, and the university of Seville in an
swer to the consultations of the latter.
+ It will be recollected that on the abdication of kings Charles
and Ferdinand, Murat was sent on to govern Spain as substitute
to Joseph Napoleon.

44
perfidia el talisman de Fernando, inventado por la
buena fe : se sofoco, aunque con mafia y suavidad, el
proyectp sencillo y legal de Caracas, para imitar la
conducta representiva de los gobiernos de Espana :*
y se erapezo a, entablar un nuevo genero de despotis-
mo, baxo el nombre facticio de un Rey reconocido
por generosidad, y destinado a nuestro mal y desastre,
por los que usurpaban la Soberania.

Nuevos Gobernadores y Jueces imbuidos del nuevo
sistema proyectado contra la America, decididos a.
sostenerlo a, costa nuestra, y prevenidos de instruc-
ciones para el ultimo resultado de la politica del otro
hemisferio, fueron las consequencias de la sorpresa
que causo a, la Junta Central nuestra inaudita e ines-
perada generosidad. La abigiiedad, la asechanza y la
concusion, fueron todos los resortes de sn caduca y
perecederaadministracion: como veian tan expuesto su
Imperio, parecia que querian ganar en un dia, lo que
habia enriquecido a sus antecesores en muchos anos:
y como su autoridad estaba respaldada por la de sus
comitentes, de nada trataban mas que de sosenerse
unos a. otros:, a, la sombra de nuestra ilusion y
buena fe. Ninguna ley contraria a estos planes er*
* Proyecto del anode 1808, para hacer uua Junta de Gobierno
j couicrvacion como las de Espana.

45
had taken for our security) had convinced the Central
Junta that there was in us, something more than habits
and prejudices, they began to vary the language of
libera! „y a. d Sincerity ; they perfidiously adopted the
talisr : ¦» cf Ferdinand, at first invented by good faith;
the^ suupressed, but with cunning and sweetness, the
plar; :,rA legal project of Caracas to imitate the re-
pr- r-a.ive conduct of the governments of Spain, *
and -•; :^y began to set on foot a new species of despo
tism., under the factitious name of a king, acknow
ledged only from a principle of generosity, and destin
ed to effect our ill and disaster, by those who had
usurped the sovereign power,
Fresh governors and judges, initiated in the new
system projected against America, decided to sustain
it at our expence, and provided with instructions for
even the last political change that might occur in the
other hemisphere, were the consequences resulting
from the surprise,which our unheard of and unexpected
generosity caused to the Central Junta. Ambiguity,
artifice, and disorder, were all the springs set in mo
tion by this tottering and short lived administration :
as they saw their empire exposed, it was evident they
wished to gain in ope day, what had enriched their
ancestors in many years ; and as their authority was
backed by that of their parasites, all their endeavours
* The project agitated in 1808 to form a Junta, intended for the
administration of governments and public safety, like those of
Spain.

46
ya valida y substitente ; y todo arbitrio que favore-
ciese el nuevo orden de francmazoneria politica, habia
de tener fuerza de ley, por mas opuesto que fuese a los
princrpios de justicia y equidad. Despues de declarar
el Capitain General Emparan a. la Audiencia, que no
habia en Caracas otra ley ni otra voluntad que la suya,
bien manifiesta en varios excesos y violencias, tales co
mo colocar en la plaza de Oydor al Fiscal de lo civil y
criminal : sorprehender y abrir los pliegos que dirigia
D. Pedro Gonzales Ortega a, la Junta Central : arrojar
a este empleado, al Capitan D.Francisco Rodriguez, y
al Asesor del Consulado D. Miguel Joze* Sanz, fuera
de estas Provincias, confinados a Cadiz y Puerto Rico :
encadenar y condenar al trabajo de obras publicas,
sin forma ni figura de juicio, una muchedumbre de
hombres buenos arrancados de sus hogares con el pre-
texto de vagos : revocar y suspender las determina -
ciones de la Andiencia, quando no eran conformes a.
su capricho y arbitrariedad : despues de haber hecho
nombrar un Sindico contra la voluntad del Ayunta-
miento : despues de haber hecho recibir a su Asesor
sin titulos ni autoridad : despues de sostener a. todo
trance su ignorancia y su orgullo : despues de mil
disputas escandalosas con la Audiencia y el Ayunta-
raiento : despues de reconciliarse, al fin con estos
despotas todos los togados para hacerse mas impunes

47
were directed to uphold each other, under the shadow
of our illusion and good faith. No statute contrary
to these plans was valid and effective, and every mea
sure that favoured the new order of political free
masonry, was to have the force of law, however
opposed to the principles of justice and equity. Afret
the declaration of the Captain General Emparan,
made to the Audiencia, that in Caracas there was no
other law nor will but his own ; and this fully mani
fested in several arbitrary acts and excesses, such as
placing on the seat of the oidor, the fiscal in civil and
criminal cases ; intercepting and opening the dispatches
sent to the Central Junta, by Don Pedro Gonsales
Ortega; sending out of those provinces this same
functionary, as well as Captain Don Francisco
Rodriguez, and the assessor of the board of trade,
Don Miguel Joze Sanz, all embarked for Cadiz and
Puerto Rico ; as well as condemning to the labour of
the public works, without either form or appearance
of trial, a considerable multitude of good men,
snatched from their homes under the pretence of va
grants; revoking and suspending the resolutions of
the Audiencia, when not conformable to his caprice
and absolute will : after naming a recorder without
the consent of the municipal body, creating and caus
ing the assessor to be received without title or autho
rity, after supporting his ignorance and pride to the
utmost lengths : after many scandalous disputes be
tween the A udiencia andthe municipal body, and after
ajl the law characters being reconciled to these

48
in expugnables contra nosotros, se convinieron en
organizar y llevar a cabo el proyecto, a, la sombra
de la falacia, del espionage, y la ambigiiedad.*
Baxo estos aUspicios, se ocultaban las derrotas
y desgiacias de las armas en Espana: se forjaban y
divulgaban triunfos pomposos e imaginaiios contra
los Franceses en la Peninsula, y en el Danubio: se
hacian iluminar las calles: quemar la polvora: tocar
las campanas : y prostituir la Religion, cantando Te
Deum y acciones de gracias, como para insultar la
Providencia en laperpetuidad denuestros males. Para
no dexarnos tiempo de analizar nuestra suerte, ni de
descubrir los lazos que se nos tendian, se figuraban
conspiraciones, se inventaban partidos y facciones, se
calumniaba a, todo el que no se prestaba a iniciarse en
los mistcrios de la perfidia, se inventaban esquadras y
emisarios Franceses en nuestros mares y nuestro seno,
se limitaban y constrefiian nuestras relaciones con las
Colonias vecinas, se ponian travas a, nuestro comercio ;
todo con el fin de tenernos en una continua agitacion,
para que no fixasemos la atencion en nuestros verda-
deros intereses.

* De todo esto hay testimonios autenticos en nuestros archives ;
y apesar de la vigilancia con que se saquearon estos por los par-
ciales de los antiguos mandones, existe en Cumana una orden del
gobierno Espanol, para promover la discordia entre los nobles y
parientes de lasfamilias Amcricanas: los hay escritos, y notorios
de la corrupcion, juego y libertinage que promovia Guevara para
desmoralizar al pais : y nadie olvidara las colusiones y sobornos
que publicaban los Oydores ; y constan de su regidencia.

49
despots, in order that they might be more secure and
inexpugnable against us, it was agreed to organize
and carry into effect, under the shadow of fallacy,
the projects of espionage and ambiguity.*
Under these auspices the defeats and misfortunes of
the Spanish armies were concealed ; pompous and
imaginary triumphs over the French, in the Peninsu
la and on the Danube, were forged and announced ;
-they caused the streets to be illuminated ; gunpowder
was wasted; the bells chimed; and religion was
prostituted by Te Deums, and acts of thanks being
sung, as if to insult Providence in the perpetuity of
our evils. In order to leave us no time to analyze
our own fate, or discover the snares laid for us, con
spiracies were invented, parties and factions were im
agined, every one was calumniated who did not con
sent to be initiated in the mysteries of perfidy ; fleets
andemissariesfrom the French were figured, as being
in our seas and amongst us ; our relations with the
neighbouring colonies were circumscribed and re
stricted ; our trade was newly fettered ; and the
whole, to the end of keeping us in a state of continual
* Of all this there remains authentic testimony in our archives;
notwithstanding the vigilance with which these were examined
by the friends of the late authorities, there exists in Cumana an
order of the Spanish government to excite discord amongst the
nobles and relations of the American families. There are besides,
many written and well known documents of corruption, gambling,
andlibertinism; promoted by Guevara, to demor'alize the country;
and no one can ever forget the collusions and subornings publickly
used by the oidores, and proved in the place of their residence.
E

50
Alarmado ya nuestro sufrimiento, y despierta nues
tra vigilancia, empezamas a. desconfiar de los Gobier
nos de Espana y sus agentes: al traves de sus intrigas
y maquinaciones, descubriamos todo el horroroso por
venir que nos amenazaba : el genio de la verdad ele-
vado sobre la densa atmosfera de la opresion y la
calumnia, nos senalaba con el dedo de la imparciali-
dad la verdadera suerte de la Peninsula, el desorden
de su gobierno, la energia de sus habitantes, el formid
able poder de sus enemigos, y la ninguna esperanza
de su salvacion. Encerrados en nuestras casas, rodea-
dos de espias, amenazados de infamia y deportacion,
apenas podiamos lamentar nuestra situacion, ni haeer
otra cosa que murmurar en secreto contra nuestros
vigilantes y astutos enemigos. La consonancia de
fiuestros suspiros, exhalados en la amargura y la
opresion, uniformo nuestros sentimientos, y reunio
nuestras opiniones : encerrados en las quatro paredes
de su casa, e incomunicados entre si, apenas huvo un
ciudadano de Caracas que no pensase que habia
llegado el momento de ser libre para siempre, 6 de
sancionar irrevocablemente una nueva y horrorosa
servidumbre.

Todos empezaron a, descubrir la ntilidad delos actos
de Bayona, la invalidacion de los derechos de Fernando,
y de todos los Borbones que concurrieron a aquellas
ilegitimas estipulaciones : la ignominia con que habian

51
agitation, that we might not fix our attention on Our
real interests,
Our forbearance once alarmed., and our vigilance
awakened, we began to lose confidence in the govern
ments of Spain and their agents ; through the veil of
their intrigues and machinations, we discovered the
horrid futurity that ihreatened us: the genius of truth,
raised above the dense atmosphere of oppression and
calumny, pointed out to us with the finger of impar
tiality, the true fate of Spain, the disorders of her
government, the energy of her inhabitants, the formi
dable power of her enemies, and the groundless hopes
of her salvation. Shut up in our own houses, surround
ed by spies, threatened by infamy and banishment,
scarcely were we able to bewail our own situation, or
to do more than secretly to complain against our vi
gilant and cunning enemies. The consonance of our
blended sighs, exhaled in the moments of bitterness
and oppression, at length gave uniformity to our sen
timents, and united our opinions. Shut up within the
walls of our own houses, and debarred from all com
munication with our fellow-citizens, scarcely was
there one individual of Caracas, who did not think,
that the moment of being for ever free had arrived, or
else that, of irrevocably sanctioning a new and horrid
slavery. Every one began to discover the nullity of the acts
of Bayonne, the invalidity of the rights of Ferdinand,
and of all the Bourbons who were parties to the said
stipulations ; the ignominy with which they had de-

52
^ntregado como esclavos a los que lbs habian colocado
en el trono contra las pretensiones de la Casa de
Austria: la connivencia de los intrusos mandatarios
de Espana, a los planes de la nueva dinastia: la suerte
que estos planes preparaban a la America: y la
necesidad de tomar un partido que pusiese a cubierto
al Nuevo Mundo de los males que le acarreaba el
estado de susrelaciones con el antigUo. Veian sumirse
sus tesoros en la sima insondable del desorden de la
Peninsula: lloraban la sangre de los Americanos,
mezclada en la lid con la de los enemigos de la Ame
rica, para sostener la esclavitud de su Patria : pene-
traban, apesar de la vigilancia de los tiranos, hasta la
misma Espaiia^ y nada veian mas que desorden, cor-
rupcion, facciones, derrotas, infortunios, traiciones,
exercitos dispersos, provincias ocupadas, falanges
enemigas, y un gobierno imbecil y tumultuario, for-
mado de tan raros elementos.

Tal era la impresion uniforme y general que ad-
vertian en 'el rostro de todos los Venezolanos los
agentes de la opresion, destacados a. sostener a toda
costa la infame causa de sus constituyentes : cada
palabra producia una proscripcion: cada discurso
costaba una deportacion a. su autor : y cada esfuerzo
6 tentativa para hacer en America lo mismo que en
Espana, sino hacia derramar la sangre de los Ameri
canos, era, sin duda, una causa suficiente ptira la

53
livered up as slaves, those, who had placed them on the
throne, in opposition to the pretensions of the house of
Austria ; the connivance of the intrusive mandataries
of Spain, to the plans of the new dinasty ; the fate that
these same plans prepared for America, and the ne
cessity of taking some resolve, that might shield the
aiew world from the calamities that were about to re
sult from its relations with the old one. All saw their
treasures buried in the unfathomable abyss of the dis
orders of the Peninsula, they wept for the blood of
Americans spilt in the same struggle with that of the
enemies of America; in order to sustain the slavery of
their own country ; notwithstanding the vigilance of
their tyrants, they saw into the interior of Spain herself,
where they beheld nothing1 but disorder, corruption,
factions, defeats, misfortunes, treacheries, dispersed
armies, whole provinces in the power of the enemy,
the ready phalanxes of the latter, and at the head of
all, a weak and tumultuary government, formed out of
such rare elements.
Such was the general and uniform impression no
ticed on the faces of all the people of Venezuela by
the agenjts of oppression, sent out to support, at every
hazard, the infamous cause of their constituents; eve
ry word produced a proscription, every discourse cost
banishment to its author, and every effort or attempt
to do the same in America, as had been done in Spain,
if it did not cause the blood of Americans to flow, it
it was at least sufficient for the ruin, infamy, and

54
^uina, infamia, y desolacion de muchas familias. *
Tan errado calculo no pudo menos que multiplicar,
los choques, aumentar con ellos la reaccion popular,
preparar el combustible, y disponerlo con la menor
;hispa a un incendio que consumiese y borrase hasta
los vestigios de tan dura y penosa condicion. La
Espana menesterosa y desolada, pendiente su suerte
Ie la generosidad Americana, y casi en el momento
de ser borrada del catalago de las naciones, parecja
que, trasladada al siglo 16 y 17, empezaba a con
quistar de nuevo a la America con armas mas terribles
que el hierro y el plomo : cada dia se senalaba por
una nueva prueba de la suerte que nos amenazaba ;
colocados en la liorrorosa disyuntiva de ser vendidos a
una nacion extrana, 6 tener que gemir para siempre
en una nueva e irrevocable servidumbre, solo aguar-
dabamos el momento feliz que diese impulso a nuestra
opinion, y reuniese nuestras fuerzas para expresarla,
y sostenerlai Entre los ayes y las imprecaciones de la exaspera
tion general, resono en nuestros oidos, la irrupcion
de los Franceses en las Andalucias, la disolucion de
la Junta Central, a. impulsos de la execracion pub-
liea, y la abortiva institucion de otro nuevo Proteo-
Gubernativo, baxo el nombre de Regencia, Aduh -
ciabase esta con ideas mas liberales; y presintiendo
* Deportacion de varios Oficiales de concepto, y ciudadanos de
rango y probidad, decretada en 20 de Marzo de 1810, por Em-»
paran. , ""¦

55
desolation of many families.* Such a wrong calcu
lation could not fail to multiply the convulsions to
augment, by means of them, the popular re-action, to
prepare the combustible, and dispose it in such a
manner, that with the least spark it would create a
blaze, that would consume, and even efface every
vestige of so hard and melancholy a condition.
Spain, needy and desolate, her fate dependent on the
generosity of America, and almost in the act of being
blotted out from the list of nations, appeared as if
transported back to the 16th and 17th ages, she again
began to conquer America, with arms more terrible
than iron and lead ; every day gave rise to a new
proof, of the fate that awaited us; such a one as
would place us in the sad alternative of being sold to
a foreign power, or obliged for ever to groan under a
fresh and irrevocable servitude; whilst we alone,
were expectant on the happy moment, that might
give impulse to our opinion, and unite our strength
to express, and to sustain it.
Amidst the sighs and imprecations of general ex
asperation, the irruption of the French into Anda
lusia, the dissolution of the Central Junta, brought
about by the effects of public execration, and
the abortive institution of another Protean govern
ment, under the name of Regency, reached our ears.
This was announced under ideas more liberal, and on
* Vide Act of proscription of several officers of distinction,
and citizens of rank and probity, decreed on the 20th March;
IS 10, by Emparan.

56
ya los esfuerzos de los Americanos para hacer valer
los vicios y nulidades de tan raro Gobierno, procura-
ron reforzar la ilusion con promesas brillantes, teorias
esteriles de reformas, y anuncios de que ya no estaba
nuestra suerte en las manos de los Virreyes, de los
Ministros, ni de los Gobernadores ; al mismo tiempo
que todos estos agentes recibian las mas estrechas
ordenes para velar sobre nuestra conducta, sobre
nuestras opiniones, y no permitir que estas saliesen de
la esfera trazada por la eloqtiencia que doraba los
hierros preparados en la capciosa y amanada carta de
emancipacion .

En qualquiera otra epoca hubiera est a deslumbrado
a los Americanos; pero ya habia trabajado demasiado
la Junta de Sevilla y la Central, a favor de nuestro
desengano, y Io que se comhino, mediio, y pulio para
conquistarnos de nuevo con frases e hiperboles, sirvio
solo para redoblar nuestra vigilancia, reunir nuestras,
opiniones y formar una firme e incontrastable resolu-
cion de perecer antes que ser por mas tiempo victimas-
de la cabala y la perfidia. El dia en que la Religion
celebra los mas augustos misteriOs de la redencion, del
genero humano, era el que tenia senalado la Provi-
dencia para dar principio £ la redencion politica de la,
America. El Jueves Santo, 19 de Abril, se desplo-
m6 en Venezuela el coloso del despotismo, se proclamo
fel imperi'6 de las leyes, y se expulsaron los tiranos con

57
perceiving the efforts of the Americans to avail them
selves of the vices and nullities of so rare a govern-*
ment, they endeavoured to strengthen the illusion by
brilliant promises; by theories barren of reform, and
hy announcing to us, that our fate was no longer in
the hands of viceroys, ministers, or governors; at
the same time, that all these agents received the most
strict orders to watch over our conduct, over our
opinions, and not to suffer these to exceed the limits,
traced by the eloquence that gilded over the chains,
prepared in the captious and cunning letter of eman
cipation. At any other period whatever, this would have suf
ficed to deceive the Americans ; but the Junta of
Seville, as well as the Central one, had already done
too -much in order to take the bandage from our
eyes ; and what was then combined, meditated, and
polished, to subject us again, with phrases and hyper
boles, only served to redouble our vigilance, to col
lect our opinions, and to form a firm and unshaken re
solution to perish, rather than to remain any longer
the victims of cabal aud perfidy. The day, on which
religion celebrates the most august mystery of the re
demption of the human race, was that designated by
Providence to be the commencement of the political
redemption of America. Qn Good Friday, the 19th
of April, it was, that the Colossus of despotism was
cast down in Venezuela, the empire of the laWs pro
claimed, and the tyrants expelled, with all the feli
city, moderation, and tranquillity, that they themselves

58
teda la felicidad, moderation y tranquilidad que ellos
mismos han confesado, y ha llenado de admiracion y
afecto hacia nosotros a. todo el mundo imparcial.
Quien no hubiera creido que un Pueblo que logra
recrobar sus derechos, y librarse de sus opresores, no
hubiera en su furor salvado quantas barreras podian
ponerlo directa, 6 indirectamente, al alcance de la in
fluencia de los Gobiernos que habian hasta entonces
sostenido su desgracia y opresion? Venezuela fiel a sus
promesas, no hace mas que asegurar su suerte para
cumplirlas ; y si con una mano firme y generosa de-
ponia a, los agentes de su miseria y su esclavitud, colo-
caba con la otra el nombre de Fernando VII a la
frente de su nuevo gobierno, juraba conservar sus
derechos, prometia reconocer la unidad e integridad
politica de la Nacion Espanola, abrazaba a, sus her
manos de Europa, les ofrecia un asilo en sus infor-
tunios y calamidades, • detestaba a los enemigos del
nombre Espanol, procuraba la alianza generosa de la
Nacion Inglesa, y se prestaba a tomar parte en la
felicidad y en la desgracia de la nacion de quien pudo
y debio separarse para s.iempre.
Mas no era esto lo que exigia de nosotros la Re-
gencia. Quando nos declaraba Iibres en la teoria de
sus planes, nos sujetaba en la practica a una represen-
tacion diminuta e insignificante, creyendo que a, quien
nada se le debia, estaba en el casp de contentarse con
lo^que le diesen sus senores, Baxo tan liberal ck\-

59
have confessed ; so much so, as even to have filled
with admiration and friendship for us, the rest of the
impartial world.
Who but would have thought that a nation, reco
vering its rights, and freeing itself from its oppressors,
in its blind fury, would have broken down every bar
rier that might place it directly, or indirectly within
the reach of the influence of those very government*,
that had hitherto sustained its misfortunes and op
pression. Venezuela, faithful to her promises, does
no more than insure her own security in order to com
ply with them ; and if with one strong and generous
hand, she deposed the agents of her misery
and her slavery, with the other, she placed the
name of Ferdinand the 7th at the head of her new
government, swore to maintain his rights, promised
to acknowledge the unity and integrity of the Spa
nish nation, opened her arms to her European bre
thren, offered them an asylum in their misfortunes
and calamities, equally hated the enemies of the Spa
nish name, sought the generous alliance of Englandi
and prepared to take part in the felicity or misfortune
of the nation from whom she could, and ought to have
eternally separated.
But it was not this, that the Regency exacted from
us. When the latter declared us free in the theory
of their plans, they subjected us in practice to.
a small and insignificant representation, believing
that those to whom nothing was due, would be con
sent to receive whatever was granted to them by their

60
cnlo,. queria la Regencia mantener nuestra ilusion, y
pagarnos en discursos, promesas e inscripciohes,
nuestra larga servidumbre, y la sangre y los tesoros
que derramabamos en Espana. Bien conociamos
nosotros lo poco que debiamos esperar de la politica
de los intrusos apoderados de Fernando : no ignora-
bamos, que si no debiamos depender de los Virreyes,
Ministros y Gobernadores, con mayor razon no po
diamos estar sujetos a un Rey cautivo y sin dere
chos ni autoridad,ni a, un gobierno nulo e ilegitimo, ni
a una nacion incapaz de tener derecho sobre otra, ni
a, un angulo peninsular de la Europa, ocupado casi
todo por una fuerza extrana; pero queriendo con
quistar nuestra libertad a. fuerza de generosidad, de
moderacion, y de civismo, reconocimos los imaginarios
derechos del hijo de Maria Luisa, respetamos la des
gracia de la Nacion, y dando parte de nuestra resolu
tion a. la misma Regencia que desconociamos, le
©freeimos no separarnos de la Espaiia siempre que
hubiese en ella un gobierno legal, establecido por la
voluntad de la Nacion, y en el que tuviese la America
la parte que le da la justicia, la necesidad, y la im-
portancia politica de su territorio,
r Si los trescientos alios de nuestra anterior servidum-i
bre, no hubieran bastado para autorizar nuestra eman-
cipacion, habria sobrada causa en la condueta de los
gobiernos que se arrogaron la Soberania de una
nacion coaqaistada, que jamas pudo tener la menor
propried.ad en la America, declarada parte integrant*

61
masters. Under a calculation so liberal, the Regen
cy was desirous of keeping up our. illusion, to pay us
with words, promises, and inscriptions for our long
slavery, and for the blood and treasure we had ex
pended in Spain. Fully were we aware, how little
we had to expect from the policy and. the intrusive
agents of Ferdinand ; we were not ignorant that if
we were not to be dependent on viceroys, ministers,
and governors, with greater reason we could not be
subject either to a king, a captive and without the
rights of authority, nor to a government, null and il
legitimate, nor to a nation incapable of holding sway
over another, nor to a peninsular corner of Europe*
nearly wholly occupied by a foreign force. Never
theless, desirous Of effecting our own freedom, by the
means of generosity, moderation, and civism, we ac
knowledged the imaginary rights of the son of Maria
Louisa, we respected the misfortunes of the nation,
and giving official notice to the same Regency we dis
owned, we offered not to separate from Spain, as long
as she maintained a legal government, established by
the will of the nation, and in which America had that
part, given to her by justice, necessity, and tie politi
cal importance of her territory.
If the three hundred years of our former servitude,
have not sufficed to authorize our emancipation, there
would be sufficient cause in the conduct of the govern
ments, which arrogated to themselves the sovereignty
of a conquered nation, which never could have any
property in America, declared an integral part of the

62
de ella ; quando se quiso enyolverla en la conquista.
Si los Gobernantes de Espana hubiesen estado paga-
dos por sus enemigos, no babrian podido hacer mas
contra la felicidad de la nacion vinculada en su extre-
cha union y buena correspodencia con la America.
Con el mayor desprecio a nuestra importancia, y a
la justicia de nuestros reclamos, quando no pudieron
negarnos una apariencia de representation, la sugeta-
ron a. la influencia despotica de sus Agentes sobre los
Ayuntamientos, a quienes se cometio la eleccion; y
al paso que en Espana se concedia hasta a, las Provin
cias ocupadas por los Franceses, y a. las Islas Canarias
yBaleares un Representante a. cada 50 mil almas,elegi-
do libremente por el Pueblo, apenas bastaba en Ame
rica un millon para tener derecho a, un representante,
nombrado por el Virrey 6 Capitan General baxo la
firma del Ayuntamiento.
Mientras que nosqtros fuertes con el testimonio de
nuestra justicia, y con la moderacion de nuestro pro-
ceder, esperabamos que si no triunfaban las razones
quealegamos a, la Regencia para demostrarle la necesi
dad de nuestra resolution ; se respetarian, al menos,
las generosas disposiciones con que nos prestabamos a
no ser enemigos de nuestros oprimidos y desgraciados
hermanos ; quiso el nuevo gobierno de Caracas no
limitar estas disposiciones a. esteriles raciocinios, y el
mundo despreocupado e imparcial, conpcera. que
Venezuela ha consuraido fodo el tiempo que ha pasado,
desde el 19 de Abril de 1810, hasta el 5 de Julio de

63
same, whilst they attempted again to involve it its
conquest. If the governors of Spain had been paid by
her enemies, they could not have done more against
the felicity of the nation, bound in its close union and
good correspondence with America. With the great
est contempt of our importance, and of the justice of
our claims, when they could not deny us the appear
ance of a representation,they subjected it to the despo
tic influence of their agents over the municipalities to
whom the election was committed; and whilst ia
Spain, at the same time that they allowed even
for the provinces in possession of the French, as well
as the Canaries and Balearic islands, a representative
for each fifty thousand souls, freely elected by the
people; in America, scarcely a million sufficed to
have the right of one representative, named by the
Viceroy or Captain General, under the signature of
the municipality.
At the same time that we, strong in the testimony
of our own justice, and the moderation of our pro
ceedings, hoped, that if the reasons we alledged to
the Regency to convince them of the necesity of our
resolution did not triumph ; at least, that the generous
dispositions with which we offered not to become the
enemy of our oppressed and unfortunate brethren,
would be successful, dispositions which the new
government of Caracas was desirous should not be
limited to barren phrases ; and the imprejudiced and
impartial world will know, that Venezuela has pass
ed all that time/which intervened between the 19th of

64
1811, en una amarga y psnosa alternativa de ingrati
tudes, insultos y hostilidades, por parte de la Espana,
y de generosidad, moderacion.y sufrimiento, por la
nuestra. * Esta epoca es la mas interesante de la his
toria de nuestra revolucion, como que sus acaecimien-
tos ofrecen un contraste tan favorable a, nuestra causay
que no ha podido menos que ganarnos el imparcial
juicio deias naciones que no tienen un interes en desa-
creditar nuestros esfuerzos.
Antes de -las resultas de nuestra trans formation
politica, llegaban cada dia a nuestras manos nuevos
motivos para hacer, por cada uno de ellos, lo que hici-
mos despues de tres siglos de miseria y degradacion.
En todos los Buques que llegaban de Espana, venian
nuevos agentes a reforzar con nuevas instrucciones a
los que sostenian la causa de la ambition y la perfidia:
con el mismo objeto se negaba el permiso de regresar
a, Espaiia a. los militares'y demas empleados Europeos;
aunque lo pidiesen para hacer la guerra contra los
Franceses : se expedian ordenes* para que socolor de
no atender sino a, la guerra, se embruteciese mas la
Espaiia y la America, se cerrasen las escuelas, no se
hablase de derechos ni premios, ni se hiciese mas que
enviar a" Espana dinefo, hombres Americanos,
viveres, frUtos preciosos, sumision y obediencia.
Las gazetasno hablaban mas que de triunfos, vie,
torias, donativos, y reconocimientos arrancados por
*E130 dc Abrilde 1810,

65
April, 1810, to the 5th of July, 1811, in a bitte* and
painful alternative of acts of ingratitude, insults and
hostilities on the part of Spain, and of generosity,
moderation, and forbearance on ours. This period
is the most interesting of the history of our revolution,
so miich so, that its events present a contrast so
favourable to our cause, that it cannot have failed to
gain over for us, the impartial judgement of those
nations, that have no interest to disparage our
efforts. Previous to the result of our political transforma
tion, every day we received fresh motives sufficient
ly strong, for each to have caused us to do what we
have done, after three ages of misery and degradation;
In every vessel that arrived from Spain, new agents
came out to strengthen with fresh instructions, those
who sustained the cause of ambition and perfidy!*
For the very same purpose, refusal was sent out for
the officers,and other Europeans to return to Spain,not-
withstanding they asked it to fight against the French;
fresh orders were issued,* for the schools to be closed,
to the end, that under the pretence of attending on ly
to the war, both Spain and America might be sunk
deeper into a state of ignorance, it was ordained that
rights and premiums should not be heard of, and that
nothing was to be done, but sending to Spain, money,
American men, provisions, colonial productions, sub
mission, and obedience.
The public prints were filled with nothing but
triumphs, victories, donations and acknowledgements,
* On the 30th April, 1810,

m
el despotismo en los Pueblos que no sabian aun nues
tra resolution; y baxo las mas severas conminaciones
se restablecia la inquisicion politica con todos sus hor-
rores, contra los que leyesen, tubiesen 6 recibiesen
otros papeles, no solo estrangeros, sino aim Espanoles
quenofuesen de la fabrica de la Regencia.* Contra
las mismas ordenes expedidas de antemano para aluci-
nar la America, se salvaban todos los tramites en las
consultas para empleados ultramarinos, cuyo merita
consistia solo en haber jurado sostener el sistema tra-*
mado por los Regentes : con el ultimo escandalo y
descaro se declaro nula condeno al fuego, y se pros-
cribieron los autores y promovedores de una orden
que favorecia nuestro comercio y alentaba nuestra
agricultura ; al paso que se nos exigian auxilios de
todas clases, sin producir la menor cuenta de su des-;
tino e inversion : en desprecio de la fe publica se man-
daron abrir sin excepcion alguna todas las correspon-
cias de estos paises, atentado desconocido hasta en el
despotismo de Godoy, y adoptado solo para hacer
mas tiranico el espionage contra la America. En una
palabra, empezaban a, realizarse practicamente los
planes trazados para perpetuar nuestra servidumbre.

Entre tanto Venezuela, libre,y senora de si mismay
en nada pensaba menos que en imitar la detestable
oonducta de la Regencia y sus agentes : contenta con-
* Ibid.

67
wrested by despotism from the people who were riot
yet informed of our resolution; and under the most
severe threats of punishment, a political inquisition
with all its horrors, was established against those who
should read, possess, or receive other papers, not only
foreign, but even Spanish, that were not out of the
Regency's manufacture.* Contrary to the very
orders previously issued to deceive the country, every
bound was overleaped in the selection of ultramarine
functionaries, whose merit alone consisted in having
sworn to maintain the system contrived by the Re*
gency ; in the most scandalous and barefaced. manner
the order which favoured our trade, and encouraged
Our agriculture, was declared null, condemned to be
burnt, and its authors and promoters proscribed ; aid
of every kind Was exacted from us, without any ac*
count of its destination or expenditure being sent to
us; in contempt of every shadow of public faith, and
without any exception whatever, all correspondence
from these countries was ordered to be opened ; an
excess unknown even under the despotism of Godoy,
and only adopted to cause the espionage over America
tp be more tyranical. In short, the plans plotted to
perpetuate our servitude, now began practically to be
realized. In the mean time Venezuela, freehand mistress of
herself, of nothing thought less than to imitate the
detestable conduct of the Regency and its agents;
* Date as above.

68
haber asegurado su suerte contra la ambition de uni
Gobierno intruso e ilegiiimo, y ponerla a cubierto de
unos planes demasiado complicados y tenebrosos, no
hacia mas que acreditar con hechos positives sus de
seos de paz, amistad, correspondencia y cooperation
con sus hermanos de Europa Quantos se hallavau
entre nosotros fueron mirades como tales, y los dos
tercios de los empleos politicos, civiles y militares de
alta y mediana gerarquia quedaron 6 se pusieron en
manos de los Europeos, sin otra precaucion que una
franqueza y buena fe harto funesta a nuestros inte
reses : nuestras caxas se abrieron generosamente para
auxiliar con luxo, y transporter comoda y profusa-
mente a. nuestros tiranos : los Comandantes de los
Correos Carmen, Fortuna y Araucana, fueron acogi-
dos en nuestros puertos, y auxiliados con nuestros
caudales para seguir y concluir sus respectivas comi-
siones : y aun los desacatos y delitos del de la For
tuna se sometieron al juicio del Gobierno Espaiiol.
Aunque la Junta Gubernativa de Caracas presento
las razones de precaucion que la obligaban a no aven-
turar a la voratidad del Gobierno los fondos publicos
que pudieran servir al socorro de la nacion, exhorto
y dex6 expedita la generosidad de los pueblos para
que usasen de sus caudales conforme a, los impulses
de su sensibilidad, publicando en sus Gazetas el pla-
fiidero manifiesto con que la Regencia pintaba mori-
bunda a la nacion para pedir auxilio ; al paso que la
hacia parecer vigorosa, organizada y triunfante ea

69
content with having sucured her fate against the am
bition of an intrusive and illegitimate government, and
shielded it against plans too dark and complicated,
was satisfied in shewing by positive acts, her desire of
peace, friendship, correspondence, and co-operation
with her European brothers. All those who were
amongst u,s, were considered as such, and two-thirds
of the political, civil and military employments, both
of the high and middle classes, remained, or were
placed in the hands of Europeans, without any fur
ther precaution, but with a sincerity and good faith,
that nearly proved fatal to oor interests.
Our chests were generously opened, to aid with
every luxury, to the end, that our tyrants in their
passage from us, might enjoy every convenience and
profusion; the captains of the packets. Carmen, For
tuna, and Araucaha, were received into our ports,
and assisted with money, to enable them to proceed
on their voyage, and fulfil their respective commis
sions ; and even the disrespect and crimes of the com
mander of the Fortuna, were referred to the judgement
of the Spanish government. Notwithstanding the
governmental Junta of Caracas, manifested the reasons
of precaution, which obliged them not to expose to
the voracity of the government, the public funds,
which were destined tojsuccour the nation, they exhort
ed and left room for the generosity of the people, to
use their fortunes conformably to the impulse of their
own sensibility, by publishing in the newspapers, the
mournful manifeit, in which the Regency pourtray-

70
Jos Periodicos destinados a. alucinarnos : los Com-
isionados de la Regencia para Quito, Santa Fe y el
Peru, fueron hospedados amistosamente, tratados co
mo amigos, y socorridos a. su satisfaccion sus urgen-
cias pecuniarias. Pero gastamos mas bien el tiempo
en analizar la conducta tenebrosa y suspicaz de nues
tros enemigos, puesto que todos sus esfuerzos no han
sido bastantes para desnivelar la irnperiosa y triun-
fante impresion de la nuestra.

No eran solo los mandones de nuestro territorio los
que estaban autorizados para sostener la horrorosa
irama de sus constituyentes : era omnimoda y uni
versal la mision de todos los que inundaron la Ame
rica desde los funestos y ominosos reynados de las
Juntas de Sevilla, Central y Regencia, y con On
sistema de francmazoneria politica baxo un pacto
machiavelico, estaban todos de acuerdo en sub-
stituirse, reemplazarse y auxiliarse mutuamente en
los planes combinados contra la felicidad y existencia
politica del Nuevo Mundo. La Isla de Puerto Rico
se constituyo, desde luego, la guarida de todos los
agentes de la Regencia : el astillero de todas las ex-
pediciones : el quartel general de todas las fuerzas
anti-Americanas : el taller de todas las imposturas,
calumnias, triunfos y amenazas de los Regentes : el
refugio de todos los raalvados : y el surgidero de una
nueva compafiia de Filibustiers, para que no faltase
siinguna delas calamidades del sigjp 16 a la nueva.

71
ed the agonizing state of the nation, in order to im
plore aid ; at the same time, that they represented it
vigorous, organized and triumphant hi the public
prints, destined to deceive us. The commissioners
of £he Regency bound to Quito, Santa Fe, and Peru,
were hospitably received, treated as friends, and their
pecuniary wants supplied, to their own satisfaction:
— But we lose time, in thus analyzing the dark and
cunning conduct of our enemies, as all their endea
vours have not sufficed to warp the imperious and
triumphing impression of ours.
The arrogant mandataries of our country, we're not,
however, the only ones, authorized to support the
horrid plot of their constituents; the same uniform and
universal mission, was brought out by all those who
inundated America, from the sad and ominous reigns
of the Junta of Seville, the Central One, and the Re
gency ; and under the system of political freemasonry,
founded on the machiavelic pact, they all accorded
in mutually substituting, replacing, and assisting
each, other, in the plans combined against the felicity
and political existence of the new world. The island
of Puerto Rico, was immediately made the haunt of
all the agents of the Regency, the place of equipment
for all the expeditions, the head quarters of all the
anti- American forces, the workshop of all the impos
tures, ealumnies, triumphs, and threats of the Re
gents ; the refuge of all the wicked, the rendezvous
port of a new set of Filibusters, in order that there
might not be wanting any of the calamities of the

72
conquista de la America en el 19. Oprimidos los
Americanos de Puerto-Rico con las baydnetas, cafio-
nes, grilletes y horcas, que rodeaban al Baxa Me-
lendez y sus satelites, tenian que anadir a sus males y
desgracias la dolorosa necesidad de contribuir a Jos
nuestros, Tal es la suerte de los Americanos con-
denados, no solo a, ser presidiarios, sino comitres
unos de otros.
Aun es mucho mas dura e insultante la conducta
que observa la Espana con la America, comparada
con la que aparece respecto de la Francia. Es bien
notorio que la nueva dinastia que resiste aun alguna
parte de la nation, ha tenido partidarips muy decidi-
dos en muchos de los que se miraban como sus Pro-
ceres por su rango, empleos, luces, y conocimientos ;*
pero todavia no se ha visto uno de los que tanto ape-,
tecen la libertad, independencia, y regeneracion de la
Peninsula, que haya disculpado siquiera la conducta
de las Provincias Americanas, que adpptando los
mismos printipios de fidelidad, e integridad national,
hay an querido conservarse a. si mismas independientes
de unos gobiernos- intrusos, ilegitimos, imbeciles y
tumultuarios, como han sido todos los que se han
llamado hasta ahora apoderados del Rey, 6 Rep re -
Bentantes dela Nacion. Irrita ver tanta liberalidad,
tanto civismo, y tanto desprendimiento en las Cortes
* Morla, Azanza, Ofarill, Urquijo, Mazarredo, y otros muchos d*
todas clases y profesionei.

73
sixteenth century, to the new conquest of America,
in the nineteenth. The Americans of Puerto Rico,
oppressed by the bayonets, cannons, fetters and gib
bets which surrounded the bashaw Melendez, and his
satellites, had to add to their own evils and mis
fortunes, the painful necessity of contributing to ours.
Such is the fate of the Americans, condemned not
pnly to be galley slaves, but to be the drivers of each
other. The conduct observed by Spain to America, is
harder and more insulting, when compared with that
she appears to exercise with regard to France. It is
well known, that the new dynasty, still resisted by
part of the nation, has had decided partizans in many
of those, who considered themselves the first national
dignataries, for their rank, offices, talents, and know
ledge;* but still there has not appeared one of those
who so much desire the liberty, independence, and
regeneration of the Peninsula, who has raised his voice
in favour of the American provinces ; which adopt
ing the same principles of fidelity and national in
tegrity, haveof their own accord, been ambitious of
preserving themselves independent of such intrusive,
illegitimate, weak, and tumultuary governments, ag
have been all those, which have hitherto called them
selves the agents of the King, or representatives
of the nation. It is vexing to see so much libe
rality, so much civism, and so much disinterest in
* Morla, Azanza, Ofarill, TJrquijo, Mazarredo, and many
•then of every clasi and profession.

74
coti respecto a. la Espana desorganizada, exhausta, y
casi conquistada; y tanta mezquindad, tanta suspi-
eacia, tanta preocupacion y tanto orgullo con la
America, pacifiea, fiel, generosa, decidida a, auxiliar
a sns hermanos, y la Unica que puede no dejar
ilusorios, en lo esencial, los planes teoricos y bril-
lantes que tanto valor dan el Congreso Espaiiol.
^uantas trayciones, entregas ; asesinatos, perfidias,
y.concusiones se han visto en la revolution de Es
pana, han pasado como desgracias inseparables de
las circunstancias ; pero a ninguna de las Pro
vincias rendidas, 6 contentas con la domination
Francesa, se le ha. tratado como a Venezuela:
h&btk sido su conducta analizada y caracterizada
coiiforme a. las razones, motives, y circunstancias que
la dictaron: se habra juzgado esta conforme al dere-
eho de la guerra, y so habra publicado el juicio de la
Nation conforme a los, dato3 que se hayan tenido pre
serves ; pero ninguna de elias ha sido hasta ahora
d'eclarada traydora, rebelde, y desnaturalizada como
Venezuela, y para ninguna de elias se ha creado una
eomision piiblica.de amotinadores diplomaticos, para
armar Espanoles contra Espanoles, eneender la guer
ra civil, e incendiar todo lo que no se puede poseer
k dilapidar a, nombre de Fernando VII. La Ame
rica sola es la que esta. condenada a sufrir, la inau-
tii-ta condition de ser hostilizada, destruida, y escla-
viz&da con los mismos auxilios, que ella destinaba
para la libertad y felicidad comun de la Nacion, de

75
the Cortes, with regard to Spain, disorganized, ex^
hausted, and nearly conquered ; and at the same time,
so much meanness, so much suspicion, prejudice,
and pride, towards America; tranquil, faithful,
generous, decided to aid her bretheren ; when it is
she alone who can give reality, ( in the most essential
point at least ) to the theoretical and brilliant plans,
which make the Spanish congress so exalted. How
many treasons, surrenders, assassinations, perfidies,
and convulsions, have not appeared in the revolution
of Spain ; these have passed by as the inseparable
misfortunes of circumstances, yet not one of the pro
vinces surrendered, or satisfied with the dominion of
the French, has been treated like Venezuela; their
conduct must however have been analyzed and cha
racterized according to reasons, motives, and circum
stances that dictated it; this must have been judged
in conformity to the rights of war, and the sentiments
of the nation must have been pronounced, accord
ing to the statements laid before it; but not one of
them has yet been declared traiterous, in rebellion,
and unnaturalized as was Venezuela; for none of them
has been created a public commission of diplomatic
mutineers, to arm Spaniard against Spaniard, to fan
the flame of civil war, and to burn and delapidate
all that cannot be held in the name of Ferdinand
the seventh. America alone, is condemned to en
dure the unheard of condition, of being warred upon,
destroyed, and enslaved, with the very aids, she.des-
tined for the liberty and common felicity of the nation,

76
que se Ie hizo creer fue parte por algunos mo-
wentos. Parsce que la independencia de la America causa
mas furor a la Espaiia que la oppression estrangera
que la amenaza, al ver que contra ella se emplean con
preferencia recursos qun no han nierecido aun las
Provincias que han aclamado al nuevo Rey. El ta-
lento incendiaro y agitador de un Ministro del Con-
sejo de Indias, no podia tener mas digno empleo que
el de conquistar de nuevo a. Venezuela con las armas
de los Alfingers, y Weslers * a nombre de un Rey
colocado en el trono, contra las pretensiones de la fa-
milia del que arrend6 estos paises a los Factores
Alemanes. Baxo este nombre se rompen contra no
sotros todos los diques de la iniquidad, y se renuevan
los horrores de la conquista, cuya memoria procura-
mos borrar generosamente de nuesta posteridad : baxo *
este nombre se nos trata con mas dureza que a los
mismos que lo han abandonado antes que nosotros :
y baxo este nombre se quiere continuar el sistema de
dominacion Espanola en America, que ha sido un
fenomeno politico, aun de los tiempos de la realidad^
energia, y vigor de ' la Monarquia Espanola. ^Y
podra darse alguna ley que nos obligue a conservarle,
y sufrir a, nombre suyo el torrente de amarguras que
descargan sobre nosotros los que se dicen sus apodera-
dos en la Peninsula ? Por medio de ellos ha logrado
su nombre los tesoros, la obediencia y reconocimiento
• Primeros tiranos de Venezuela, autorizados por Carlos V. y
ftfompvedores de la guerra cjvil entr» su» primitivog iabitantes,,

77
of which she was led to believe, for a few moments,
that she constituted part.
It appears that the independence of America,
creates more irritation to Spain, than the foreign op
pression that threatens her ; for against her, are pre
ferably employed, measures that have not even been
used against the very provinces, that have proclaim
ed the new king. The incendiary and turbulent
talent of a minister of the council of the Indies, could
not have a more dignified employment, than that of
again conquering Venezuela, with the same arms as
those of the Alfingers and the Weslers,* in the name
of a king placed on the throne, against the preten
sions of the family of him, who let out these pro
vinces to the German factors. Under this name, all
the sluices of iniquity are opened upon us, and the
horrors of the conquest are renewed, the remembrance
of which, we had generously endeavoured to blot out
from our posterity ; under this name, we are treated
with more severity, 'than those who abandoned it be
fore we did ; and under this name, it is attempted to
continue the system of Spanish dominion in America,
which has been held as a political phenomenon, even
in the times of the reality, energy, and vigour of the
Spanish monarchy. And can their be found, any law
that obliges us to preserve it, and to suffer in its name,
the torrent of distresses heaped upon us, by those who
call themselves its agents in the Peninsula? By their
* The first tyrants of Venezuela, authorized by Charles V, and,
the promoters of civil war amongst its primitive inhabitants.

78 •
de las Americas; por medio pues de su flagiciosa
condUcta en el exercicio de sus poderes ha perdido el
nombre de Fernando toda consideracion entre noso
tros, y debe ser abandonado para siempre.*

No contento el tirano de Borriquen* con hacerse'
Soberano para declararnos la guerra, insultarnos y
calumniarnos en sus insubstanciales, rastreros y adu-
ladores periodicos : no' satisfecho con haberse consti-
tuido el carcelero gratuito de los Emisarios de paz y
confederacion, que le envio su compafiero Miyares
desde el Castillo de Zaparas de Maracaybo, porque
trastornaban los planes que ya tenia recibidos y acep-
tados de la Regencia y el nuevo Rey de Espana, en
cambio de la Capitania General de Venezuela que
compro barata a, los Regentes : no creyendo bien re-
compensados tan relevantes meritos con el honor de
haber servido fielmente a, sus Reyes; robo con la
ultima impudencia mas de cien mil pesos de los cau
dales publicos de Caracas,que se habian embarcado en
la Fragata Fernando VII para comprar armamento
y ropa militar en Londres, baxo seguros de aquella
plaza; y para no dejar insulto por hacer , alego que
* Ex qua persona quis lucrum capit, factum praestare tenetur.
t Nombre primitive de lalsla de Puerto Rico.

73
means, this very name obtained the treasure, fh*
obedience and acknowledgement of America; and by
means of their flagitious conduct afterwards, in th^
exercise of their powers, the name of Ferdinand has
lost every consideration amongst us, and consequently
ought to be abandoned for ever.*
The tyrant of Borriquen,f not content with creat
ing himself into a sovereign, to declare war against
us, and with insulting and calumniating us in his
flimsy, mean, and flattering prints; not satisfied with
constituting himself into the gratuitous jail-keepe^
of the emissaries of peace and confederation, sent t©
him by his comrade Miyares, from the castle of
Zaparas de Maracaybo ; because they overturned the
plans he had received and accepted from the Regency,
and the new king of Spain, in exchange for the
Captain Generalship of Venezuela, purchased at a
cheap rate ' from the Regents ; not considering such:
superior merit sufficiently rewarded, with the honour
of faithfully serving his kings, in the most barefaced
manner, plundered more than one hundred thousand
dollars of the public funds, belonging to Caracas,
that had been embarked on board the ship Ferdinand
the seventh, in order to purchase stores and military
clothing in London, where the insurance was effected,
and in order that his insult might be the more com -
* Ex qua persona quis lucrum capir, ejus factum prastars
tenetur. t The primitive name of the island of Puerto Rico.

80
el gobierno Espaflol podria malvers"arlos, que la Iffi
glaterra podria apropriarselos desconociendo nuestra
resolution, y que en ninguna parte debian ni podian
estar mas seguros que en sus manos, negociados por
medio de sus socios de comercio, como en efecto lo
fueron en Filadelfia, para dar cuentas del capital
quando conquistase Puerto Rico a, Venezuela, se
rindiese esta a la Regencia, 6 volviese Fernando VII
a reynar en Espana : tales parecen los plazos que se
impuso a. si mismo el Gobernador de Puerto Rico
para dar cuenta de tan atroz y escandalosa depreda
tion ; pero no es esto solo lo que ha hecho este digno
agente de la Regencia en favor de los designios de sus
comitentes.

Aun apesar de tanto insulto, de tanto roboj y de
tanta ingratitud, permanecia Venezuela en su reso
lution de no variar los principios que se propuso por
norma de su conducta : el acto sublime de su represen
tation nacional, se publico a. nombre de Fernando
VII : baxo su autoridad fantastica se sostenian todos
los actos de nuestro gobierno y administration, que
ninguna necesidad tenia ya de otro origen que el del
Pueblo que la habia constituido : por las leyesy los
codigos de la Espaiia, se juzgo una horrible y san-
guinaria conspiration de los Europeos, y se infringie-
ron estas para perdonarles la vida, por no manchar
eon la sangre de nuestros perfidos hermanos, la filan-

81
plete, he alleged, that the Spanish government might
waste and misapply them, that England might appro
priate them to herself, disowning our resolution; so
that in no place they could, or ought to be more se
cure than in his hands, negotiated by means Of his
partners in trade, as in fact they were, in Philadel
phia, adding that account of the capital thereof, was
to be given in, when Puerto Rico had conquered Ve
nezuela, when the latter should deliver herself up to
the Regency, or when Ferdinand VII. should return
to reign in Spain. Such were the periods, it appears,
that the governor of Puerto Rico imposed upon him
self, to render in account of so atrocious and scanda
lous a depredation; but this is not all that this wor
thy agent of the Regency has done, in favour of the
designs of his constituents.
Notwithstanding so much insult, robbery, and in
gratitude, Venezuela maintained her resolution not
to vary the principles she had traced Put for her con
duct, the sublime act of her national representation
was proclaimed in the name of Ferdinand VII. un
der his fantastical authority, all the acts of Our go
vernment and administration were sustained, though
they required no other origin than the people who
had constituted them ; by the laws and regulations of
Spain was judged a horrible and sanguinary conspi
racy of the Europeans, which were even infringed to
save their lives, in order that the philanthropic me
mory of our revolution might not be stained with the
blood of our perfidious brethren; under the name of
«

82
tropica memoria de nuestra revolucion : baxoel nom
bre de Fernando, e interponiendo los vinculos de la
fraternidad y la patria, se procure ilustrar y reducir
a los mandohes de Coro y Maracaybo, que tenian
separados perfidamente de nuestros intereses a nuestros
hermanos del Occidente : baxo los auspicios del in-
teres reciprocotriunfamos de la opresion de Barcelona:
y baxo estos mismos reconquistaremos a Guayana
arrancada dos veces de nuestra confederation, como
lo esta. Maracaybo, contra el voto general de sus
vecinos. Parecia que ya no quedaba nada qne hacer para la
reconciliation de la Espana, 6 para la entera y ab
soluta separation de la America de un sistema de
generosidad tan ruinoso y funesto como despreciado y
mal correspondido ; pero Venezuela quiso agotar
todos los medios que estuviesen a, su alcance, para
que la justicia y la necesidad, no le dexasen otro par
tido de salud que el de la independencia que debio
declarar desde el 19 de Abril de 1810. Despues de
haber remitido a la sensibilidad, y no a la venganza
las horrorosas escenas de Quito, Pore y la Paz : des
pues de haberse visto apoyada nuestra causa, con la
uniformidad de sentimentos de Buenos Ay res, Santa
Fe, la Florida, Mexico, Guatemala y Chile ; des
pues de haber obtenido uua garantia indirecta pPr
parte de la Inglaterr a : despues de lograr reunir a su
, causa a Barcelona,, Merida y Truxillo: despues de
oir alabar su conducta por los hombres imparciales de
la Europa : despueg de ver triunfar sus principles

83
Ferdinand, and by the interposition of the bonds of
fraternity and patriotism, endeavours were made to
inform and reduce the imperious mandataries of Coro
and Maracaybo, who perfidiously kept separated
frorti-our interests, our brethren of the West; under
the auspices of reciprocal interest, we triumphedover
the oppressive acts of Barcelona, and under the same,"
we will reconquer Guayana, twice snatched from our
confederation, as was Maracaybo, against the gene
ral wishes of its inhabitants.
It would have seemed, that nothing was now left to
be done for the reconciliation of Spain, or for the en
tire and absolute separation of America from such a
system of generosity, equally as ruinous and calami
tous, as contemptible and ungrateful : but Venezue
la was desirous of draining every means left within
her reach, in order that justice and necessity should
leave her no other safe alternative than that of indepen
dence, which ought to have been declared from the
15th of July 1808, or from the 19th of April 1810.
After appealing to sensibility, and not to vengeance,
in the horrid scenes that occurred at Quito, Pore, and
La Paz: after> beholding our own cause supported
by the uniformity of opinions in Buenos Ay res, San
ta Fe, the Floridas, Mexico, Guatemala, and Chili;
after obtaining an indirect guarantee on the part of
England; after hearing our conduct applauded by
impartial men in' Europe; after seeing the same prin
ciples triumph from the Orinoko, as far as El Mag-
dalena ; and from Cape Codera, as far? as the

u
desde el Orinoco hasta el Magdalena, y desde el
Cabo Codera hasia los Andes, tiene que endurar nue
vos insultos, antes que tomar el partido doloroso de
romper para siempre con sus hermanos.
Sin haber hecho Caracas otra cosa que imitar a
muchas Provincias de- Espana, y usar de los misrnos
derechos que habia declarado en favor de ella y de
toda la America, el Consejo de Regencia: sin haber
tenido en esta conducta otros designios que los que le
inspiraba la suprema ley de la necesidad para no ser
envueltos en una suerte desconosida, y relevar a. los
Regentes del trabajo de atender al gobierno de paises
tan extensos como remotos, quando ellos protestaban
no atender sino a, la guerra : sin haber roto la unidad
e integridad politica con la Espana : sin haber des-
conocido, como podia y debia, los caducos derechos
de Fernando ; lexos de aplaudir por conveniencia,
ya que no por generosidad, tan justa, necesaria y
modestaresofueion; y sin dignarse contestar siquiera,
6 sometar al juicio dela nation nuestras quexas y re-
clamaciones, se la declara en estado de guerra, se
anuncia a sus habitantes como rebeldes, y desnatura-
lizados: se porta toda comunicacion con sus: herma
nos: se priva de nuestro comercio a, la Inglaterra : se
aprueba los excesos de Melendez, y se le autoriza
para cometer quanto le sugiriese la malignidad de
corazon, pormasopuesto que fuese a la razon y justi-
cia,como lo demuestra la orden de4 de Septiembre de
1810, desconocida por su monstruosidad aun entre los
desp6tas de Constantinopla y del Indostan ; y por no

85
Andes; we have still to endure fresh insults, before
we fly to the painful extreme of breaking with our
brethren for ever.
Caracas, without having done more than imitate
many of the provinces of Spain; and. used the same
rights which the Council of Regency declared in her
favour, as well as that of all America ; without hav
ing had in this conduct, other designs than those in
spired by the supreme law of necessity not to be in
volved in an unknown fate, and to relieve the Re
gents of the trouble of attending to the government
of countries, as well extensive as remote, at the same
time that they protested that they would attend to
nothing but the war; without having torn asunder
her unity and political integrity with Spain; with
out having disowned, as was possible and proper, the
lame rights of Ferdinand; far from applauding for
convenience, if not from sentiments of generosity, so
just, necessary, and modest a resolution, and without
answering even, or submitting to the judgment of
the nation our complaints and claims, is declared in
a state of war, her inhabitants are proclaimed rebels,
and unnaturalized ; every communication is cut off
with her brethren ; England is deprived of her trade,
the excesses of Melendez are approved, and he is au
thorized to commit whatever his malignity of heart
may suggest to him, however opposed to reason and
justice, as is proved by the order of the 4th of Sept.
1810, unheard of for its enormity, even amongst the
despots of Constantinople or Indostan; and not t»

86
faltar un apice a los tramites de la conquista, se en-
via baxo el nombre de pacificador un nuevo Encomen-
dero, que con muchas mas prerrogativas que los con*
quistadores y pobladores, seapostase en Puerto Rico
para "amenazar, robar, piratear, alucinar y am otinar
a unos contra otros, a nombre de Fernando VII.
Hasta entonces habian sido mas lentos los progresos
del sistema de subversion, anarquia y depredation
que se propuso la Regencia luego que supo losmovi-
mientos de Caracas; pero trasladadoyael foco princi
pal de la guerra civil mas cerca de nosotros, adquirie-
ron mas intensidad los subalternos, y se multiplicaron
los inceridios de las pasiones, y los esfuerzos de los
partidos que capitaneaban los Caudillqs asalariados
por Cortabarria y Melendez. Pe aqui la cnergia in-
cendiaria que adquirip la eflmera sedition de Occi-
dente: de aqui la discordia soplada de nuevo por
Miyares, hinphado y ensobervecido con la imaginaria
Capitania General de Venezuela : de aqui la sangre
Americana derramada a. nuestro pesar en las arenas
de Coro : de aqui los robos y asesinatos conjetidos en
nuestras costas por los piratas de la Regencia : de
aqui el miserable bloqueo destinado a seducir y com-
raover nuestras poblaciones litorales : de aqui los in-
sultos hechos al paveilon Ingles1: de aqui la decaden-
tia de nuestro comercio : de aqui las conjuraciones
de los Vallesde Aragua y Cumana: de aqui la hor-
rorosa perfidia de Guayana, y la deportation insul-
tante de sus Proceres a, las mazmorras de Puerto Rico:

87
deviate" in the least from the plots of the conquest, a
new Encomendero is sent out under the name of a pa
cificator, who, with more prerogatives than the con
querors and settlers themselves was to take his post in
Puerto Rico, and thence to threaten, rob, pirate,
deceive, excite civil disturbances, and all in the
name of Ferdinand VII.
Till then the progress of the system of subversion,
anarchy, and depredation, which the Regency pro
posed to itself on hearing of the movements of
Caracas^ had been but slow, but the principal focus
of the civil war, being transferred nearer to us,
the subaltern agents acquired more strength; the~
flames of the passions were multiplied, as well
as the efforts of the parties directed by the
chiefs hired by Cortavarria and Melendez. Hence
originated the incendiary energy acquired by the
ephemeral sedition of the West ; hence the discord
newly fanned by Miyares, rendered vain and arro
gant by the imaginary and promised Captain-general
ship of Venezuela ; hence the American blood, in
spite of ourselves, spilt on the sands of Coro; hence
the robberies and assassinations committed on our
coasts by the pirates of the Regency; hence that mi
serable blockade, intended to seduce and rise up our
shore settlements; hence the insults committed on the
English flag ; hence the falling off of our trade ;
hence the conspiracies of the vallies of Aragua aftd
Cumana; hence the horrid perfidy in Guyana, and
the insulting deportation of its leading characters- to

88
de aqui los generosos. e imparciales oficios de recon
ciliation, interpuestos sinceramente por un Represen
tante del Gobierno Britanico en las Antillas, y des-
pretiados por el pseudo pacificador:* de aqui, final -
mente, todos los males, todas lasatrocidades, y todos
los crimenes que son y seran eternamente inseparables
iie los nombres de Cortabarria y Melendez en Vene
zuela, y que han impelido a su gobierno a. ir mas
alia, de lo que se propuso al tomar a su cargo la suerte
de los que lo honraron con su confianza.

La mision de Cortabarria en el siglo 19, compara-
do el estado de la Espaiia que la decretory el de la
America a, quien se dirigia, demuestra hasta que
punto ciega el prestigio de la ambicion a, los que fun-
dan en el embrutecimiento de los Pueblos todo el
origen de su autoridad. Con este solo hecho habria
bastante para autorizar nuestra conducta. El espiritu
de Carlos V, la memoria de Cortes y Pizarro, y los
manes de Montezuma y Atahualpa se reproducen in-
voluntariamente en nuestra imagination, al ver reno-
vados los Adelantados, Pesquisidores, y Encomen-
deros en un pais, que contando trescientos anos de
sumision y sacrificios, habia prometido continuarlos,
sin otra condicion que la' de ser libre, para que la

* Oficio del Exemo. Sr. Almirante Cochrane, en la Secrefaria
? Estado. -

89
the Moorish dungeons of Puerto Rico;* hence the
generous and impartial offices of reconciliation, sin
cerely interposed by a representative of the British
government in the Antilles, and rejected by the
pseudo-pacificator ;f hence, in short, all the evils,
all the atrocities, and all the crimes, which are, and
ever will be, inseparable to the names of Cortavarria
and Melendez in Venezuela, and which have im
pelled her government to go beyond what was pro
posed, when it took upon itself the fate of those who
honoured it with their confidence.
The mission of Cortavarria in the 19th century,
and the state of Spain who decreed it, compared with
America, against whom it is directed, evinces, to what
an extreme the illusion of ambition blinds those, who
on the depravation of the people, found all the ori
gin of their authority. This act alone sufficed to
authorize our conduct. The spirit of Charles V.
the memory of Cortes and Pizarro, and the manes of
Montezuma and A'tahualpa, are involuntarily repro
duced to our imagination, when we see the Adelan-
tados , Pesquisidores, and Encomendoros \ renewed in
a country, which having endured 300 years of sub
mission and sacrifices, had promised to continue in
allegiance on the only condition of being free, in or-
* These are dungeons constructed like those of Tunis and AI.
giers. • + The official dispatch of Admiral C< ihrane iu 'he Secretary
of State's Offi e.
+ Offices peculiar to the first settlement of America;

90
servidumbre no maricillase el merito de la fidelidad.
La plenipotencia escandalosa du un hombre autori-
zado por en Gobierno intruso e ilegitimo, para que
con el nombre insultante de Pacificador despotizase,
amotinase, robase, y (para colmo del ultrage) perdo-
nase a. un Pueblo noble, inocente, pacifico, generoso
y dueno dc sus derechos, solo puede creerse en el
-delirio impotente de un gobierno que tiraniza a una
nation desorganizada y aturdida con la horrorosa
tempestad que descarga sobre ella ; pero como los
males de este desorden, y los abusos de aquella usur
pation podrian creerse no imputables a, Fernando re
conocido ya en Venezuela quando estaba impedido de
reraediar tanto insulto, tanto atentadb, y tanta vio-
lencia cometida en su nombre, creemos necesario re-
montar al origen de sus derechos, para descender a la
nulidad e invalidacion del generoso juramento con
que los hemos reconocido condicionalmente ; aunque
tengamos que violar, a. nuestro pesar, el esponr
taneo silencio que nos hemos impuesto sobre todo lo
que sea anterior a las jornadas dd Escorial y de
Aranjuez.

Es constante que la Americano pertenece, ni puede
pertenecer al territorio Espanol ; pero tambien lo es
que los derechos que justa 6 inj ustamente tenian a ella
losBorbones, aun que fuesen hereditarios, no podian
ser enagenados sin el consentimiento de los pueblos, y

91
der that the circumstances of slavery, might not
blemish the merit of fidelity, The scandalous pleni
tude of power confided to a man, authorized by an
intrusive and illegitimate government, that under the
insulting name of pacificator, he might despotize,
excite, rob, and (to crown the insult)- that he
might offer pardon to a people, noble, innocent,
tranquil, generous, and masters of their own rights ;
could only be credited in the impotent delirium of
a government that tyranises over a nation disorgan
ized and stunned by the horrid tempest that over
takes her; but as the ills of this disorder, and the
abuses- of such an usurpation might be considered
as not imputable to Ferdinand, already acknowledged
in Venezuela, at the same time that he was unable
to remedy so much insult, such excesses, and so much
violence committed in his name, we consider it ne
cessary to remount tp the origin of these same rights,
that we may then descend to the nullity and invali
dity of the generous oath by which we conditionally
acknowledged him ; notwithstanding we have, in
spite of ourselves, to violate the spontaneous silence
we had imposed upon us, respecting every thing that
was anterior to the transactions of El Escurial and
Aranjuez. It is an evident fact, that America does not belong,
to the territory of Spain, and it is moreover also true,
that the rights which the Bourbons, justly or un
justly, had to it, notwithstanding they were heredi
tary, could not be disposed of without the consent

92
particular mente de los de America, que al elegir en
tre la dinastia Francesa y Austriaca, pudieron hacer
en el siglo 17 lo que han hecbo en el 19. LaBula de
Alexandre VI, y los justos titulos que alego la casa
de Austria en el codigo Americano, no tuvieron otro
origen que el derecho de conquista, cedido parcial-
mente a. los conquistadores y pobladores por la ayuda
quepr estaban a la Corona para extender su domina
tion en America. Prescindiendo de la despobl ation
del territorip, del exterminio de los naturales, y de la
emigration que sufrio la supuesta Metroppli, parece
que acabado el furor de conquista : satisfecha la sed
de oro : declarado el equilibrio continental a, favor
de la Espana con la yentajosa adquisicion de la Ame
rica : destruido y aniquilado el gobierno feudal desde
el reynado de los Borbones en Espana : y sofocado
todo derecho que no tubiese origen' en las concesiones
6 rcscriptos del Principe, quedaron suspenses de los
suyos los conquistadores y pobladores. Demostrada
que sea la caducidad e invalidation de los que se ar-
rogaron los Borbones, deben revivir los titulos con
que poseyeron estos paises los Americanos descendien-
tes de los conquistadores; no en perjuicio de los
naturales y primitivos proprietarios, sino para igua-
larlos en el goce de la libertad, propriedad e indepen
dencia que han adquirido, con mas derecho que los

93
of the people, and particularly of those of Ameri
ca, who, on the election between the French and
Austrian dynasties, might have done in the 17th cen
tury, what they have now done in the 19th. The
bull of Alexander IV. and the just titles which the
house of Austria alledged in the American code, had
no other origin, than the right of conquest, partially
ceded to the conquerors and settlers, for the aid
they had rendered to the crown in order to ex
tend its dominion in America. Without taking into
consideration the depopulation of the country, the
extermination of the natives, and the emigration
which the supposed mother country sustained, it
appears, that when the fury of conquest had ceased ;
when the thirst for gold was satisfied; when the
continental equilibrium was declared in favour of
Spain, by the advantageous acquisition of America. ;
the feudal government destroyed and rooted up
from the time of the reign of the Bourbons in
Spain, and every right extinct that did not origi
nate in the new concessions or mandates of the
prince, the conquerors and settlers then became ab
solved of theirs. As soon as the lameness and
invalidity of the rights arrogated to themselves by
the Bourbons, is demonstrated; the titles by which the
Americans, descendents of the conquerprs, possessed
these countries, revive ; not in detriment to the na
tives and primitive proprietors, but to equalise
them in the enjoyment of liberty, property, and in-

94
Borbones, y qualquiera otro a quien ellos hayasn
cedido la America, sin consentimiento de los Am6-
~ ricanos, seiiores naturales de ella.
Que la Americano perteneccal territorio Espafiol,
es un principio de derecho natural, y una ley del dere'-
cho pOsitivo. Ninguno de los titulos justos 6 injus-
-tos que exfsten de su servidumbrfe, puede aplicarse a-
los Espanoles de Europa ; y toda la liberalidad de
Alexandro VI. no pudo haeer otra cosa que declarar
a. los Reyes Austriacos promovedores de la fe, para
hallar un derecho preternatural con que hacerlos
Seiiores de la America. Ni el titulo de Metropoli,
ni la prerrogativa de Madre Patria pudo ser jama*
un origen de Senorio para la Peninsula de Espana?
el primero lo perdio desde que salio de ella y renuncio
sus derechos el Monarca tolerado por los America
nos : y la segunda fue siempre 'un abuso escandaloso
de voces, como el de llamar felicidad a nuestra escia-
vitud, pi'otectores de Indios a. los Fiscales, e hijos a
los Americanos sin derecho ni dignidad civil. Por el
solo hecho de pasar los hombres de un pais a otro para
poblarlo, no adquieren propriedad los que no aban-
donan sus hogares,, ni se exponen a lasfatigas insepar-
rables de la emigration ; los que conquistan y adquie
ren la posesion del pais con su trabajo, industria, cul-
tivo y enlace con los naturales de el, son los que
tienen un derecho preferente a conservarlo y trans-
mitirlo a su posteridad nacida en aquel territorio ; y"
si el suelo donde nace el hombre fuese un origen de

95
dependence, which they always held by a right
stronger than {hat of the Bourbons, or of any others
to whom they may have ceded America, without the
consent of the Americans, its natural owners.
That America does not belong to the territory of
Spain, is a principle of natural, and a law of" posi
tive right. No title, just or unjust, which exists of
her slavery, can apply to the Spaniards of Europe;
and all the liberality of Alexander VI, could not do
more, than declare the Austrian kings promoters of
the faith, in order to find out for them a preternatu
ral right, whereby to make them Lords of America.
Neither the pre-eminence of the parent state, nor the
prerogative of the mother country, could at any time
ground the origin of Lordship on the part of Spain.
The first was lost, from the time that the monarch,
aknowledged by the Americans, left the country and
renounced his rights, and the second always amount-
ted to nothing more than ^ scandalous abuse of
words ; as was that of calling our slavery, felicity :
that of saying the fiscals were the protectors ' of the
Indians ; and that the sons of Americans were divest
ed of every right and civil dignity. By the mere act
of men passing from one country to another to settle
it, those who do not leave their homes, acquire no
property, nor do they expose themselves to the hard
ships inseparable to emigration. Those who conquer
and obtain possession of a country by means of their
labour, industry, cultivation, and connection with
the natives thereof, are they who have a preferable

9(5
la Soberania, 6 un titulo de adquisicion, scria la
voluntad general de los pueblos, y la suerte del
genero humano, una cosa apegada a, la tierra como
los arjboles, monies, rios y lagos.
Jamas pudo ser tampoco un titulo de propiedad
para el resto de un pueblo, el haber pasado a, otro una
parte de el para poblarlo ; por este derecho pertene-
ceria la Espana a los Fenicios 6 sus descendientes, y
a los Cartagineses donde quiera que sehallasen;* y
todas las naciones de la Europa tendrian que mudar
de domicilio para restablecer el raro derecho territo
rial, tan precario como las necesidades y el capricho
de los hombres. El abuso moral de la maternidad
dela Espana con respecto a la America, es aun toda
via mas insignificante : bien sabido es, que en el
6rden natural es del deber del padre emancipar al
hijo, quando saliendo dc la minoridad puede hacer
uso de sus fuerzas y su razon para proveer a, su sub-
sistencia; y que es del derecho del hijo hacerlo, quan
do 3a crueldad 6 disipaoion del padre 6 tutor, com-
prometen su suerte, 6 exponen su partrimonio a ser
presa de un codicioso 6 un usurpador : comparense
baxo estos principios los trescientos alios de nuestra
filiation con la Espana ; y aun quando se probase

* En esta paridad no se ehtra en las disputas de historia
prjmitiva.

97
right to preserve it and transmit it to their posterity
born therein ; for if the country where one is born,
were considered as an origin of sovereignty, or a
title of acquisition, the general will of nations, and
the fate Of the human race, Would then be riveted
to the soil, in like manner as are the trees, moun
tains, rivers and lakes.
Neither could it ever be considered as a title of
property to the rest of a nation, for one part thereof
to have past over to another country to settle it ; for
by a right of this nature, Spain herself would belong
to the Phoenicians, their descendants, or to the Car-
thagenians, wherever they may be found* ; even the
whole of the nations of Europe, would have to
change their abodes to make room and re-establish so
singular a territorial right ; home would then be
come as precarious as are the wants and caprices of
men. The moral abuse of the maternity of Spain,
with regard to America, is still more insignificant,
for it is well known, that in the natural order of
things, it is the duty of the father to emancipate his
son, as soon as getting out of his minority, he is
able to use his strength and reason to provide for his
own subsistence ; and also, that it is the duty of the
son to emancipate himself, whenever the cruelty or
extravagance of the father or tutor endanger his well-
being, or expose his patrimony to be the prey of a
miser or an usurper. Under these principles, let a
* In this comparison, no notice is taken of the disputes respect
ing primitive history. H

98
que ella fue nuestra madre, restaria aun por probar
que nosotros somos todavia sus hijos menores 6 pu-
pilos. Quando la Espana ha revocado en duda los dere
chos de los Borbones y de qualquiera otra dinastia,
unica fuente, aunque no muy clara, del dominio Es-
pariol en America, parecia que estaban los America
nos relevados de alegar razones para destruir unos
principios caducos ya en su origen ; mas como puede
hacerse cargo a. Venezuela del juramento conditional
con que reconocio a. Fernando VII el Cuerpo Re-
presentativo que ha declarado su independencia de
toda Soberania extrana,no quiere este augusto Cuerpo
dexar nada al escrupulo de las conciencias, a los presti-
gios de la ignorancia, y a. la malicia de la ambition
resentida, con que desacreditar, calumniar y debili-
tar una resolucion tomada con la madurez y deteni-
miento proprios de su importancia y trascendencia.
Sabido es que el juramento promisorio de que
tratamos, no es otra cosa que un vinculo accesorio,
que supone siempre la validacion y legitimidad del
contrato que por el se ratifica : quando en el contrato
no hay ningun vicio que lo haga nulo o ilegitimo,
basta esto para creer que Dios irtvocado por el jura
mento, no rehusara ser testigo y garante del cum-
plimiento de nuestras promesas ; por que la obliga
tion de cumplirlas, esta fundada sobre una^ maxima

99
comparison be made of the three hundred years Of
bur filiation to Spain ; and even when it should be
proved that she was our mother, it would still re
main to be proved, that we are yet her minors or
pupils. At any period, When Spain has entertained any
doubt of the rights of the Bourbons, orof any other
dynasty, the only source, and- that not very clear, of
the Spanish dominion in America; it appeared as if
the Americans were excluded from alleging any
reasons that might destroy such claims, doubtful
from their Very origin ; but as Venezuela may be
hereafter reproached for the conditional oath by
which the representative body ihat now declares its
independence of every other foreign power, pre
viously acknowledged Ferdinand VI Ith; this same
aUgust body feels anxious that no" handle should be
left for the scruples of conscience, for the illusions
of ignorance, and for the malice of wourided ambi
tion, whereby to discredit, calumniate, and weaken
a resolution, taken with a maturity and deliberation
suitable to its magnitude and importance.
It is well known, that the promissory oath in
question, is no more thah an accessory bond, which
always pre-supposes the validity and legitimacy of'
the contract ratified by the same. When in the
contract, there is no vice which may render it null.
and illegitimate, it is, that we believe, that God
invoked by an eath, will not then refuse to witness
and guarantee the fulfilment of our promises, be-*
H 2

100
evidente de la ley natural, instituida por el divino
Autor. Jamas podra. Dios ser garante de nada que
no sea obligatorio en el orden natural, ni puede
suponerse que acepte contrato alguno que se oponga
a las leyes que el mismo ha establecido para la felici
dad del genero humano. Seria insultar su sabiduria,
creer que puede prestarse a. nuestros votos quando
nos pluga interponer su divino nombre en un contrato
qUe choque contra nuestra libertad, unico origen de
la moralidad de nuestras acciones : semejante suposi-
cion indicaria que Dios tenia algun interes en multi-
plicar nuestros deberes, en perjuicio de la libertad
natural, por medio de estos compromisos. Aun
quando el juramento aiiadiese nueva obligation a la
del contrato solemnizadp por el, siempre seria la
nulidad del uno inseperable de la nulidad del otro ; y
si elque viola un Contrato jurado es criminal y digno
de castigo, es porqufe ha quebrantado la buena fe,
Unico lazo dela sociedad; sin que el perjurio haga
otra cosa que aUmentar el delito, y agravar la pena.
La ley natural que nos obliga a, cumplir nuestras
promesas, y la divina que nos prohibe invocar el nom
bre de Dios en vano, no alteran en nada la natnraleza
le las obligaciones contraidas baxo los efectos simul-
eos e inseperables de ambas leyes, de modo que la
"cion de la una, supone siempre la infraction de
Para nuestro mismo bien tomamos a Dios

101
cause the obligation to comply with them, is founded
on an evident maxim of the natural law, instituted
by the Divine Author. God can at no time gua
rantee any thing, that is not binding in the natural
order of things, nor can it be supposed he will ac
cept of any contract, opposed to those very laws he
himself has established, for the felicity of the human
race. It would be to insult his wisdom, to believe,
that he is capable of listening to our vows, when we
implore his divine concurrence to a contract, that
clashes with our own liberty, the only origin of the
morality of our actions; such a supposition would
indicate, that God had an interest in multiplying our
duties, in prejudice to natural liberty, by means of
such agreements. Even when the oath were to add
any new obligation to that of the contract thereby
confirmed, the nullity of the one, would at all times
be inseparable to the nullity of the other; and if he
who violates a sworn contract, is criminal and wor
thy of punishment, it is, because he has violated good
faith, the only bond of society ; without the per
jury doing more than serving to increase the crime,
and to aggravate the punishment. That natural law
which obliges us to fulfil our promises, and that
divine one which forbids us to invoke the name of
God in vain, do not in any manner alter the nature
of the obligations contracted under the simultaneous
and inseparable effects of both laws ; so that the
infraction of the one, supposes the infraction of the
other. For our own good,, we call on God tp wit-

m
por testigo de nuestras pwomesas, y quando creemps
que puede salir garante de elias, y vengar su violation,
ies solo porque nada tiene en si el contrato capaz de
hacerlo invalido, ilicito, indigno, 6 contrario a la
eterna justicia del arbitro supremo, a quien lo some-
temos. Baxo e'stos principios debe analizarse el jura
mento conditional con que el Congreso de Venezuela
ha.prometido conservar los derechos que legitima-
mente tuviese Fernando VII ; sin atribuirle ninguno
que siendo contrario a. la libertad de sus Pueblos,
invalidase por lo mismo el contrato, y anulase el
juramento. ' Hemos visto, al fin, que a impulsos de la con
ducta de los gobiernos de Espana, han llegado los
Venezolanos a conocer la nulidad en que cayeron
los tolerados derechos de Fernando por las jornadas
del Escorial y Aranjuez, y los de toda su casa por
las cesiones y abdicaciones de Bayona : de la demos-
tracion de esta verdad, nace como un corolario la
nulidad de un juramento que, ademas de condicional,
no pudo jamas subsistir mas alia del contrato a. que
fue afiadido como vinculo acccsorio. Conservar los
derechos de Fernando, fue lo unico que prometio
Caracas el 19 de Abril, quando ignoraba aun si los
habia perdido*; y quando aunque los conservase "¦
con respecto a la Espana, quedaba todavia por de-
* Judicio caret juramenlum incautura. Div. Tom. 22. p. 89.
art. 3. Si vero sit qui.dem possibile fieri ; sed fieri non debeat, vel
quia est per se malum, vel quia est boni impeditivum, tunc jura
mento deest justitia, et ideo non est servandum. Quest, cit. art. 7.

103
ness our promises, and when we believe that he can
guarantee them and avenge their violation, it is
alone, because the contract has nothing in itself ca
pable of rendering it invalid, illicit, unworthy of, or
contrary to, the eternal justice of the Supreme Arbi
ter, to whom we submit it. Under these princi
ples it is that we are to analyze the conditional oath
by which the Congress of Venezuela has promised to
preserve the rights legally held by Ferdinand VIL
without attributing to it any other, which, being
contrary to the liberty of the people, would of conse
quence invalidate the contract, and annul the oath.
We have at length seen, that, impelled by the
conduct of the governments of Spain, the people of
Venezuela became sensible of the.circumstances, by
which the tolerated rights of Ferdinand VII. were
rendered void in consequence of the transactions of
Ei Escurial and Aranjuez ; as well as those of all
his house, by the cessions and abdications made at
Bayonne ; and from the demonstration of this truth,
follows, as a corollary, the invalidity of an oath,
which, besides being conditional, could not subsist
beyond the contract to which it Was added, as an
accessory bond, To preserve the rights of Ferdi
nand, was all that Caracas promised on the 19th of
April, at a time she was ignorant he had lost Ihem* ;
*Judicio caret juramentum incautum. Div. Tom. 22 p. 89.
art. 3. Si vei'o sit quidem possibile fieri; sed fieri non debeat, vel
quia est per se malum, vel quia est boni impeditivum, tunc jura-
aiento deest justitia, et ideo non est servandum. Quest, cit. art. 7«

104
mdstrar si podia eeder por ellos la America a otra
dinastia, sin su consentimiento. Las noticias que
apesar de la opresion y suspicacia de lo^intrusos go
biernos de Espana, ha adquirido Venezuela de la
conducta de los Borbones, y los efectos funestos que
iba a. tener en America esta conducta, han formado
un cuerpo de pvuebas irrefragables, de que no teni-
endo Fernando ningun derecho, debio caducar, y ca-
duco la conservaduria que le prometio Venezuela,
y el juramento que solemnizo estapromesaf. De
la primera parte del aserto, es consequencia legitima
la nulidad de la segunda.

Ni el Escorial, ni Aranjuez, ni Bayona, fueron
los primeros teatros de las transacciones que despo-
jaron a, los Borbones de sus derechos sobre la Ame
rica. Ya se habian quebrantado en Basilea y en la
Corte de Espana, las leyes fundamentales de la domi
nation Espanola en estos paises*. Carlos IV.
cedio contra una de elias f la Isla de Santo Do
mingo a la Francia, y enagend la Luisiana en ob-
- sequio de esta Nacion extrangera; y estas inauditas
+ Jurabis in veritate, etinjudicio, etin justitia. Jerem. Cap. 4.
J Tratado de Basilea de 1 5 de Julio de 1 795.
§ Ley 1. tit. 1. de la Recopil. de Indias.

105
and even if he retained them, with regard to Spain,
it remains to be proved, whether, by virtue of the
same, he was able to cede America to another dy
nasty, without her own consent. The advices,
Which in spite of the oppression and cunning of the
intrusive governments of Spain, Venezuela was en
abled to obtain of the conduct of the Bourbons, and
the fatal effects the same was about to entail on Ame
rica, have constituted a body of irrefragable proofs,
evincing, that as Ferdinand no longer retained any
Tights, the preservation thereof, which Venezuela
promised, as well as the oath by which she confirmed
this promise, consequently are, and ought to be done
away.* Of the first part of the position, the nullity
of the second, becomes a legitimate consequence.
But neither the Escurial, Aranjuez, or Bayona,
were the first theatres of the transactions, which de
prived the Bourbons of their rights to America. Al
ready in Basil and in the court of Spain, the funda
mental laws of tfie Spanish dominion in these c»un-
tries, had been broken through. f Charles IV, con
trary to one of them,cede4 the island of St. Domingo
to France,^ and disposed of Louisiana to the same
foreign power, which unheard of, and scandalous in-
* Jurabis in veritate, et in judicio, et in justicia. Jerem.
Cap. 4.
+ The treaty of Basil made on the 15th July 1795, and by
which Godoy obtained the title of Prince of Peace.
t Law 1, Tit. 1, of the Recopil de Indias.

106
y escandalosas infracciones autorizaron a los Ame
ricanos contra quienes se cometieron, y a toda la
posteridad del pueblo Colombiano para separarse de
la obediencia y juramento que tenia prestado a la
corona de Castilla, como tuvo derecho para protestar
contra el peligro inminente que amenazaba a. la in-
tegridad de la monarquia en ambos mundos, la in
troduction de las tropas Francesas en Espana antes de
la Jornada de Bayona; llamadas sin duda por alguna
de las facciones Borbonicas, para usurpar la sobe
rania nacional a favor de un intruso, de un estran-
gero, 6 de un traydor; pero estando estos sucesos
del lado de alia, de la linea que hemos demarcado a
nuestras razones, bolveremos a. pasarla para enfrar
en las que han autorizado nuestra conducta desde el
ano de 1808.
Todos conocen el suceso del Escorial en 1807 ;
pero quiza habra. quien ignore los efectos naturales de
semejante suceso. No es nuestro animo entrar a averi-
guar el origen de la discordia introducida en la casa
y familia de Carlos IV. ; atrybuyensela reciproca-
mente la Inglaterra y la Francia ; y ambos gobiernos
tienen acusadores y defensores : tampoco es de nuestro
proposito el casamiento ajustado entre Fernando y la
entenada de Bonaparte : la paz de Tilsit : las confe-
rentias de Erfuhrt : el tratado secret© de S. Cloud:
y la emigration de la casa de Braganza al Brazil.
Lo cierto y lo propio de nosotros, es que por la Jor
nada del Escorial, quedo Fernando septimo decla-
rado traydor contra su padre Carlos IV. Cien,

107
fractions, authorized the Americans, against whom, .
they were committed, as well as the whole of the
Columbian people, to separate from the obedience
and lay aside the oath, by which they had bound them
selves to the crown of Castile, in like manner, as they
were ^entitled to protest against the eminent danger,
which threatened the integrity of the monarchy in
both worlds, by the introduction of French troops
into Spain, previous to the transactions of Bayona -
invited there, no doubt, by one of the Bourbon
factions, in order to usurp the national sovereignty
in favour of an intruder, a foreigner, or a traitor ;
but as these events are prior to the period we have
fixed for our discussion, we will return to treat of
those which have authorized our conduct, since the
year' 1808.
Every one is aware of the occurrences which hap
pened at the Escurial, in 1807, but perhaps every
one is not acquainted with the natural effects of these
events. It is not our intention here to enter into the
discovery of the origin of the discord that existed in
the family of Charles IV. let England and France
attribute it to themselves, both governments have
their accusers and defenders; neither is it to our
purpose to notice the marriage agreed on between
Ferdinand and the daughter-inlaw of Buonaparte,
the peace of Tilsit, tne conferences at Erfuhrt, the
secret treaty of St. Cloud, and the emigration of the
house of Braganza to the Brazils. What most ma
terially concerns us, is, that by the transactions of

108
plumas y cien prensas publicaron a un tiempo por
ambos mundos su perfidia, yel perdon que a, sus
ruegos le concedio su padre ; pero este perdon como
atributo de la soberania y de la autoridad paterna,
relevo al hijo unicamente de la pena corporal ; el
Rey su padre rio tuvo facultad para dispensarle la
infamia y la inhabilidad que lasleyesconstitucionales
de Espana imporien al traydor, no solo para obtener
la dignidad Real, pero ni aun el ultimo de los cargos
y empleos civiles. Fernando no pudo ser jamas Rey
de Espana, ni de las Indias.

A esta condition quedo reducido el heredero de la
Corona, hasta el mes de Marzo de 1808, que hal-
Iandose la Corte en Aranjuez, se reduxo por los par-
ciales de Fernando a. insurrection y motin, el proy-
ecto frustrado en el Escorial. La exasperation pnb-
lica contra el ministerio de Godoy, sirvio de pretex-
to a la faccion de Fernando, para convertir indirec-
tamente en provecho de la nacion lo que se calcul6,
tal vez, baxo otros designios, El haber usado de la
fuerza contra su padre: el no haberse valido de la
suplica y el eonventimiento : el haber amotinado el
pueblo : el haberlo reunido al frente del palacio para
sorprehenderlo, arrastrar al ministro, y forzar al Rey
a abdicar la corona; lejos de darle derecho a. ella, no
liizo mas que aumentar su crimen, agravar su trai-
cion, y consumar su inhabilidad para subir a un tro-

109
El EscUrial, Ferdinand VII. was declared a traitor
against his father, Charles IV. A hundred pens,
and a hundred presses published at the same time in
both worlds, his perfidy, and the pardon which at
his prayer, was granted to him by his father, but
this pardon as an attribute of the sovcreigntv and of
paternal authority, only absolved the son from cor -
poral punishment; the king his father, had no power
to free him from the infamy and inability which the
constitutional laws of Spain impose on the traitor,
not only to hinder him from obtaining the royal dig
nity, but even the lowest office or civil employment.
Ferdinand, therefore, never could be king of Spain,
or of the Indies.
To this condition the heir of the crown remained
reduced, till the month of March, 1808, when,
whilst the court was at Aranjuez, the project frus
trated at the Escurial was converted into insurrec
tion and open mutiny, by the friends of Ferdinand.
The public exasperation against the ministry of Go-
doy,served as a pretext to the faction of Ferdinand, and
as a plea indirectly to convert into the good Of the
nation, what was perhaps calculated under other de
signs. The fact of using force against his father;
his not rather recurring to supplication and con
vincing arguments; his having excited mutiny
on the part of the people; his having assembled
them in front of the palace in order to surprise
it, to insult the minister, and force the king
to abdicate his crown; far from giving him any

no
no desOcupado por la violencia, la perfidia y las fac-
ciones. Carlos IV. ultrajado, desobedecido y amena-
zado con la fuerza, no tubo otro partido favorable a.
su decoro y su venganza; que emigrar a. Francia para
implorar la proteccion de Bonaparte; a favor de sU
dignidad real ofendida. Baxo la nulidad de la re-
nuncia de Aranjuez, se jiiritan en Bayona todos los'
Borbones, atraidos contra la voluntad de los pueblos,
a cuya salud prefirieron sus resentimientos particu
lars : ftproveehose de ellos el Emperador de los
Franceses, y quando tuvo baxo sus armas y su influxo
a. toda la fam ilia de Fernartdo, con varios proceres
Espanoles y suplentes por Disputados en Cortes,
hizo que aquel restituyese la corona a, su padre, y que
este la renunciase ,en el Emperador, para trasladarla
en seguida a. su hermano Jose Bonaparte:

Ignoraba todo esto, 6 sabialo ttiuy por encima Ve
nezuela, quando llegaron a. Caracas los emisarios del
nuevo Rey. La inocencia de Fernando en contra
position de la insolencia y despotism© del favorito
Godoy, fue el movil de su conducta, y la norma de
la de las autoridades vacilantes el 15 Julio de 1808;
y entre la alternativa de entregarse a una Potencia.
extraiia, o de ser fiel a un Rey que aparecia desgra-

Ill
title to it; only fended to increase his crime, to ag-»
gravate his treachery, and complete his inabilitv to
ascend the throne, vacated by means of violence,
perfidy, and factions. Charles IV. outraged, dis
obeyed, and threatened with force, had no other
alternative left him, suitable to his decorum, and fa
vourable to- his vengeance ; than to emigrate to
France to implore the protection of Buonaparte, in
favour of his offended royal dignity. Under the
nullity of the abdications of Aranjuez, all the Bour
bons assemble in Bayona, carried there against the
will of the people, to whose safety they preferred
their own particular resentments ; the Emperor of
the French, took advantage of them, and when he
held under his controul, and within his influence, the
whole family of Ferdinand, as well as several of the
first Spanish dignitaries and substitutes for deputies
in the Cortes ; he caused the son to restore the crown
to his father, and the latter then to make it over to
him the Emperor, in order that he might afterwards
confer it on his brother Joseph Napoleon.
Venezuela was ignorant of all this, or at least on
ly knew it partially, when the emissaries of the new
king reached Caracas. The innocence of Ferdi
nand, compared with the insolence and despotism of
the favourite Godoy, impelled and directed her con
duct, when the local authorities wavered on the 15th
of July, 1808; and beingleft to choose between the
alternative of delivering herself up to a foreign

112
eiado y perseguido, triunfo la ignorancia de los su
cesos del verdadero interes de la patria, y fue reco
nocido Fernando, creyendo que mantenida por este
medio la unidad de la nacion, se salvaria de la opre-
sjon que la amenazaba, y se rescataria un Rey de
cuyas virtudes, sabiduria y derechos estabamos fal-
sameute procupados. Menos que esto necesitaban
los que contaban con nuestra buena fe para oprimir-
nos : Fernando inhabil para obtener la corona, ini-
posibilitado de cefiirla, anunciado ya sin derechos a
la sucesion por los Proceres de Espana, incapaz de
gobernar la America, y baxo las cadenas y el influxo
de una Potencia enemiga, se volvio desde entonces,
por la ilusion, un Principe legitimo, pero desgra-
ciado, se fingio un deber el reconocerlo, se volvieron
sus herederos y apoderados, quantos tuvieron au-
dacia para decirlo, y aprovechando la innata fide
lidad de los Espanoles de ambos mundos, empezaron
a, tiranizarlos nuevamente los intrusos gobiernos que
se apropiaron la Soberania del pueblo a nombre de
un Rey quimerico ; y hasta la Junta mercantil de
Cadiz, quiso exercer dominio sobre la America.

113
power, or of remaining faithful to a king, who ap
peared unfortunate and persecuted, the ignorance of
events triumphed over the true interests of the coun*
try, and Ferdinand was acknowledged, under a belief
that, by this means, the unity of the nation being
maintained, she would be saved from the threatened
oppression, and a king be ransomed, of whose
virtues, wisdom and rights, we were falsely prepos
sessed. But less was requisite to oppress us, on the
part of those who relied on our good faith. Ferdinand,
disqualified and unable to obtain the crown ; pre
viously announced by the leaders of Spain as dispos
sessed of his rights to the succession ; incapable of
governing in America, held in bondage, and un
der the influence of a foreign power; from that
time, became by illusion, a legitimate but unfortu
nate prince ; it was feigned a duty to acknowledge
him ; as many as had the audacity to call themselves
such, became his self-created heirs and representa
tives, and taking advantage of the innate fidelity of
the Spaniards of both worlds, and forming themselves
into intrusive governments, they appropriated to
themselves the sovereignty of the people, in the name
of a chimerical king, began to exercise new tyrannies,
and even of the commercial Junta of Cadiz sought
to extend her control over America.

114
Tales han sido los anfecedentes y las conseqiiencias
de un juramento, que dictado por la sencillez y la
generosidad, y conservado conditional mente por la
buena fe, quiere ahora oponerse para perjietuar los
males que la costosa experiencia de tres anos, nos ha
demostrado como inseparables de tan funesto y ru-
inoso compromiso. Ensenados como lo estamos por
la serie de males, insultos, vexaciones, e ingratitudes
que hemos patentizado, desde el 15 de Julio de 1808,
hasta el 5 de Julio de 1811; tiempo es ya de que
abandonemos un talisman, que inventado por la igno
rancia, y adoptado por la fidelidad, esta desde en
tonces amontonando sobre nosotros todps los males
de la ambigiiedad, la suspicacia y la discordia. De
rechos dp Fernando y representacion legitima de
ellos, por parte de los intrusos gobiernos de Espana:
fidelidad y obligaciones de compasion y gratitud, por
la nuestra, son loS dos resortes fayoritos que se ju-
egan alternativamente para sostener nuestra ilusion,
devorar nuestra sustancia, prolongar nuestra degra
dacion, multiplicar nuestros males, y prepararnos a.
recibir pasiva e ignominiosamente la suerte que nos
destinen los que tan buena nos la estan haciendo por
tres siglos. Fernando VII. es la contraseiia uni
versal de la tirania en Espana y en America.

Apenas se conocio la vigilante desconfianza que
habian producido entre nosotros las inconseqiicnCias,
artes y falsias de los rapidos y raros gobiernos que

115
Such have been the antecedents and consequences
of an oath, which dictate*' by candour and generosity,
and conditionally maintained by good faith, is now
brought against us, in order to perpetuate those
evils, which the dear bought experience of three
years has proved to be inseparable to so fatal and
ruinous an engagement. Taught, as we are, by a
series of evils, insults, hardships and ingratitudes
during an interval from the 15th of July, 1808, till
the 5th of July, 1811, and such as we have already
fully manifested; it becomes full time that we should
abandon a talisman invented by ignorance, and
adopted by a misguided fidelity, for ever since it
was, it has not failed to heap upon us all the evils
attendant on an ambiguous state, and on suspicion
and discord. The rights of Ferdinand, and the le
gitimate representation of them on the part of the
intrusive governments of Spain, fidelity and the ob
ligations of compassion and gratitude on ours, are
the two favourite springs alternately played to sus
tain our illusion, to devour our substance, prolong
our degradation, multiply our evils, and to prepare
us ignominiously to receive that passive fate, pre
pared for us by those, who have dealt with us so
kindly for three centuries. Ferdinand the Seventh,
is the universal watch -word for tyranny in Spain,
as well as America.
No sooner was that vigilant and suspicious fear,
produced amongst us by the contradictory acts, the
arts and falsehoods of the strange and short-lived go-
I 2

116
.se estan sucediendo en Espana desde la Junta de Se-
villa, se apelo a una aparente liberalidad, para cu*
brir de flores el lazo que no veiamos quando esta-
bamos cubiertos con el velo de la sencillez, rasgado
all fin por la desconfianza. Con este fin se acele-
raron y congregaron tumultuariamente las Cortes
que deseaba la nacion, que resistia el gobierno Co-
mercial de Cadiz, y que se creyeron al fin necesa-
rias para contener el torrente de la libertad y la jus
ticia, que rompia por todas partes los diques de la
opresion y la iniquidad en el nuevo mundo; pero
aun todavia se creyo que el habito de obedecer, re-
conocer y depender seria en nosotros superior al
desengaiio que a. tanta costaacababamnsde adquirir.
Increible parece por que especie de prestigio funesto
para la Espana, se cree que la parte de la nacion
que pasa el oceano, 6 nace entre los tropicos, ad-
quire una constitution para la servidumbre, incapaz
de ceder a los conatos de la libertad. Tan notorios
como fatales son los efectos de esta arraigada preo-
cupacion, convertida al fin en provecho de la Ame
rica. Tal vez sin ella no hubiera perdido la Es
paiia el rang© de nacion; y la America no tendria
que pasar para adquirirlo, por los amargos tramites
de una guerra civil, mas ominosa para sus promo
vedores que para nosotros mismos.

117
verhments, Which have succeeded one another in
Spain, since the Junta of Seville, there made known,
than they recurred to a system of apparent liberality
towards us, in order to cover with flowers the very
snare we had not perceived whilst shrowded by the
yeil of candour, at length rent asunder by mistrust;
For this purpose, were accelerated and tumultuously
assembled the Cortes^ so desired by the nation, yet
opposed by the commercial government of Cadiz^
but which were at length considered necessary, in
order to restrain the torrent of liberty and justicP,
which in every quarter burst the mounds of oppres
sion and iniquity in the new world : still it was sup
posed that the habit of obedience, submisssion, and
dependence, would, in us, be superior to the convic
tion, which at so great an expence, we had just ob
tained. It appears incredible by what kind of de
ception, fatal to Spain, it is believed, that the part
of the nation which passes the ocean^ or is born un
der the tropics, acquires a constitution suitable' to
servitude, and incapable of ceding to the efforts of
liberty. As notorious to the world, as they are fa
tal, are the effects of this strong rooted prejudice, at
length converted into the good of America. Per
haps without it, Spain wonld not have lost the rank
of a nation, and America, in obtaining it, would
not haye had to have passed through the bitter ordeal
of a civil war, more ominous still for its promoters,
than for ourselves.

118
Harto demostrados estan un nuestros papeles
publicos, * los vicios de que adolecen las Cortes con
respecto a la America, y el ilegitimo e insultante ar-
bitrio adoptado por elias para darnos una representa
tion que resistiriamos. aun que fuesemos, como vo-
cifero la Regencia, partes integrantes de la nacion,
y no tuviesemos otra quexa que alegar contra su go
bierno, sino la escandalosa usurpacion que hace de"
nuestr©s derechos, • quando mas necesita de nuestr©s
auxilios. A su noticia habran llegado, sin duda,
las razones que dimos a. su perfido enviadof quando
frustradas las misiones anteriores, inutilizadas las
quantiosas remesas de gazetas llenas de triunfps, re-
fprmas, heroicidades y lamentos, y conocida la inefi-
cacia de los bloqueos, Pacificadores, esquadras y ex-
pediciones, se crey6 que era necesario deslumbrar el
amor propio de los Americanos, sentando baxo el
Solio de las Cortes a los que ellos no habian nom-
brado, ni podian nombrar los que los crearon su-
plentes con los de las Provincias ocupadas, some-
tidas y contentas con la dominicion Francesa. Por
si estuviese ya usado este resorte pueril, tan fecund©
para la Espana, se previno al enviado, que se esco-
* Gazetas de Caracas de 4 de Enero, y siguientes.
+ Conducta execrable y notoria de Mon-tenegio, desnatursl-
iiado por el Gobierno Espauol.

119
Our public prints have already sufficiently well
manifested the defects, under which the Cortes
laboured respecting America, and the illegal and in
sulting measures by them adopted, to give us there
in, a representation which we could not but oppose,
even though we were, as the Regency had loudly
boasted us to be, integral parts of the nation, and
had no other complaints to allege against their
government, than the scandalous usurpation o£
our rights, at a moment they most required our aid.
They will have been informed, no doubt, of the
reasons we gave their perfidious envoy, * at a time
that the former missions being frustrated, the great
shipments of newspapers, filled with triumphs, re
forms, heroic acts, and lamentations, being rendered
useless, and the inefficacy of blockades, pacificators,
squadrons, and expeditions, made known ; it was
thought necessary to dazzle the self lOve of the Ame
ricans, by seating near the throne of the Cortes,
members whom the latter had never named, nor who
could be chosen by those who created them into their
substitutes, as in like manner they did others for the
provinces in possession of the French, and submitted
to, and content with their dominion. In case this
puerile measure, of which Spain has been prolific,
* Caracas Gazettes of the 4th of January and the following
ones. See also the remonstrance of the American Deputatiou ta
the Cortes, dated August 1, 1810.
Montenegro, execrable and notorious for his conduct, and un-s
naturalized by the Spanish government;

120
gio Americano y Caraqueiio para aumentar la ilu-
sion : que en caso de que prevaleciese la energia ca
racterizada de rebelion, contra la perfidia bautizada
con el nombre de fraternidad, se atiZase la hoguera
de las pasiones encendida en Coro y Maracaybo; y
que la discordia sacudiendo de nuevo las vivoras de
su cabeza, conduxese de la mano al Heraldo de las
Cortes con el estandarte de la rebelion, por los alu-
cinados distritos de Venezuela que no hubiesen po-
dido triunfar de sus tiranos.
Forjabanse, empero, nuevos ardides, para que el
doblez y la astlicia preparasen el camino a las huestes
sanguinarias de los caudillos de Coro, Maracaybo, y
Puerto-Rico : convencidas las Cortes de que la con
ducta de Fernando, sus vinculos de afinidad con el
Emperador de los Franceses, y el influxo de este
sobre todos los Borbones constituidos ya baxo su
tutela, empezaban a. debilitar las capciosas im-
presiones que habia producido en los Americanos la
fidelidad sostenida a la sombra de la ilusion, se em-
pczaron a. abrir contrafuegos para precaver el incen-
dio prendido por elias mismas, y limitarlo a lo preciso
y necesario para sus vastos, complicados, y remotos
designios. Para esto se escribio el eloqiiente mani-
fiesto. que asestaron las Cortes en 9 de Enero de este
aiio a, la America, con una locution digna de mejor
objeto : baxo la brillantez del discurso, se descubria

121
should not have its due effect, the envoy was direct
ed, (and an American and a native of Caracas, in
order to add to the illusion, was for this purpose
selected) that in case the energy of the country, now
defined rebellion, should prevail against perfidy to
which the name of fraternity was given, he was to
add fuel to the flame of the passions, already kindled
in Coro and Maracaybo, and that discord, again
raising her serpent head, was to lead the herald of
the Cortes by the hand under the standard of re
bellion, through the deceived districts of Venezuela,
which had not been able to triumph over their
tyrants. New artifices were still forged, in order that du
plicity and cunning, might prepare the road to the
sanguinary armies of the chiefs of Coro, Maracaybo,
and Puerto Rico ; and when the Cortes were con
vinced that the conduct of Ferdinand, his bonds of
affinity with the Emperor of the French, and the
influence of the latter over all the Bourbons already
placed under his tutelage, began to weaken the insi
dious impressions, which fidelity, sustained by illu
sion, had produced in the Americans; preventatives
were placed, in order to stop the flame thus enkindled,
and limit it to what was yet necessary for their vast,
complicated, and remote designs. For this purpose,
was written the eloquent manifest which the Cortes
aimed on the 9th of January, 1811, against Ame
rica, worded in a style worthy of a better object,
but under the brilliancy of diction, the back ground

122
el fondo de la perspectiva presentada para alucinarnos.
Temiendo que, nos anticipasemos a protestar tddas
esfas nulidades, se empezo a calcular sobre lo que se
sabia, para no aventurar lo que se ocultaba. Fer
nando desgraciado, fue el pretexto que atraxo a sus
pseudo-represeotantes, los tesoros, la sumision, y la
esclavitud de la America, despues de la Jornada de
Bayona; y Fernando seducido enganado y prostituido
a los designios del Emperador de los Franceses, es ya
lo ultimo a, que apelan para apagar la llama de la
libertad que Venezuela ha prehdido en el continente
Meridional. En uno de nuestros Periodicos * hemos
descubierto el verdadero espiritu del manifiesto en
question, reducido al siguiente raciocinio que puede
mirarse como su exacto comentario " La America se
efve amenazada de ser victima de una Nacion ex-
" traria, 6 de continual* esclava nuestra ; para reco-
ec brar sus derechos y no depender de nadie, ha creido
" necesario no romper violentamente los vinculos que
" la ligaban a estos pueblos ; Fernando ha sido la
" serial de reunion que ha adoptado el nuevo mundo,
" y hemos seguido nosotros ; el esta sospechado de
" connivencia con el Emperador de los Franceses, y
" si nos abandonamos ciegamente a, reconocerlo, da-
" mos un pretexto a los Americanos, que nos crean
" aun sus Representantes para negarnos abiertamente
* Mercurio Venezoiano de Febrero de 1811.

123
of the perspective, designed to deceive us, was dis
covered. Fearing that We should be beforehand
to protest against the whole of these nullities, they
began to calculate on what was already known, not
to risque what was yet hidden. The misfortunes of
Ferdinand, were the pretexts that had obtained
for his pseudo -representatives, tlie treasures, sub
mission and slavery of America, after the events
of Bayona ; and Ferdinand seduced, deceived
and prostituted to the designs of the Emperor of the
French, is now the last resourse to which they fly,
to extinguish the flames of liberty, which Vene
zuela had kindled in the South Continent. In one of
our periodical works,* we have discovered the true
spirit of the manifest in question, reduced to the fol
lowing reasoning, which may be considered as an
exact commentary: — " America is threatened to be-
' ' come the victim of a foreign power, or to continue
' ' to be our slave ; but in order to recover her rights,
" and throw off all dependency whatever,she has con-
" sidered it necessary not violently to break the ties
" which held her bound to this country. Ferdi-
" nand has been the signal of re-union which the new
" world has adopted, and we have followed ; he is
" suspected of connivance with the Emperor of the
" French, and if we give ourselves up blindly to
" acknowledge him, we afford the Americans a
" pretext for believing us still his representatives
* Mercurio Venezoiano for Feb. 1811.

124
"esta representacion : puesto que ya empiezan a
" traslucirse en algunos puntos de America estos
"designios, manifestemos de antemano nuestra in-
" tencion de no reconocer a Fernando, sino con cier-
" tas condiciones ; estas no se verificaran jamas ; y
" mientras que Fernando, ni de hecho ni de derecho
" es nuestro Rey, Io seremos nosotros de la America,
" y este pais tan codiciado de nosotros, y tan dificil
" de mantener en la esclavitud, no se nos ira. tan
" pronto de las manos."

Este relucicnte aparato de liberalidad es ahora el
muelle real y visible de la complicada maquina des-
tinada a conmover la America ; al paso que entre las
quatro paredes de las Cortes se desatiende nuestra
justicia, se eluden nuestros esfuerzos, se desprecian
nuestras resoluciones, se sostienen a. nuestros enemi
gos, se sofoca la voz de nuestros imaginarios repre-
sentantes, se renueva para ellos la Inquisicion* al
paso que se publica la libertad de Imprenta, y se con-
trovierte si la Regencia pudo declararnos Iibres, y
parte intregante de la nacion :f Quando un Ameri
cano digno de este nombre levanta la voz contra los

* Hay noticiaa positivas de que el Sr. Mexia, Suplente de
Santa Fe, ha sido encerrado en la Inquisicion por su liberalidad
de ideas.
+ El Conciso. Los Diarios de Cortes ; y quantos papeles
tienen de Espana.

125
" and openly denying us this character, and as these
" designs already begin to be understood in some
" parts of America, let us previously manifest our
" intention, not to acknowledge Ferdinand but
" under certain conditions; these will never be
" carried into effect, and whilst Ferdinand neither in
" fact, or right, is our king, we shall be enabled to
" reign over America, which country so much
'¦' coveted by us, and so difficult to maintain in
" slavery, will not then so easily slip through our
" fingers."*
This resplendent appearance of liberality, is now
the real and visible spring, of the complicated machine
destined to stir up, and excite commotions in Ameri
ca ; at the same time, that within the walls of the Cor
tes, justice to us is overlooked, our efforts are eluded,
our resolutions contemned, our enemies upheld, the
voices of our imaginary representatives suppressed,
the inquisition is renewed f against them, at the same
time that the liberty of the press isproclaimed,anditis
controversially discussed, whether the Regency could
or not, declare us free, and an integral part of the
nation. | When an American, worthy of that name,
* These are expressions put into the mouth of a Spaniard, and
illustrative of the opinions agitated in the Cortes respecting the
allegiance to Ferdinand.
+ El Sr. Mexia, was at one time in danger of being put into
the inquisition, for his liberal sentiments.
? Vide El Conciso, The Diarios of Cadiz, and all the papers
that came from Spain.

abusos de la Regencia en Puerto-Rico, se procuraron
acallar teoricamente los justos, energicos, e impe-
riosos reclames que lo distinguen de los satelites del
despotismo, y con un decreto breve, amaiiado, e in-
significante, se procura salir del conflicto de la jus
ticia contra la iniquidad. Melendez, nombrado Rey
de Puerto Rico por la Regencia, queda por un De
creto de las Cortes con la investidura equivalente' de
Gobernador, nombres sinonimos en America:* por
que ya parecia demasiado monstruoso que hubiese
dos Reyes en una pequefia Isla de las Antillas Es-
pariolas. Cortabarria solo bastaba para eludir los
efectos del decreto dictado solo por un involuntario
sentimiento de decencia. Asi fue, que quando se
declaraba iniqua, arbitraria, y tiranica la investidura
eoncedida por la Regencia a. Melendez, y se am-
pliaba la revocation a todos los paises de America
que se hallasen en el mismo caso que Puerto-Rico,
nada se decia del Plenipotenciario Cortabarria, au-
torizado por la misma Regencia contra Venezuela,
con las facultades mas raras y escandalosas de que
hay memoria en los fastos del despotismo organic©.
Despues del Decreto de las Cprtes es que se han
sentido mas los efectos de la discOrdia, promovida,
sostenida, y calculada desde el fatal observatorio de
Puerto-Rico : despues del decreto de las Cortes han
sido asesinados inhumanamente los pescadores y cos-
* Representacion de Don Ramon Power a las Cortes, contra
la orden de la Regencia de 4 de Septiembre de 1810.

127
raises his voice against the abuses of the Regency, in
Puerto Rico: endeavours are made to silence his just,
energetic, and imperious claims, which distinguish
him from the satellites of despotism, and by means of
a decree, short, cunning, and insignificant, they
strive to get out of the conflict of justice against
iniquity. Melendez, named king of Puerto Rico
by the Regency, by a decree of the Cortes is left with
the equivalent investiture of governor, synonimous
names in America;* because it now appeared, too
monstrous to have two kings, in a small island of the
Spanish Antilles. Cortavarria alone, was sufficient
to elude the effects of a decree, only dictated by an,
involuntary sentiment of decency. Thus it happened,
that when the investiture, granted by the Regency
to Melendez was declared iniquitous, arbitrary, and
tyrannical, and a revocation was extended to all the
countries of America, then situated as was Puerto
Rico, nothing was said of the plenipotentiary Corta
varria, authorized by the same Regency against
Venezuela, with powers, the most uncommon and
scandalous, ever remembered in the annals of organi-
cai despotism.
It was after this decree of the Cortes, that the
effects of that discord, promoted, sustained, and aimed
from the fatal observatory of Puerto Rico, were more
severely felt ; it was after this decree, that the fisher
men and coasters were inhumanly assassinated in
Ocumare, by the pirates of Cortavarria; after the
publication of the same, Cumana and Barcelona
* Remonstrances of Don Ramon Power to the Cortes, against
the order of the Regency of the 10th of Sept. 1810.

128
tatteros en Ocumare, por los Piratas de Cortabarria:
despues del decreto de las Cortes, han sido bloque-
adas, amenazadas e intimadas, Cumana y Barcelona:
despues del decreto de las Cortes se ha organizado y
tramado una nueva y sanguinaria conjuracion contra
Venezuela, por el vii Emisario introducido perfi-
damente en el seno pacific© de su patria para devo-
rarla, Se ha alucinado a la clase mas sencilla y labo-
riosa de los alienigenas de Venezuela, se han sacri-
ficado a la justicia y la tranquilidad los caudillos con-
ducidos, a nuestro pesar, al cadalso : por las su-
gestiones del Pacificador de las Cortes, despnes del
decreto de estas, se ha turbado e interrumpido en
Valencia, la unidad politica de nuestra constitution :
se ha procurado seducir, en vano, a otras Ciudades
de lo interior : y se ha hecho una falsa intimacion a
Carora por los facciosos de Occidente, para que en
un mismo dia quedase sumergida Venezuela en la
sangre, el 11 ant© y la desolation, asaltada hostilmente
por quantos puntos han estado al alcance de los agi-
tadores, que tiene esparcidos contra nosotros el mis
mo gobierno que expidio el decreto a favor de Puerto-
Rico, y de toda la America. El nombre de Fer
nando VII, es el pretexto con que va a devorarse el
nuevo mundo ; si el exemplo de Venezuela no hace
que se distingan, de hoy mas, las banderas de la li
bertad clara y decidida, de las de la fidelidad ma-
liciosa y simulada.
El amargo deber de vindicarnos nos llevaria mas

129
were blockaded, threatened, and summoned ; a new
and sanguinary conspiracy, against Venezuela, was
plotted and organized, by a vile emissary, who perfi
diously entered the pacific bosom of his country, in
order to devour it; deceptions were successively
practised on the most innocent and laborious classes
of the imported colonists * of Venezuela; and in spite
of our endeavours, the chief instigators were lead
to the block, as a sacrifice to j ustice and tranquility.
By the suggestions of the Pacificator of the Cortes,
and posterior to their said decree, the political unity
of our constitution was interrupted in Valencia ; at
tempts were in vain made to seduce other cities of the
interior ; a false summons was sent to Carora by the
factious leaders of the West, in order that on the
same day, Venezuela might be deluged in blood, and
sunk in affliction and desolation; be hostilely as
saulted from every point within the reach of the con
spirators, who were scattered amongst us by the same
government, which issued the decree in favour of
Puerto Rico and of all America. The name of Fer
dinand VII. is the pretext under which the new'
world is about to be laid waste, if the example of
Venezuela does not henceforward cause the banners
of an unshaken and decided liberty, to be distinguished
from those of a malicious and dissembled fidelity.
The bitter duty of vindicating ourselves would
still carry us further, if we did not dread splitting
* These are principally emigrants from the Canary Islands,
employed in tillage, remarkable for their sobriety and industry.

130
alia, si no temiesemos caer en el escollo de los go
biernos de Espana, substituyendo el resentimiento* a
la justicia; quando podemos oponer tres siglos de
agravios contra ella, por tres anos de esfuerzos licitos,
generosos, y filantropicos, empleados en vano para
" obtener lo que jamas pudimos enagenar. Si fuesen
la hiel y el veneno los agentes de esta nuestra solemne,
veraz, y sencilla manifestacion, hubierambs empezado
a, destjuir los derechos de Fernando por la ilegitimi-
dad de su origen, declarada en Bayona por su madre,
y publicada en los peri6dicos Franceses y Espanoles:
hariamos valer los defectos personales de Fernando,
su ineptitud para reynar, su debil y degradada con
ducta en las Cortes de Bayona, su nula e insignifi-
cante educacion, y las ningunas seiiales que di& para
fundar las gigantescas esperanzas de los gobiernos de
Espana, que no tuvieron otro origen que la ilusion
de la America, ni otro apoyo que el interes politico
de la Inglaterra, muy distante de los derechos de los
Borbones. La opinion publica de Espana, y la ex
periencia de la revolucion del Reyno, nos suministra-
rian bastantes pruebas de la conducta de la madre, y
de las qualidades del hijo, sin recurrir al manifiesto
del Ministro Azanza, * y a, las memorias secretas de
Maria Luisa; pero la decenciaes la norma de nuestra
condncta: a ella estamos prontos a sacrificar nuestras
* Publicado despues de la Jornada de Bayona, y circulado en
•sta Capital, apesar de la anterior opresion.

131
on the same rocks as the government of Spain, by
substituting resentment for justice ; at the same time
that we can charge her with three centuries of in
juries, backed by three years of lawful, generous
and philanthropic efforts, in vain expended to obtain
what it was never in our power to dispose of Had
gall and poison been the chief agents of this our
solemn, true and candid manifest, we should have
began by destroying the rights of Ferdinand, in con-*
sequence of the illegitimacy of his origin, declared
by his mother in Bayona, and published in the
French and Spanish papers; we should have proved
the personal defects of Ferdinand, his ineptitude to
reign, his weak and degraded conduct in the Cortes
Of Bayona, his inefficient and insignificant education,
and the want of proofs which he never gave to found
the gigantic hopes of the governments of Spain*
which had no other origin than the illusion of Ame
rica, nor any other support than the political interest
of England, much opposed to the rights of the Bour
bons. The public opinion of Spain, and the expe
rience of the revolution of the kingdom, furnish us
with sufficient proofs of the conduct of the mother,
and the qualities of the son, without recurring to
the manifest of Minister Azanza * and the secret me
moirs of Maria Louisa ; but decency is the guide of
our conduct, t© her we are ready to sacrifice our
* Published after the transactions of Bayona, and circulated in
Caracas, notwithstanding the former oppression.
R 2

132
mejores razones ; hartas son las alegadas para demos-
trar la justicia, necesidad y utilidad de nuestra reso
lution, a cuyo apoyo solo faltan los exemplos con que
vamos a. Cellar el juicio de nuestra independencia.

Es necesario que los partidarios de la esclavitud
del nuevo mundo proscriban 6 falsifiquen la historia,
ese nionumento inalterable de los derechos y usurpa
tions del genero human©, para sostener que la Ame
rica no pudo estar sujeta a la alternativa de todas las
naciones. Aun quando hubiesen sido incontestables
los derechos de los Borbones, e indestructible el
juramento que hemos desvanecido, bastaria solo la
injusticia, la .fuerza, y el engafio con que se nos ar-
ranco, para que fuese nulo e" invalido, desde que
empezo a conocerse que era opuesto a. nuestra liber
tad, gravoso a nuestros derechos, perjudicial a nues
tros intereses, y funesto a. nuestra tr an quilidad. Tal
es la naturaleza del juramento prestado a, los conquis
tadores,© a losherederos de estos, mientras tienen opri-
midos los pueblos con la fuerza que les proportion©
la conquista. De otro modo no hubiera jamas reco-
brado su libertad la Espaiia juramentada a los Carta -
gineses, Romanos, Godos, Arabes, y casi a, los
Franceses, en el mismo tiempo que deconocia los
derechos de la America para no depender de nadie,
desde que pudo hacerlo, como la Espana y las demas
Naciones. Superfluo seria recordar a nuestros enemi-

133
best reasons. Sufficient has already been alleged to
prove the justice, necessity and utility of our reso
lution, to the support of which nothing is wanting,
but the. examples by which we will strive to justify
our independence.
It were necessary for the partizans of slavery in the
new world, either to destroy, or to falsify history,
that unchangeable monument of the'rights and usur
pations of the human race, before they could main
tain that America was not liable to the same changes
that all other nations have experienced. Even when
the rights of the Bourbons had been incontestible,
and indelible the oath, which we have proved not to
exist; the injustice, force and deceit, with which
the same was snatched from us, would suffice to ren
der it void and of no effect, as soon as it was dis -
covered to be opposed to our liberty, grievious to
our rights, prejudicial to our interests, and fatal to
our tranquility. Such is the nature of the oath made
to the conquerors, and to their heirs, at the same
time that the crown holds them in oppression by
means of that same additional strength it obtained by
the resources of their conquest. In this manner it
was, that Spain herself recovered her rights after she
had sworn allegiance to the Carthagenians, Romans,
Goths, Arabs, and almost to the French ; neverthe
less she yet disowns the rights of America, no longer
to depend on any nation from the time she is capable
of throwing off its yoke, and following the example
both of Spain*, and of other nations, It would be

134
gos lo que ellos misrnos saben, y en lo que ellos mis
rnos han fundado el derecho sagrado de su libertad e
independencia, digna, por cierto de no ser mancillada
con la esclavitud de la mayor parte de la nacion situa-
da del otr© lado del oceano ; pero no son ellos, por
desgracia, los unicos a, quien necesitamos convencer
con exemplos palpables, de la justicia, y semejanza
comun que tiene nuestra independencia con la de
todas las naciones que la han perdido, y han vuelto a,
Tecobrarla. Cebados los prestigios de la servidumbre
en la sencillez de los Americanos, y sostenidos por el
abuso mas criminal que puede hacer la superstition
del dogma y la religion, dicta da para la libertad, feli
cidad, y salvation de los pueblos ; precis© es tranqui-
lizar la piedad alucinada, ilustrar la ignorancia sor-
prehendida, y estimular la apatia alhagada con la
tranquilidad de los calabozos; para que todos sepan
que los gobiernos no tienen, no han tenido, ni puedan
tener otra duracion que la utilidad y felicidad del
genero humano ; que los Reyes no son de una natura-
leza privilegiada, ni de un orden superior a, los demas
hombres; que su autoridod emana de la voluntad de
los pueblos, dirigida y sostenida por la Providencia
de Dios que dexa nuestras acciones al libre alvedrio :
que su omnipotencia no interviene a, favor de tal 6 tal
forma de gobierno ; y que nila religion ; ni sus Mi-

135
superfluous to remind our enemies of what they al
ready know, and in what they have themselves
founded the sacred right of their own liberty and in
dependence; epochs so memorable, that they were
worthy of not being tarnished with the slavery of the
greatest part of the nation, situated on the other
side of the ocean. But unfortunately, it is not they
alone whom it is requisite to convince by palpable
examples, of the justice. and common resemblance
our independence bears with that of all other nations
which had lost, and again recovered it. The illusions
of slavery, kept alive by the candour of the Ame
ricans, and sustained by the most criminal abuse*
that can be made by superstition of the established be
lief and religion, which one would suppose were only
dictated for the liberty, felicity and salvation of the
people ; renders it necessary to tranquilize the de
ceived piety of some, to instruct their unwary ig
norance, and stimulate their apathy, that had slum
bered since the unusual tranquility of the new order
of things ; it is, in short, time to inculcate, that go
vernments never had, nor can have, any other du
ration than the utility and felicity of the human race,
that kings are not of any priviledged nature, nor of
an order superior to other men; that their au
thority emanates from the willof the people, directed
* The excommunications denounced against the people of Ca.
rasas for changing their government,

' 136
nistros anatematizan, ni pueden anatematizar los
esfuerzos que hace una nation para ser independiente
en el orden politico, y depender solo de Dios y dp su
Vicario.en el orden moral, y religioso.

El Pueblo de Dios gobernado por el mismo,
y dirigido por milagros, portentos y beneficios,
que tal vez no se repetiran jamas, ofrece una
pTueba del derecho de insurrection de los pueblos,
que nada dexara. que desear a. la piedad ortodoxa, de
los amantes del orden publico. Sugetos los Hebreos a,
Faraon, y ligados a. su obediencia por la fuerza, se
reunen a Moyses, y baxo su direcion, triunfan de sus
enemigos, y recobran su independencia, sin que el
mismo Dios, ni su Caudillo Profeta y Legislador
Moyses les increpase su conducta, ni los snjetase a
ninguna maldicion ni anatema : subyugadps 'despues
por la fuerza de Nabucodonosor primero, baxo la
direction de Olofernes, envia el mismo Dios a, Judith
que rescatase la independencia de su pueblo con la
muerte del General Babilonio. Baxo Antioco Epi-
fanes, levantaron Matatias y sus hijos el estandarte
de la independencia ; y Dios bendixo y ayudo N sus
esfuerzos hasta conseguir la entera libertad de su
pueblo contra la opresion de aquel Rey impio, y

137
and supported by the Providence of God, who leaves
our actions to our own free will; that his omnipo
tence does not interfere in favour of this or that form
of government,^ and that neither religion or its mi
nisters can anathematize the efforts of a nati©n strug
gling to be free and independent in the poetical or
der of things, and resolved to depend only on God,
and on his vicar in a moral and religious sense.
The very people of God governed by himself, and
directed by such miracles, portentuous signs and fa
vours, as perhaps will never again be repeated, offer
a proof of the rights of insurrection on the part of
the people, sufficiently satisfactory to the orthodox
piety of the friends of public order. The Israelites, '
subject to Pharaoh, and bound to his obedience by
force, collect round Moses, and under his direction
triumph over their enemies, and recover their inde
pendence, without either God, or his chief prophet
and legislator Moses, blaming them for their con
duct, or subjecting them to the least malediction or
anathema. This same people being afterwards sub
jected by the forces of Nebuchadnezzar the First,
under the direction Holofernes, God himself sends
Judith to obtain their independence, by the death of
the Babylonian General. Under Antiochus Epi-
phanes, Mathathias and his sons raised the standard
of independence, and God blessed and aided his efforts
till he obtained the entire liberty of his people, against
the oppression of that same impious king and his sue-

138
sus sucesores. * No solo contra los Reyes extrange
ros que los oprimian usaron los Israelitas del derecho
de insurreccion, quebrantando la obediencia a, que
los ligaba la fuerza ; cntralos que el mismo Dios
les habia dado dentro de su patria y familia, les ve-
mos recljgjnar este derecho imprescriptible, siempre
que lo exfgia su libertad, su utilidad, y el sagrado
de los pactos con que el mismo Dios los sugeto a los
que eligi© para gobernar los. David obtiene el re-
conociiniento de los Hebreos a. favor de su dinastia, y
suhijo Salomon lo ratifico a favor de su posteridad ;
pero apenas muere este Rey que habia oprimido a sus
vasallos con pechos y contribuciones, para sostener el
fausto de su Corte, y el luxo y suntuosidad de sus
placeres, queda solo reconocido su hijo Roboam por
las tribus de Juda y Benjamin : las otras diez, usando
de sus derechos, recobran su independencia politica ;
y en fuero de ella depositan su soverania en Jeroboam,
hijo.de Nabath. La dureza momentanea y pasagera
del Re^nado de Solomon basto a. los Hebreos para
anular la obediencia prestada a, su dinastia, y colocar
a otra en el trono, sin aguardar a. que Dios les hu
biese dicho que ya su suerte no dependia de los Reyes
de Juda, ni de los Ministros, Sacerdotes y Caudillos
de Solomon. ^ Y sera de peor condition el pueblo
eristiano de Venezuela, para que declarado libre
por el gobierno de Espaiia, despues de trescieptos-
* Machab. Lib. 1. Cap. 2.

130
cessors.* Not only against the foreign kings who
oppressed them, did the Israelites make use of the
right of insurrection, by breaking through the obe
dience to which they were bound by force; but even..
against those whom God had given them in their own
country, and of their own nation, do we behold them
claim this inprescriptible right, whenever their li
berty and their advantage required it, or when the
sacred character of those pacts, by which God himself
bound them to those he chose as their governors,
had been profaned. David obtains the allegiance of
the Israelites in favour of his dynasty, and his son
Solomon ratified it in favour of his posterity, but
scarcely was this king dead, who had oppressed his
subjects by exactions and contributions to support
the splendour of his court, and the luxury and sump-
tuousness of his pleasures, than the tribes of Judah
and Benjamin alone acknowledged his sop, and the
other ten, availing themselves of their rights, recover
their political independence, and in exercise thereof,
deposit their sovereignty in Jeroboam, son of Na-
bath. The momentaneous and passing hardships of
the reign of Solomon, sufficed for the Israelites to
annul their obedience sworn to his line, and to place
another on the throne, without waiting for God to
tell them, that their fate no longer depended on the
kings of Judah, nor on the ministers, priests, or
chiefs of Solomon. And shall the christian people
* Machab. Lib. 1 cap. 2,

140
anos de cautiverio, pechos, vexaciones e injusticias,
no pueda hacer lo que el mismo Dios de Israel que
adora, permitio en otro tiempo a. su pueblo, sin in-
dignarse, ni argiiirlo en su furor ? Su dedo divino es
el norte de nuestra conducta, y a sus eternos juicios
quedara gometida nuestra resolution.

Si la independencia del pueblo Hebreo no fue un
pecado contra la ley escrita ; no podra serlo la del
pueblo Cristiano contra la ley de gracia. Jamas ha
excomulgado la Silla Apostolica a ninguna nacion
que se ha levantado contra la tirania de los Reyes 6
los gobiernos que violaban el pacto social. Los
Suizos, los Holandeses, los Franceses y los America
nos del Norte proclamaron su independencia, tras-
tornaron su constitution, y variaron la forma de su
gobierno ; sin haber incurrido en otras censuras que
las que pudo haber fulminado'la Iglesia por los aten-
tados contra el dogma, la disciplina 6 la piedad, y
sin que estas trascendiesen a, la politica, ni al orden
civil de los pueblos. Ligados estaban los Suizos con
juramento a la Alemania, como lo estaban los
Holandeses a la Espana, los Franceses a. Luis XVI,
y los Americanosa Jorge III, pero ni ellos, ni los de
mas Principes que favorecieron su independencia,
fueron excomulgados por el Papa. El abuelo de
Fernando VII, uno de los Reyes mas piadosos j

141
of Venezuela be still in a worse plight, and after
being declared free by the government of Spain, after
300 years of captivity, exactions, hardships and in-
justice, shall they not be allowed to do what the God
of Israel, whom they equally adore, formerly per
mitted to his people, without being spurned, and
without vengeance being deprecated upon them ? It
is his divine hand that guides our conduct, and to his
eternal judgements our resolution shall be sub
mitted. If the independence of the Hebrew people was not
a sin against the written law, that of a Christian
people cannot be such against the law of grace. At no
time has the Apostolical see excommunicated any na
tion that has risen up against the tyranny of those kings
or governments, which had violated the social compact.
The Swiss, Dutch, French, and North Americans, pro
claimed their independence, overturned their consti
tution, and varied their forms of government, without
having incurred any other spiritual censures than
those which the church might have fulminated for
the infringements on the belief, discipline or piety,
but without their being connected with political mea
sures, or alluding to the civil transactions of the
people. The Swiss were bound by oath to Germany ;
as were also the Dutch to Spain ; the French to
Louis XVI. and the Americans to George IIL,
yet neither they, nor the other prinees who favoured
their independence, were excommunicated by the
Pope. The grand- father of Ferdinand VII. one of

142
©atolicos que han ocupado el trono de Espana, pro-
tegio con su sobrino Luis XVI la independencia de
la America del Norte; sintemerlas censuras eclesi-
asticas, ni la colera del cielo ; y ahora que el orden
delos sucesos la presenta con mas justicia a, la Ame
rica del Sur, quieren los que se dicen apoderados de
su nieto, abusar de la Religion que tanto respeto
Carlos III, para continuar en la mas atroz e inaudita
delas usurpaciones  j Dios just©, Dios omnipo-
tente, Dios piadoso ! ^ Hasta quando ha de dispu-
tar el fanatismo, el imperio a la sagrada Religion,
que enviaste a la sencilla America para tu gloria y
su felicidad ?
Los sucesos que se han acumulado en la Europa
para terminar la servidumbre de la America, han
entrado, sin duda, en los altos designios de la Pro-
videncia. Al traves de dos mil leguas de oceano, no
hemos hecho otra cosa, en tres anos que han trans-
currido desde que debimos ser Iibres e independientes,
hasta que resolvimos serlo, que pasar por los amar-
gos tramites de las asechanzas, las conjuraciones, los
insultos, las hostilidades y las depredaciones de los
misrnos a. quienes convidabamos a. participar de los
bienes de nuestra regeneracion, y para cuya felicidad
queriamos abrir las puertas del nuevo mundo, escla-
vizado a. la comunicacion del viejo, devastado e in*
cendiado por la guerra, la hambre y la desolation.
Tres distintas oligarquias nos han declarado la guerra,

143
the most pious and catholic kings that ever filled the
throne of Spain, together with his nephew Louis X VL
protected the independence of North Ameriea, with^
out dreading ecclesiastical censures, or the anger of
heaven ; and now that the order of events more j ustly
places it within the reach of South America, those
who call themselves the authorized agents of his
grandson, wish to abuse that same religion, so much.
respected even by Charles III. in order to prolong
the most atrocious and unheard of usurpations. —
Just, omnipotent, and merciful God ! Till when
will fanaticism dispute the empire of that sacred reli
gion, which thou sent to the uncorrupted regions of
America, for thy glory and her felicity ?
The events which have accumulated in Europe,
to terminate the servitude of America, have, beyond
doubt, entered into the high designs of Providence.
Placed at a transatlantic distance of two thousand
leagues, wte have done nothing, in the three years
which have elapsed since we ought to be free and
independent, till the period when we resolved to be so,
than pass through the bitter trials of stratagems, con
spiracies, insults, hostilities and depredations, on
the part of that same nation whom we invite to par
take of the goods of our regeneration, and for whose
felicity we wished to open the gates of the new
world , heretofore closed to all communication with
the old one; now wasted and inflamed by war,
hunger, and desolation. Three distinct oligarchies
have declared war against us, have contemned

144
han despreciado nuestros reclamos, han amotinado &
nuestros hermanos, han sembrado la desconfianza y
el rencor entre nuestra gran familia, han tramado
tres horribles conjuraciones contra nuestra libertad,
han interrumpido nuestro comercio, han desalentado
nuestra agricultura, han denigrado nuestra conducta,
y han concitado contra nosotros las -fuerzas de la
Europa, implorand©, en vano, su auxilio para opri-
mirnos. Una misma bandera, una misma lengua,
una misma religion, y unas mismas leyes, han confun-
dido, hasta ahora, el partido de la libertad con el de
la tirania : Fernando VII ' libertador, ha peleado
contra Fernando VII opresor ; y sino hubiesmos re-
suelto abandonar un nombre sinonimo del crimen y la
virtud, seria al fin esclavizada la America, con lo
mismo que sirve a la independencia de la Espana.
De tal naturaleza han sido los imperiosos de-
senganos que han impelido a Venezuela, a separar
para, siempre su suerte, de un nombre tan ominoso y
fatal. Colocada por el en la irrevocable disyuntiva
de ser esclava 6 enemiga~de sus hermanos, ha que-
rido comprar la libertad a. costa de la amistad ; sin
impedir los medios de reconciliacion que desea. Ra
zones muy poderosas, intereses muy sagrados, medi-
taciones muy serias, reflexiones muy profundas, dis-
cuciones muy largas, debates muy sostenidos, com-
binaciones muy analizadas, sucesos muy imperiosos,
riesgos muy urgentes, y una opinion publica bien
pronunciada y sostenida, han sido los datos que han

145 '
bur claims^ have excited civil dissensions amongst
us/ have sown the seeds of discord and mistrust in our
great family, have plotted three horrible conspiracies
against our liberty, have interrupted our trade, have
suppressed ©ur agriculture, have traduced our con
duct, and have sought to raise against us an Euro-
pian power,' by vainly imploring its aid to oppress us.
The same flag, the same language, the same reli
gion, andthe same laws, have, till now, confounded
the party of liberty, with that of tyranny ; Ferdi
nand VII. as liberator, has been opposed to Ferdi
nand VII. as oppressor ; and if we had n.>t resolved
to abandon a name, at the same time synonimous withi
crime and virtue, America would at length be en
slaved by the same force that is wielded for the inde
pendence of Spain.
Such has been the nature of the imperious impulse
of conviction, tending to open our eyes, and to impel
Venezuela eternally to separate from a name so omi
nous and so fatal. By it, placed in the irrevocable
alternative, of being the slave, or the enemy of her:
brethren, she has preferred purchasing her own free
dom, attheexpence of friendship, without obstruct
ing the means of that reconciliation she desired. ¦
Reasons the most powerfnl, interests the most sacred,
meditations the most serious, considerations the most.
profound, long discussions, contested debates, com
binations well analysed , imperious events, most ur
gent dangers, and the public opinion clearly pro
nounced and firmly sustained, have been tne pre-

146
precedido a k4 deelaracion solemne que el cinco de
Julio hizo el Congreso General de Venezuela de la
independencia absoluta de esta parte de la America
Meridional : independencia deseada y aclamada por
el pueblo de la Capital, sancionada por los Poderes
de la Confederacion, reconocida por los Represen-
tantes de las provincias, jurada y aplaudida por el
Gefe de la Iglesia Venezolana, y sostenida' con las
vidas, las fortunas, y honor de todos los ciudadanos.
; Hombres Iibres, compafieros de nuestra suerte !
Vosotros que habeis sabido purgar vuestra alma del
temor 6 la esperanza ; cc dirigid desde la elevation
" en que os colocan vuestras virtudes una mirada
"' imparcial y desinteresada sobre el quadro que
" acaba de trazaros Venezuela. Ella os constituye
" arbitros de sus diferencias con la Espaiia, y jueces
" de sus nuevos destinos. Si os han afectado nuestros
'* males, y os intresa nuestra felicidad, reunid a los
" nuestros, vuestros esfurzos, para que el prestigio
" de la ambition no triunfe mas de la liberalidad y
" la justicia. A vosotros toca el desengafio que
"" una funesta rivalidad imposibilita a la America,
" con respecto a, la Espana. Contened el vertigo
" que se ha apoderado de sus gobiernos : demostradle
" los bienes reciprocos de nuestra regeneration: des-
c: cubridle la alhaguena perspectiva que no les deja
" ver en America el monopolio que tiene metalizados
" sus corazones: decidle lo que les amenaza en
' Europa, y a lo que pueden a'spirar en un mundo
" nuevo, pacific©, sencillo, y colmado ya de todas las

147
cursors of that solemn declaration, made on the 5th
of July, by the General Congress of Venezuela,
of the absolute independence of this part of South
America ; an act, sighed for and applauded by the
people of the capital, sanctioned by the powers of the
Confederation,, acknowledged by the Representatives
of the provinces, sworn to and propitiously hailed by
the chief of the church of Venezuela, and to be
maintained with the lives, fortunes, and honours of
all the Citizens.
Free men, companions of our fate ! Ye who have
known how to divest your hearts of fear or of hope ;
direct, from the elevation on which your virtues
have placed you, an impartial and disinterested look,
on the portrait which Venezuela has just traced out
for you. She constitutes you the arbitrators of her
differences with Spain, and judges of her new desti
nies. If you have been affected by our evils, and
are interested in our felicity, unite with us your ef
forts, that the artifices of ambition may not any
longer triumph over liberality and justice. To you
belong the offices of conviction towards' Spain, which
an unfortunate rivality places beyond the reach of
America. Contain the giddiness which has seized
upon her governments ; point out to them the reci
procal benefits of our regeneration; unfold to them
the soothing prospect which they are debarred from
beholding in America, by the monopoly that has har
dened their hearts; tell them what threatens them in
Europe, and what they may.expect in the new world,
l 2

148
" bertdiciones de la libertad : yjuradle, por ultimo,
" a nuestro nombre: que Venezuela espera con los
"¦ brazos abiertos a, sus hermanos, para partir con
" ellos su felicidad ; sin otxo sacrificio que el de las
" preocupaciones, el orgullo y la ambicion, que
" han hecho infelices por tres siglos a ambas Es-
" paiias." Palacio Federal de Caracas 30
de Julio de 1811.
Juan Antonio Rodriguez Dominguez,
Presidente. Francisco Isnardy,
Secretario.

149
tranquil, uncorrnpted, and already crowned with all
the benedictions of liberty ; swear to them, in short,
in our name, that Venezuela awaits her brethren
with open arms to share her happiness with them,
without asking any other sacrifice than that of pre
judice, pride and ambition, which have, for three
ages, produced the united misery of both countries.
Federal Palace of Caracas, this
30th of July, 1811.
Juan Antonio Rodriguez Dominguez, Pres*.
Francisco Isnardy, Secy.

CONSTITUCION FEDERAL*-
PARA LOS
ESTADOS DE VENEZUELA,
Hecha por los Representantes de Margarita, de
Merida, de Cumana, de Barinas, de Barcelona,
de Truxillo, y de Caracas, reunidos en Congresq
General.
¦BjEaaJHgfl^*S.?B^aB«JMIIB3M13tfl'J I1 IWfJMUfl -'SOP
EN EL NOMBRE DE DIOS TODO PODEROSO.
NOS el Pueblo de los Estabos de Venezuela,
usando de nuestra Soberania, y deseando establecer
entre nosotros la mejor administration de justicia,
proeurar el bien general, asegurar la tranquilidad
interior, proveer en comun a la defensa exterior, sos
tener nuestra Libertad e Independencia politica,
conservar pura e ilesa la sagrada religion de nuestros

wppr

FEDERAL CONSTITUTION, FOR THE
STATES OF VENEZUELA,
Made by the Representatives for Margarita, Merida,
Uumana, VarlnOs, Barcelona, Trtixillo, and Cara
cas, in General Congress Assembled.
^ffcttH.)1, rrr rr'-

IN THE NAME- OF THE ALL POWERFUL GOD.
WE the people of the States of Venezuela, acting
from our own Sovereignty, and anxious to establish
amongst ourselves the best possible administration of
justice, to provide for the general good, to secure
the tranquillity of the interiour, t o make provision
in common for our exteriour defence, to sustain our
political liberty and independence, to preserve pure

152
mayores, asegurar perpetuamente a nuestra posteridad
el goce de estos bienes, y estrecharnos mutuamente
con la mas inalterable union, y sincera amistad, he
mos resuelto confederarnos solemnemente para formar
y establecer la siguiente Constitution, por la qual se
han de gobernar y administrar estos Estados.

PRELLMINAR.
Bases del Paclo Federativo que ha de conslituir la
Autoridad general de la Confederacion
En todo lo que por el Pacto Federal no estuviere
expresamente delegado a la Autoridad general de la
Confederacion, conservara cada una de las Provin
cias que la componen, su Soberania, Libertad, e
Independencia : en uso de elias, tendran el derecho
exclusivo de arreglar su Gobierno y Administration
territorial, baxo las leyes que crean convenientes,
con tal que no sean de las comprehendidas en esta
Constitution, oi se opongan, 6 perjudiquen a, Jos
Pactos Federativos que por ella se establecen. Del
.mismo derecho gozaran todos aquellos territorios
que por division del actual, 6 por agregacion a el,
yengan a ser parte de esta Confederation quando el
Congreso General reunido les declare la represen
tation de tales, 6 la obtengan por aquella via, y

153
and untouched,the sacred religion of our ancestors, to
secure and perpetuate to our posterity, the enjoyment
of these goods, and to mutually bind ourselves toge
ther, by the most unalterable union and sincere
friendship, HAVE resolved solemnly to confederate
together, in order to form and establish the following
constitution, by which the saiJ States are in future
to be governed and administered.

&v

PRELIMINARY.
Bases of the Federate Compact, wliicli is to constitute
the general authority of the Confederation. —
In whatever case, that by the Federal Compact, is
not expressly delegated to the general authority of the
Confederation, each one of the provinces composing
the same, shall preserve its sovereignty, liberty, and
independence; and in the exercise thereof, they shall
have the exclusive right of regulating their own
territorial government and administration, under such
laws as they shall deem fit,provided they are not such as
are comprehended in this constitution, and are not op
posed or prejudicial to the Federate Compacts,thereby
established. The same rights shall be enjoyed by all
those districts which by division of the present union,
or by posteriour aggregation thereto, shall here
after form part of this confederation, whenever
the general Congress assembled shall declare them
entitled to such representation, or they obtain the

154
forma que el establezca para las occurrencias de esta
clase quando no se halle reunido.
Hacer efectiva la mutua garantia y seguridad que
se prestan entre si los Estados, para conservar su li
bertad civil, su independencia politica, y su culto
religioso, es la primera, y la mas sagrada de las fa-
cultades de la Confederacion, en quien reside exclu-
sivamente la Representation National. Por ella esta.
encargada de las relaciones estrangeras, — de la de-
fensa comun y general de los Estados Confederados, —
de conservar la paz publica contra las commociones
internas, 6 los ataques exteriores, — de arreglar el Co
mercio exterior, y el de los Estados entre si, — de le-
vantar y mantener Exereitos, quando sean necesarios
para mantener la libertad, integridad, e indepen
dencia de la Nacion, — de construir, y equipar Baxeles
de guerra, — de celebrary concluir tratados y alianzas
con las demas Naciones, — de declararles la guerra, y
hacer la paz, — de imponer las contribution^ indis-
pensables para estos fines, u otros convenientes a, la
seguridad, tranquilidad, y felicidad comun, con ple
na y absoluta autoridad para establecer las Leyes
generales de la union, juzgar, y hacer executar
quanto por elias quede resuelto y determinado.
El exercicio de esta autoridad confiada a. la Con
federacion, no podra, jamas hallarse reunido en sus di-
versas funciones. El Poder Supremo debe estar di-
vidido en Legislativo, Executivo, y Judicial, y con-
fiado a distintos Cuerpos independientes entre si, en

155
same by that means, or form, which the latter may
establish for similar cases, when not assembled.
To render effective the mutual guarantee and secu
rity entered into by the States amongst themselves,
to preserve their civil liberty, their political indepen
dence, and their religious worship, is the first and
most sacred of the powers of the Confederation, in
whom exclusively resides, the national Representation.
By the same it is charged with all foreign relations —
with the common and general defence of the Confede
rate States — with the preservation of public peace,
from internal commotions, or exteriour attacks — the
regulating of exteriour trade and of the States
amongst themselves — the raising and maintainifig
armies, whenever they may be necessary to preserve
the liberty,integrity,and independence of the nation —
to build and equip vessels of war — to make and con
firm treaties and alliances with other nations — to de
clare war and make peace — to impose the necessary
taxes for these purposes, or to adopt other measures
that may tend to the security, tranquility, and.
common felicity, together with the full and absolute
power to enact general laws for the union, to judge,
and to cause to be fulfilled, whatever by the same
may be resolved and decreed
The exercise of this authority confided to> the Con
federation, can at no time be united in its different
functions. The Supreme power is to be divided into
Legislative, Executive, and Judicial, and confided to
distinct bodies, independent of each other, as well as

156
sus respectivas facultadps. Los individuos que fueren
nombrados para exercerlas, se sugetaran inviolable -
mente al modo, y reglas que en esta Constitucion se
les prescriben para el cumplimiento, y desempeiio de
sus destinos.

CAPITULO PRIMERO.
De la Religion.

's-

1. La Religion Catolica, Apostolica, Romana, es
tambien la del Estado, y la unica, y exclusiva de
los habitantes de Venezuela. Su protection, con
servation, pureza, e inviolabilidad sera, uno de los
primeros deberes de la Representacion national, que
no permitira jamas en todo el territorio de la Con
federacion, ningun otro culto publico, ni privado,
ni doctrina contraria a, la de Jesu-Christo.
2. Las relaciones que en consequencia del nuevo
orden politico deben entablarse entre Venezuela, y
la Silla Apostolica, , seran tambieh peculiares a la
Confederacion, como igualmente las que deban pro-
moverse con los actuales Prelados Diocesanos, mien
tras no se logre el acceso directo a la autoridad
Pontificia.

157

in their respective faculties. The persons who may
be named to exercise them, shall inviolably subject
themselves to the- manner and rules, which in this
Constitution may be prescribed to them, for the ad
ministration and fulfilment of their charges.

CH APT E R I,
OF RELIGION.
1. The Catholic, Apostolic, and Roman religion,
is also that of the State, and the only and exclusive
one of the inhabitants of Venezuela. Its protection, >
conservation, purity, and inviolability, sliall be one
of the first duties of the national Representation, who
shall not, at any time, allow within the limits of the
Confederation, any public, or private, worship or
doctrine, contrary to that of Jesus Christ.
2. The relations, which in consequence of the new
political order, are to be entered upon between Vener
zuela and the Apostolical se?,shall also be vested in the
Confederation, as well as those which may be agitated
with the present diocesan prelates, in the mean time
that direct intercourse cannot be had with the Ponti
fical authority.

15S
CAPITULO SEGUNDO.
Del Pod&r Legidalivo.
Seccion primera.
Division, h' miles, y fmicioncsde este Poder.
3. El Congrcso general de Venezuela, cstara. di-
vidido en una Camara de Representantes, y un Se-
nado, a. cuyos dos Cuerpos se confia todo el Poder
legislativo, establecido por la presente Constitucion.
4. En qualquiera de los dos podran tener principio
las leyes; y cada uno respectivamente podraproponer
al otro reparos, alteracioiies, 6 adicciones, 6 rehusar
a la ley pnopuesta, su consentimiento por una nega-
tiva absoluta.
b. Solo las leyes sobre contribuciones, tasas e im-
puestos, estan exceptuadas de esta regla. Estas no
pueden tener principio sino en la Camara de Repre
sentantes; quedando al Senado el derecho ordinario
de?adicionarlas, alterarlas, 6 rehusarlas.
6. Quando el proyecto de ley haya sido admitido
conform e a. las reglas de debate que se hay an pre-
scripto estas^ Camaras, sufrira tres discuciones en se-
aones distintas con el ii*tervaIo do un dia a lo menos
entre cada una, sin 1© qua! no podra pasarse a deli-
berar sobre el.
7. Las propdsiciones urgentcs estan exceptuadas de
estos tramites ; pero para ello debe discutirse, y de-

153
CHAP. II,
OP THE LEGISLATIVE POWER.
Ssc. 1st. — Divisions, Limits, and Functions of this
Power.
3. The General Congress of Venezuela shall be
divided into a House of Representatives,and a Senate,
to which two bodies is confided, all the legislative
power, established by the present Constitution.
4. In either of them any lawmay originate, and each
respectively may propose to the other, amendments,
alterations, or additions, or refuse its consent to the
law proposed, by an absolute negatiye.
5. The laws relating to contributions, taxes, and
imposts, are excepted from this law. These can only
originate in the house of Representatives, the ordinary
right of adding thereto, altering or refusing them,
being left to the Senate.
6. When the proposal of a law or bill has been
admitted, conformably to the rules of debate pre-,
scribed to themselves by the two Houses, it shall,
undergo three different discussions in distinct sessions,
with the interval of a day at least between each,
without which, it shall not be lawful to pass the
House. 7. Urgent bills are excepted from these forms, but
in order that this point may be established, the urgency

1(30
clararse previamente la urgencia en cada una de las
Camaras. 8. Ninguna proposicion rechazada por una de elias
podra repetirse hasta despues de un niio ; pero po-
dran hacerse otras que cOntengan parte de las re-
chazadas. 9. Ningun proyecto de ley, 6 proposicion consti-
tucionalmente aceptado, discutido, y deliberado en
arnbas Camaras, podra tenerse por Ley del Estado,
hasta que presentado al Cuerpo Executivo sea fir-
mado por el. Si no lo hiciere, enviara el proyecto
con sus reparos a, la, Camara, donde hubiere tenido
su iniciativa ; y en esta se tomara razon integra de
los reparos en el registro de sus sesiones, y se pasara
a examinar de nuevo la materia ; que resultando se-
gunda vez aprobada por ,1a pluralidad de dos terceras
partes, pasara baxo iguales tramites a, la otra Ca
mara, y obtenida en ella igual aprobacion, tendra
desde entonces el proyecto fuerza de Ley. En todos
estos casos se expresaran los votos de las Camaras por
si 6 no, quedando registrados los nombres de los que
yotaron en pro, 6 en Contra. *'
10. Si el Cuerpo Executivo no volviese el proyecto
a la Camara de su origen dentro del termino de diez
dias contados desde su recibo, con exclusion de los
feriados, tendra fuerza de Ley, y debera. ser promul-
gada como tal constitucionalmenie; pero si por em-
plazamiento, suspension, 6 receso del Congreso, no
pudiese volver a. el el proyecto antes del termino se-

161
"is to be discussed, and previously declared in eachi
of the two houses.
8. No bill rejected 'by one of them, can be re
peated till after the lapse of one year, but others may
be made containing part of those rejected.
9. No project, law, or bill, constitutionally ac
cepted, discussed, and passed in both houses, shall
be considered as a law of the State, "till it has been
"presented to the Executive body, and by'it signed.
If the latter should withhold its assent, the projected
bill with such amendments, as the Executive may
suggest, shall be returned to the house where it
originated, wherein due note shall be taken of such
amendments on the journals, they proceeding afresh
to examine the case, which if again approved by a
plurality of two thirds, the same shall, under similar
forms, pass on to the other house, wherein the same
approbation being obtained, the bill from that in
stant shall have the full force of a law. In all these
cases, the votes of the houses shall be expressed by
yea and nay, and a register kept of the names of those
who voted for or against the bill.
10. If the Executive should not return the bill to ,
the house whence it originated, in the term of ten
days after its receipt, exclusive of holidays, the same
shall have the full force of law, and shall be constitu
tionally promulgated as such ; but if in consequence
of summons, suspension, or recess of Congress, the
bill cannot have been returned before the period
fixed, it shall remain without effect, unless the Execa-
M

162
nalado, quedara sin efecto, a menos que el PodeT
Executivo no resuelva aprobarlo sin reparos, 6 adi-
ciones ; pero en caso de ponerlas, podra presentarse
el proyecto con elias a. las Camaras en la inmediata
Asamblea siguiente a la expiracion del plazo.
It. Las demas resoluciones, decretos, dictamenes,
y actas de las Camaras (excepto las de emplaza-
miento) deberan tambien pasarse al Poder Executivo
para su conformidad antes de tener efecto. En el
caso de que este no se conforme, volveran a seguir
los tramites preseriptos para las leyes ;• y siendo de
nuevo confirmados como elias, deberan llevarse a
execucion. Las leyes, decretos, dictamenes, actas,
y resoluciones urgentes estan tambien sujetas a esta
regla ; pero el Poder Executivo debe poner sus re
paros sobre la urgencia y sobre lo substantial de la
misma ley siraultaneamente dentro de dos dias des
pues de su recibo, y no haciendolo se tendran com©
aprobadas por el.
12. La formula de redaction con que han de pasar
las leyes, actos, decretos y resoluciones de una a. otra
Camara, y al Poder Executivo, sera un preambulo
que contenga : el dia de la sesion en que se discutio
en cada Camara la materia : la fecha de las respec-
tivas resoluciones, inclusa la de urgencia quando la
haya; y la exposicion de las razones y fundamentos
que han motivado le resolucion. Quando se omita
algunos de estos requisitos, debera volverse el acto

163
tive Power shall resolve on approving the same, with
out any alterations or additions, but in case these
should be added, the bill, together with the additions
thereto, shall be laid before the houses, in the next
session subsequent to the period expired.
11. All other resolutions, decrees, opinions, and
acts of both houses, (excepting those of summons)
shall likewise be refered.t© the Executive Power in
order to receive its assent, before they can be carried
into full effect. In case the latter should refuse such
assent, they shall again pass through the forms pre
scribed for the enaction of laws, and being in like
manner newly confirmed, they are to be carried into
execution. The laws, decrees, opinions, acts, and
resolutions, which may be held as urgent, are also to
be subject to this rule, but the Executive Power is
in this case, to state its objections respecting the
urgency, as well as the substance of any law,
within the space of two days after its receipt, in de
fault of which, the same shall be considered as ap
proved by it.
\2. The form of the draft or sketch under which
the laws, acts, decrees and resolutions are to passx
from one house to the other, as well as to the Exe
cutive, shall be a preamble therein contained, with
a minute of the day of the session on which the sub
ject was discussed in each house, the date of the
respective resolutions, a statement of the urgency in
case there is any, as. well as an exposition of the rea
sons and foundations which have given rise to the
u2

164
dentro de dos dias a la Camara donde se note la omi^*
sion, 6 a, la del origen si hubiere ocurrido en ambas.
13. Estos requisitos no acompafiaran a. la ley en
su promulgation: ella saldra. entonces redactada
elara, sencilla, precisa y uniformemente, sin otra
cosa que un membrete que explique su contenido con
la nominacion de ley, acto, 6 decreto, y lo dispositiv©
do. la misma ley, baxo la formula de estilo siguiente :
El Senado, y la Camara de Representantes de los Es-
tados-Unidos de Venezuela, juntos en Congreso decre-
taron : y en seguida la parte dispositiva de la ley,
acto, 6 decreto. Estas formulas podran variarse si
las circumstancias y la conformidad de los pueblos
que se agreguen a esta confederacion,, lo creyesen
necesario.

SECCION SEGUNDif.
Eleccion de da Camara de Representantes.
14. Los que compongan la Camara de Represen
tantes deben ser nombrados por los electores popu-
lares de cada Provincia para servir por quatro alios
este encargo; y el numero total respectivo se reno-
vara. cada dos por mitad, sin qne ninguno de ellos
pueda ser reelegido inmediataraente.

165
resolution. Whenever any of these requisites are
omitted, the act shall be returned within two days
to the house wherein the omission has been noted,
or to that where the same originated, if it has oc
curred in both.
13. These requisites shall not accompany the law
in its promulgation, it shall then be drawn out in
a clear, simple, precise and uniform manner, with-*
out any thing more than a plain heading, explanatory
of its contents, with the name of the law, act, or de
cree, the dispositive part of the same law being pre
ceded by the following words, "m The Senate and
House of Representatives of the United States of
Venezuela, in Congress assembled, have decreed, &;c"
then is to follow the decretive part of the same.
These forms can be varied, if circumstances and the
assent of the provinces that may hereafter be annexed
to this confederation, should make it requisite.

SECTION II.
Election of the House of Representatives.
14. Those who compose the House of Represen
tatives, are to be named by the popular electors of
each province, to serve in this charge during the
space of four years ; and the total number respective
ly, shall be renewed every two years, in the propor
tion of one half, without any being allowed to be re
elected immediately,

166
15. Nadie podra ser elegi do antes de la edad de
veinticinco alios : si no ha sido por cinco inmediata-
mente ante! de la eleccion ciudadano de la Confede
racion de Venezuela; y si no goza en ella una pro-
priedad de qualquiera clase.
16. La condicion de domicilio y residencia reqiie-
rida aqui para los Representantes, no excluye a, los
que hayan estado ausentes en servicio del Estado, ni
a, los que hayan permanecido fuera de el con per-
miso del Gobierno en asuntos propios, con tal que su
ausencia no haya pasado de tres anos ; ni a los natu
rales del territorio de Venezuela, que habiendo es
tado fuera de el, se hnbiesen restituido y hallado pre-
s:ntes a la declaratoria de su absoluta Independencia,
y la hubiesen reconocido y jurado.
17. La poblacion de las Provincias sera la que de
termine el numero de los Representantes que les cor-
responda, en razon de uno por cada veinte mil almas
de todas condiciones, sex&s y edades. Por ahora ser-
vira, para el computo el censo civil practicado ulti-
mamente, que en lo sucesivo se renovara. cada cinco
anos ; y si hechas las divisiones de veinte mil, resul-
tare algun residuo que pase de diez mil, habra por
el un Representante mas.
18. Esta proportion de uno por veinte mil, con-
tinuara siendo la regla de la representacion, hasta
que el numero de los Representantes llegue a sesenta ;
-y aunque se aumentase la poblacion, no se aumentara
por eso el numero, sino se elevara la proporcion hasta

167
15. No one can be elected under the age df 25,
and if he has not been for five years immediately pre
vious to his election, a citizen of the Confederation
of Venezuela, nor unless he enjoys property of some
nature therein.
16. The requisite of previous residence above re
quired for the Representatives, does not exclude those
who may have been absent in the service of the State,
nor those who may have been abroad under permission
of the government, on their own affairs, if their ab
sence has not exceeded three years, nor the natives of
Venezuela, who having been out of the country be
fore, had returned, and were present at the declara
tion of absolute independence, and have acknow
ledged and sworn to the same,
17. The population of the provinces shall deter
mine the number of the Representatives belonging to
each, at the rate of one for each twenty thousand
souls of all classes, sexes, and ages. For the present,
the civil census lately made, shall serve for the cal
culation, but in future, the same shall be renewed
every five years, and if after the divisions of twenty
thousand have been made, there should result any re
sidue exceeding ten thousand, a Representative shall
be elected for the same.
18. This proportion of one for every twenty thou
sand, shall remain as the law for, the representation,
till the number of the Representatives reaches seven
ty, when notwithstanding the population may have
increased, the number shall nevertheless not be en-

168
que cosrreponda un Representante a. cada treinta mil
almas. En este estado coutinuara la proporcion de
uno por treinta mil, hasta que lleguen a ciento los
Representantes ; y entonces como en el casa anterior,
se elevara la proporcion a. qiiarenta mil por uno,
hasta que lleguen a. docientos por el aumento pro-
gresivo de la poblacion, en cuyo caso se procedera de
modo que la regla de proporcion no suba de uno por
tincqenta mil almas.
19. Quando por muerte, renuncia, u otra causa
vacare alguna plaza de Representante, entrara, a,
servirla el que en las ultimas elecciones hubiese ob-
tenido la segunda mayoria de votos, y se considerara
nombrado por el tiempo que falte al primero. Si
este fuese menos de un aiio, no se le contara com©
obstaculo para poder ser elegido en las inmediatas
elecciones. 20. Esfas se executaran con uniformidad en tod©
el territorio de la Confederacion, procediendo para
ello debmo'do siguiente :
21. El dia primero de Noviembre de cada dos anos,
se reuniran Ips sufragantes en todas las parroquias del
Estado, para elegir lijbre y espontaneamente los elec-
tores parroquiajes que han de nombrar el Repre
sentante 6 Representantes que correspondan aquel
biennio a su Provincia.

169
larked, but the proportion shall be raised, till a
Representative shall be found to correspond to each
thirty thousand souls. In this state is the proportion
of one for every thirty thousand to continue, till the
number of Representatives reaches one hundred, and
then as in the former case, the proportion shall be
raised to forty thousand for one, till the number, by
the progressive increase of population, has reached
two hundred, in which case it shall be regulated in
such manner, that the rule of proportion does not
give more than one for each fifty thousand souls.
19. When, in consequence of death, resignation,
or any other cause, the seat of a Representative shall
be vacated, it shall be filled by the person who in
the last election had obtained the second majority of
votes, and he shall be considered as elected to serve
during all the time that remained for the first, and
if he should have served less than a year, it shall not
be held as an obstacle to his obtaining a seat at the
next election.
20. The elections shall be conducted with the
same uniformity throughout the whole -territory of
the Confederation, and in the following manner.
21. The first day of November of every two years,
the voters shall collect in all the parishes ©f the State,
in order to choose freely and voluntarily the parochial
electors, who are to name the Representative or Re
presentatives, which for the next two succeeding
years, correspond to the province.

170
22. A cada mil almas de poblacion, y a cada Par-
roqnia, aunque no llpgue a, este numero, se dara, un
elector; luego que esten nombrados se disolvera la
Congregation parroquial : y los Electoros se hallaran
reunidos indefectiblemente el quince de Noviembre
en la Ciudad 6 Villa que fuere cabeza del Partido
capitular, para nombrar los Representantes.

23. El resultado de la Congregacion electoral, se
remitira por ahora inmediatamente al Gobierno pro
vincial ; y quando este se reforme popularmente, al
Presidente del Senado, 6 primera Camara del Cuerpo
legislativo de ella, que en todas debera. liallarse re-
unido en los primeros dias de Diciembre.

24. El Gefe del Gobierno actual, 6 el Presidente
del Senado quando lo haya, abrira, a, presencia de la
Legislatura provincial que se hallara. reunida, las
votaciones que se remitan de los: Partidos para contar
los yotos. Se tendran por elegidos para Repre
sentantes los que hayan reunido a, su favor la mayoria
del numero total de los Electores nombrados ; . y en
caso de igualdad de mayoria entre dos 6 mas per^
sonas, elegira. entre ellos la Legislatura; pero si
ninguna llegase a. reunir la mitad, la Legislatura
entonces escogera de los que hayan tenido mas votos,
un numero triple, 6 doble si fuere preciso de los Re
presentantes que toquen a. su Provincia, para elegir

in
22. Each thousand souls, or each parish, notwith
standing it does not reach that amount of population,
^hall have one elector, and the nomination of these
being effected, the parochial meeting shall be dis
solved, and the electors shall without fail, be col
lected on the 15th of November, in the city or chief
town of the district, in order there to name, the Re
presentatives. 23. The results of the electoral meetings shall be
immediately referred, for the present, t© the Provin
cial government, and when this is popularly re
formed, to the President of the Senate, or of the first
House of the Legislative body of the same, which in
every province is to be in session at the beginning of
December. 24. The chief of the present government, or the
President of the Senate, when this- is established,
shall open in the presence of the Provincial legislature
for that purpose assembled, the results of the polls
which may have been forwarded from the districts,
in order to count the votes. Those shall be con
sidered as elected to serve as Representatives; who
may have united in themselves the greatest number
of the electors chosen, and in case the majorities
should be equal between two or more persons, the
legislature shall choose between them ; but if n© one
should be found to haye received half of the votes,
the legislature shall then choose amongst those who
may have the greatest number, a third or double
quantity of Representatives more than necessary to

172
entre estos l©s que deban serlo. Para esta eleccion
podra, atenderse a qualquiera especie de mayoria^
ariadiendo a los votos de la Legislatura los que cada
uno hubiese obtenido desde las Congregaciones
electorales de las cabezas de partido. En caso de
jgualdad en la ultima eleccion de la Legislatura, de^
cidira el voto del Presidente.
25. Mientras no se organizan constitutional y uni-
formemente las Legislaturas de las Provincias, po-
dran hacer sus Gobiernos actuales lo prevenido an-
teriormente, juntandose en un lugar determinado
todos sus miembros en union de las Municipalidades
de la Capital, y doce personas de arraig© conocido
elegidas previamente por las mismas Municipalidades.
26. Todo hombre libre tendra derecho de sufragio
en las Congregaciones Parroquiales, si a. esta calidad
anade la de ser Ciudadano de Venezuela, residente
en la Parroquia 6 Pueblo donde sufraga : si fuere
mayor de veintiun anos, siendo soltero, 6 menor
fiend© casado, y velado, y si poseyere un caudal
libre del valor de seiscientos pesos en las Capitales de
Provincia siendo soltero, y de quatrocientos siendo
casado, aunque pertenezcan a, la muger, 6 de qua
trocientos en las demas poblaciones en el primer caso,
y"docientos en el segundo: 6 si tubiere grado, ii
aprobacion publica en una ciencia, 6 arte liberal, 6
mecanica : 6 si fuere propietario, o arrendador de
tierras, para sementeras, 6 ganado con tal que sus

173
serve for the province, in order again to mafeg
amongst them the definitive choice. For this electioa
any kind of majority may suffice, by adding to the
votes of the Legislature those which each may have
obtained from the electoral meetings of the chief
towns. In case of a parity of votes in the definitive
election of the Legislature, the vote of the President
shall decide.
25. In the mean time that the Legislatures of the'
provinces are not organized constitutionally and with
uniformity, their present governments are t© proceed
in the regulations above specified, by assembling iii
a place determined ; all their members in union with
those of the municipalities of the capital, and twelve
persons of known property, previously elected by the
said municipalities,
26. Every free man shall have the right of voting
in the parochial meetings, if to this quality he
adds that of being a citizen of Venezuela, and resi- '
_ dent in the parish or town where he Votes : further,
if he is aged 21 years and unmarrried, and if mar
ried and settled, even if he should be under that age,
and possessed of a free property to the value ©f six
hundred dollars in the chief towns of the province
when unmarried, and of four hundred dollars mar
ried, although the same belongs to the wife, or of
four hundred in the other towns in the first case, and
two hundred in the second. Also if he holds any
office or public testimony of the exercise of any
science, or liberal and mechanic art, or if he is the

174
productos sean los asigriados para los respectivos
casos de soltero, u casado.

27. Seran excluidos de este derecho los1 dementes,
los sordomudos, los fallidos, los deudores a caudales
publicos con plazo cumplido, los estrangeros, los
transeuntes, los vagos publicos y rtotorios, los que
hayan sufrido infamia no purgada por la Ley, los que
tengan causa criminal de gravedad abierta, y los que
siendo casados no vivan coil sus mugeres, sin motivb
legral. 28. Ademas de las qualidades referidas para I09
sufragantes parroquiales, deben los que han de tener
voto en las Congregaciones electorales, ser vecinos
del partido Capitular donde votaren, y poseer una
propiedad libre de seis mil pesos en la Capital de
Caracas, siendo solteros, y de quatro mil siendo ca
sados, cuya propiedad sera, en las demas Capitales,
Ciudades, y Villas, de quatro mil siendo soltero, y
tres mil siendo casado.
29. Tambien se conceden los mismos derechos a
los Empleados publicos con sueldo del Estado, con
tal que este sea de trecientos pesos anuales para votar
en las Congregaciones parroquiales, y de mil para
los Electores capitulates. Pero todos ellos estan in-
habiles para ser miembros de las Camaras de Repre
sentantes, y senadores mientras no renuncien al exer-

175
Owner of, or renter of seed.lands, or cattle, provided*'
the produce amounts to the respective sums stipulated
for married and single persons.
27. Those excluded from this right, are the lu
natic, deaf and dumb, bankrupts, debtors to pub
lic property after the expiration of the periods fixed
for payment, foreigners, persons without fixed resi
dence, public and notorious vagrants, persons who
may have been subject to any infamy notwiped away
by law, those under criminal prosecution, and mar
ried persons not cohabiting with their wives without
legal motives.
28. Besides the above stated qualities requisite for
the parish voters, those who are entitled to vote in
the electoral meetings, are to be residents of the dis
trict where they give suffrage, and to possess a free
property to the value of six thousand dollars in the
capital of Caracas, if unmarried ; and of four thou
sand if married, which amount of property in the
other capitals, cities and towns, shall be four thou
sand for unmarried persons, and three thousand for
those married.
29. The same rights are also granted to public
' functionaries enjoying salaries from the State, pro
vided these are equal to three hundred dollars per
year; all such shall vote in the parochial meetings,
and in the electoral ones, if their salaries reach one
thousand. All such are nevertheless disqualified
from -being members of the Houses of Representa
tives and Senate, as long as they retain the exercise

176
«itio de sus empleos, y al goce de sus respective*
sueldos por todo el tiempo que dure la representacion.
30: Es un derecho exclusivo y propio de las re-
spectivas Municipalidades, el convocar conforme a
la Constitucion las Asambleas primarias y electorales,
y todas las demas que resolviere el Gobierno de su
Provincia. 31. Qualquiera de sus miembros, 6 de los Jueces,
y personas notables de los Pueblos de su distrito po:
dran ser autorizados por elias presidir y concluir las
Asambleas parroquiales ; pero las Electorales las
presidira uno de los Alcaldes, y las autorizara, el
Escrivano municipal.
32. Si hubiese por parte de las Municipalidades
omision en hacer oportUnamente estas convocatorias,
podran los Ciudadanos reunirse espontaneamente en
los dias sefialadoS por la Constitution para elias, y
hacer con orden, tranquilidad, y moderation lo que
no hubiese hecho el Cuerpo Municipal, hasta comu-
nicar despues de disueltas las Congregaciones, el re-
sultado al Gobierno Provincial respectivo.
33. El Uso de esta facultad, tanto por parte de las
Municipalidades, Como de los Ciudadanos, fuera de
los.casos y tiemposprevenidos en esta Constitucion,
sera, un atentado contra la seguridad publica, y una
traicion a las leyes del Estado ; y nuhca pasaran las
funciones de estas Congregaciones del nombramiento
deElectores, 6 Representantes del Congreso General,
6 Legislatura Provincial respectiVa, sin tratar en

177
©f their functions, and enjoy their respective salarie*
during the time of their representation.
30. It is the exclusive and sole right of the respec
tive municipalities to convene, in conformity to the
constitution, primary and electoral meetings, andall
others which may be resolved on by the government
of each province.
31. Any one of its members, a judge, or a distin
guished personage in the towns, can by them be
¦authorized to preside in, and to close the parochial
meetings, but electoial meetings shall be presided by
a justice of the peace, and the acts thereof shall be
legalized by the municipal notary.
32. Ifthere should be any omission on the part of
the muncipalities, to convene these meetings in due
time, the citizens can, in that case, assemble on the
days assigned by the constitution for that purpose,
and do what the municipality has not done ; but with
Order, tranquility and moderation ; they are more
over authorized to communicate the results of the
meetings after their dissolution, to the respective
Provincial governments.
33- The use of this faculty, as well on the part of
the Municipalities, as on that of the citizens, except
ing in the cases and times fixed by the constitution,
shall be held as* a transgression against the public
security, and a treason against the laws of the State ;
nor shall the functions of these meetings exceed the
nomination of electors, that of Representatives to the
General Congress, or to the respective provincial Le-
a

178
manera alguna de otra cosa que no prevenga la Con
stitution,

34. Las calificaciones de propiedad seran pecu
liares a las respectivas Municipalidades que llevaran
permanentemente un registro civil de los Ciudadanos
aptos para votar en las Congregaciones parroquiales,
y electorales de su partido, en la forma que estab-
leciere la respectiva Constitucion Provincial,

35. La falta actual que hay del registro civil or-
denado por el articulo anterior para establecer las
calificaciones de los Ciudadanos, podra suplirse au-
torizando los Cabildosa. los mismos quenombren para
presidir las Asambleas primaries, 6 parroquiales para
formar un censo en cada Parroquia con vista del
ultimo formado para el actual Congreso, y del
Eclesiastico autorizado por el Cura, 6 su Teniente,
y quatro vecinos honrados, padres de familia, y pro-
pietarios del Pueblo, que baxo juramento testifiquen
tener los comprehendidos en el censo las calidades
requeridas para ser sufragantes, 6 electores.

36. Obtenida por este medio la poblacion total de
la Parroquia, se sabra, el Elector, 6 Electores que
le correspondan, y se formara una lista por ella de
los Ciudadanos que resulten con derecho a sufragio,

179
gislature, nor shall they be allowed to transact. any-
Other business that is not assigned them by the Cona
stitution. 34. The qualifications of property shall be left iii
charge of the respective Municipalities, wh© shall at
all times keep a civil register of the Citizens autho
rized t© vote in the parochial meetings, as well ag
of those capable of being returned as electors for the
district, under the form that may be established by
the respective Provincial Constitutions.
35. The want at present experienced of a civil Re
gister ordained by the above article, in order to
establish the qualifications of the citizens, may be
supplied by an authority conferred by the municipal
bodies on those they may name to preside in the
primary or parochial meetings, establishing a census
in each parish founded on the late one drawn up for
the present Congress, or it may be done by the Ec
clesiastical body authorized by the Curate or his de
puty, together with four respectable citizens, house
keepers, and landholders in the same town, who
under oath, shall testify that those comprehended in
the list, possess the qualities requisite for voters, of
for electors.
36. The total population of the parish being by
this means established, the number of electors that
may correspond to the same will be ascertained; a list
is also to be made out ofthe citizens found therein
with the right of vote, as well as another of those
n 2

ISO
y otra de los que esten habiles para ser Electores en
la Congregation capitular.
37.' Estas tres listas se llevaran por el comisionado
a la Asamblea primaria 6 parroquial, para que los
sufragantes con conocimiento de ella precedan 4
nombrar de los de la ultima lista el Elector, 6 Elec
tores que correspondan a, aquella Parroquia.
SS. Verificado esto se presentara, todo ello por el
comisionado al Cuerpo Municipal del partido, para
que sirva a formar el registro civil provisional,
mientras por el Congreso no se establezca otra
formula. 39. El acto de eleccion parroquial y electoral
sera, publico, como es propio de un Pueblo libre y
virtuoso, y en el se ppocedera, del modo siguiente.
40. Los Electores primaries, 6 sufragantes parro
quiales llevaran sus votos en persona por escrito, 6
de palabra al Alcalde de quartel, 6 Juez que se nom-
brare dentro del termino de ocho dias, desde aquel
en oue se abriese la eleccion ; y en el primero de
Noviembre se procedera al escrutinio ante el mismo
Juez con seis personas respetables de la Parroquia,
a cuyas puertas se fixara la votacion, ysu resultado,
4.1. En las Congregaciones electorales dara su
vote cada Elector en un billete firmado, 6 en secreto
a la voz al Presidente de la Congregation que lo hara
escribir en cl acto por el Secretario a presencia de dos
testigos. Reunidos los votos en secreto, se prac-

181
who may be qualified to serve as electors at the
meetings held for that purpose.
37. These three lists are to be carried by the com
missioner to the primary or parochial meetings, that
the voters in conformity thereto, may proceed to
name out of the last list the elector or electors corres
ponding to that parish.
3tf. This being done, the whole shall be laid be
fore the Municipal body by the commissioner, that
the same may serve to form a provincial civil Re=-
gister, in the mean time, and till Congress shall
establish another form.
39. The parochial and electoral elections shall be
public, as becomes a free and virtuous people, and
conducted in the following manner.
40. The primary electors or parish voters shall
carry their written or verbal votes in person to the
magistrate of the district, or to the judge who may be
named within the term of eight days from that on
which the polling is opened, and on tlie first of No
vember the votes shall be added up in presence of the
said judge, and six respectable persons of the parish,
and a statement of the votes and results be fixed on
the doors of the parish church.
41. In the electoral meetings each elector shall
give his vote on a signed ticket or verbally to the
President of the meeting, who shall cau»e the lame
to be entered down on the list by the Secretary, in
presence of two witnesses. The votes being thus
privately collected, the additions thereof sha^l b$

182
ticara. en publico el escrutinio, formando lista por
orden alfabetico, y se leeran luego en voz alta los
yotos con el nombre de cada Elector.
42. Las dudas, 6 dificultades que se susciten en
las Asambleas primarias u electorales sobre quali-
dades 6 formas, se decidiran en las primeras por el
Presidente y sus asociados, y en las segundas por la
misma Congregacion ; pero de ambas podra apelarse
en ultimo recurso a. la Legislatura provincial, sin
que entre tanto se suspenda por eso el efecto de la
eleccion respectiva.
43. La Camara de Representantes al principiar sus
Sesiones elegira, para el tiempo que duraren estas, un
Presidente y Vice-Presidente de sus miembros que
podra, mudar en caso de prorroga, 6 convocation
extraordinaria ; tambien nombrara fuera de su seno
el Secretario, y demas Oficiales que juzgue necesarios
para el desempeiio de sus trabajos, siendo de su au
toridad la asignacion de sueldos, 6 gratifications de
los referidos empleados.
44. Todos los empleados dela Confederacion estan
sujetos a. la inspection de la Camara de Represen
tantes en el desempeiio de sus funciones, y por ella
serjin acusados ante el Senado de todos los casos de
traitioh, colusion, 6 malversation, y este admitira,
oira, rechazara, yjuzgara, estas acusaciones, sin que
puedan someterse a su juicio por otro organo que el

183
made in public, and a list in alphabetical order
made out, ' when the votes shall be read aloud, with
the names of each elector
42. The doubts or difficulties that may arise in the
primary or electoral meetings respecting qualifi
cations or forms, in the first shall be decided by the
president and his associate judges, and iu the second
by the meeting itself; but from both there can be a
definitive appeal to the provincial Legislature, with
out in the mean time, the effect of the respective
elections being suspended.
43. The House of Representatives ©n opening
the session shall elect for the time of its duration,
a president and vice-president out of its own mem
bers, who can be changed in case of prorogation or
extraordinary summons : it shall also name out of
the house a secretary and the other officers it may
judge necessary to perform the various duties; it
being in like manner authorized to fix the salaries
and emoluments which the said functionaries are to
receive. 44. All persons employed under the Confederation
are subject to the inspection of the House of Repre
sentatives in the discharge of their duties, and by the
same they are to be accused before the Senate in all
cases of treason, collusion, or malversation; and the
latter shall admit, hear, examine and judge such
accusations, without their being able to be submitted
to their judgment through any other organ than

de la " Camara, a quien tpca exclusivamente este
derecho.

3ECCION TERCEBA
*. - ¦ V
Eleccion de los Scnadores.
45. El Senado de la Confederation lo compondra
por ahora un numero de individuos, cUya proportion
no pasara de la tercera, ni sera menos de la quinta
parte del numero de los Representantes: quando
estos pasen de ciento, estar ji la proporcion de aquellos
entre la quarta, y la quinta : y quando de docientos,
entre la quinta, y la scxta.
46. Este calculo indica al presente que debe haber
de cada Provincia un Senador por cada seten'a mil
almas de todas condiciones, sexos, y edades con
arreglo a, los censos que rigen ; pero sjempre nom
brara uno la que no llegue al numero s. fialado, y otro
la que deducida la quota 6 quotas de setenta mil,
tenga un residue de treinta mil almas,
47. El termino de las ^unciones de Senador sera, el
de seis anos, y cada dos se renovara el Ciicrpo por
terceras partes, siendo los primeros a quienes toque
este turno a los dos anos de la primera reunion, los de
las Provincias que hubieren dado mayor numero, y
asi sucesivamente, de mOdo que ninguno pase de lo«
seis alios asignados. t"

185
that of the said House, to whom exclusively this
right belongs. SECTIOM III
Election of Senators.
45. The Senate pf the Confederation shall, for the
present, be composed of a number of individuals,
whose proportion shall not exceed a third, and shall
not be less than a fifth part of the number of Repre
sentatives; that is, when the latter exceed one hun
dred, their proportion shall then be between the
fourth and fifth part, and when two hundred, between
that of a fifth and sixth.
46. This calculation at present indicates, that for
each province there is to be one Senator ibr every
twenty thousand souls of all conditions, classes and
ages, according to the census of the country now in
force; but each province shall nevertheless name
one, ajrhough its population does not reach the
amount spi-cined ; as well as the others, which after
deducting the quota or quotas of seventy thousand,
may have Jeft a residuum of thirty thousand souls.
47. The time limited for the functions of a Senator
shall be six years, and every two years the body shall
be renewed, in the proportion of two thirds ; this
change devolving in the first instance, on those pro
vinces which may -have sent up the greatest number,
and thus successively, in such manner that none ex
ceed the six years to which they are limited.

186
48. La eleccion ©riginaria y sucesiva en los alios
de turno, se hara por la Legislatura prov'^viai, segun
la forma que elias se prescriban ; pero con las con
diciones de que :
49. Para ser Senador ha de tener el elegido treinta
aiios de edad : diez anos de ciudanano avecindado en
el territorio de Venezuela inmediatamente antes de la
election con las excepciones compreIicr:_Ida=i en el
paragrafo diesyseis, y ha de gozcr en el una propie
dad de seis mil pesos.
50. El Senado ele.-ira fuera de su sen© un Secre-
tario, y los deu^s Oficiales y empleados que necesite,
siendo privativa al mismo Cuerpo la asignacion de
sueldos, acensos, y gratificaci©nes de estos empleados,
y tambien un Presidente y Vice, como previene el
parrafo 43 para los Representantes.
51. Quando vacare alguna plaza de Senador por
muerte, renuncia, u otra causa durante el receso de
la Legislatura provincial a que corresponda la va-
cante, el Poder Executivo de ella podra nombrar
interinamcnte quien la sirva hasta la proxima reunion
de la Legislatura, en que habia de proveerse en
propiedad. SECCION QUARTA.
Funcioiies y facultades del-Senado.
52. El Senado tiene todo el poder natural, e inci-
dente de una Corte de Justicia para admitir, oir,

187
48. The first election, and those which may be
made in the successive years in rotation, shall be
conducted by the provincial Legislature, in the man
ner which they themselves may prescribe, but with
the following conditions.
49. The Senator elect shall be aged thirty years,
have been ten years a citizen and resident in the terri
tory of Venezuela immediately preceding his elec
tion, with the exception stated in article 16, and
he shall possess therein a clear property worth six
thousand dollars.
50. The Senate shall elect out of the House a
Secretary, and the other functionaries required, and
shall be allowed to assign salaries, advancement,
and emoluments for them, as well as a President and
Vice president, as stated in article 43, for the house
of Representatives.
51; When by death, resignation, or any other
cause, the place of a Senator should be vacated, and
this during the recess of the provincial Legislature
to whom it belongs to fill up the vacancy, the Exe
cutive power of the same, shall be authorized to
name a temporary substitute to serve till the next
meeting of the Legislature, when a fresh member
shall be provided. SECTION IV.
Functions and faculties of the Senate.
52. The Senate has all the natural and incidental
power belonging to a Court of Justice, to admit.

188
juzgar, y sentenciar a. qualesquiera de los emplea
dos principales en servicio de la Confederacion, acu-
sados por la Camara de Representantes de felonia,
mala conducta, usurpacion 6 corrupcion en el uso
de sus funciones, arreglandose a la evidencia, y a la
justicia en estos procedimientos, y prestando para ello
un juramento especial sobre los Evangelios antes de
empezar la actuation.
53. Tambien podra juzgar, y sentenciar a qual-
quiera otro de los empleados inferiores, quando
instruido de sus faltas, 6 delitos advierta omision en
sus respectivos Gefes para hacerlo, precediendo siem
pre la acusacion de la Camara.
54. Inmediatamente pasara al acusado copia legal
de la acusacioii, y le senalara tiempo, y lugar para
evaquar el juicio, sirviendose para esto del Ministro,
6 comisionado que tenga a, bien elegir, y teniendo
consideration a la distancia en que resida el acusado,
y a la naturaleza del juicio que va a sufrir.
55. Luego que haya tenido su efecto la citacion,
y emplazamiento del Senado compareciendo en fuezra
de ella el acusado, se le oiran libremente las pruebas
y testigos que presentare, y la defensa que hiciere
por si, 6 por Letrado ; pero si por renuencia, u
omision dexare de comparecer, examinara el Senado
los cargos, y pruebas, que haya contra el, y pro-
nunciara. un juicio tan valido y efectivo, como si el

189
h&a.Ti judge, and sentence any of the, principal
functionaries in the service of the Confederation, who
may have been accused by the House of Representa
tives, of felony, misbehaviour, usurpation or cor
ruption in the use of their functions, abiding therein
by the evidence produced, and according to justice in
such proceedings, having previously taken a special
oath on the holy Evangels before the case is opened,
53. The Senate has also power to judge and sen
tence any other of the inferior functionaries, when
having taken cognizance of their defaults o*r crimes,
there has been noted any omission on the part of their
chiefs to do it, but the accusation must, in the first
instance, proceed from the lower House.
54. They shall immediately transmit legal copy
of the indictment to the accused, fixing a period and
place for his appearance and to make answer ; such
minister or commissioner being used for this purpose,
as the House may judge pToper, and consideration
being also had to the distance at which the accused
may reside, and the nature of the judgment he is
about to undergo.
55. As soon as the citation and summons of the
Senate to the accused have been made, and he has by
virtue thereof appeared, the witnesses he may bring
forward shall be freely heard, and the proofs ex
amined, as well as the defence he may make, either
personally or by council ; but if by default or
omission he should fail to appear, the Senate shall
then proceed to examine the charges and proofs there

190
acusado hubiese comparecido, y respuesto a 1*
acusacion. 56. En estos juicios, si no hubiese Letrado en el
Cuerpo del Senado, debera este citar para que dirija
el juicio, a alguno de los Ministros de la Alta Corte
de Justicia, u a otro Letrado de credito que merezca
su confianza, a. los quales solo se concedera. voto con-
sultivo en la materia.
57. Para que pueden tener efecto, y validation,
las sentencias pronunciadas por el Senado en estos
juicios, han de concurrir precisamente k elias las
dos terceras partes de los votos de los Senadores que
se hallaren presentes en el numero necesario para
formar sesion constitucionalmente.
58. Estas sentencias no tendran otro efecto que el
de deponer al acusado de su empleo, en fuerza de la
Verdad conocida por averiguacion previa, declaran-
dolo incapaz de obtener cargo honorifico, 6 lucrafivo
en la Confederacion, sin que esto lo releve de ser ul-
teriormente perseguido, juzgado, y sentenciado por
los competentes Tribunales de Justicia.
SECCION QCINTA.
Funciones econdmicas, y prerogatiias comunes et
ambas Camaras
59. La calificacion de elecciones, calidades, y
admision de sus respectivos miembros, sera, del resorte

191
may be against him, and sliall pronounce judgment
as valid and effective, as if the accused had appeared
and answered to his indictment.
56. In these cases, if there is no counsellor in the
body of the Senate, the latter is in that case to call in
one of the members of the high Court of Justice to
direct the proceedings, or any other counsellor of
respectability, who may possess their confidence, but
to any such in the matter, a consultive voice only is to
be granted.
57. In order that judgments pronounced by the
Senate in such cases should have their due effect and
validity, there shall necessarily be a concurrence of
two third parts of the votes of the Senators, of whom
there shall be present a sufficient number to render the
session constitutional.
58. These judgments shall have no other effect
than to deprive the accused of his place, in conse
quence of the facts that may be established by the
examination, declaring him incapable of again re
ceiving any honourable or lucrative charge under the
Confederation ; but without this exempting him
from being ulteriorly prosecuted, judged and sen
tenced by the competent courts of justice.
SECTION V.
Economical and prerogative functions common to
both Houses.
59. The qualifications for elections, the requisites,
and admission of their respective members, shall

I9£
^privativo de cada Camara, como igualrhente la reso
lution de las dudas que sobre esto puedan ocurrir^
Del mismo modo podran fixar el numero constitu
tional para lay sesiones, que nunca pndra. ser menos
de las dos terceras partes ; y en todo caso el numero ,
existente, aunque sea menor, podra. compeler a. los
que falten a. reunirse baxo las penas que elias
establecieren. 60. El Presidente de cada una de las Camaras
sera siempre el conducto por donde sc verifiquen
tanto estas medidas coactivas, como las demas con
vocations extraordinarias que constitutional mente
exijan las circunstancias.
61. EI proceder de cada Camara en sus sesiones,-
debates, y del iberaciones, sera, establecido por elias
' mismas, y baxo estas reglas podra, castigar a, qual-
, quiera de sus miembros que las infrija, 6 que de
otra manera se haga culpable con las penas que
establezca, hasta cxpelerlos de su seno, quando
reunidas las dos terceras partes de sus miembros, lo
decida la unanimidad de los dos tercios presentes.
62. Las Camaras gozaran en el lugar de sus sesiones
el derecho exclusivo de Policia, y tendran a sus
ordenes inmediatas una guardia nacional capaz de
mantener el decoro de su representation , y el sosiegf,
6rden, y libertad de sus resoluciones.
63. En uso de este derecho podran tambien cas
tigar con arresto que no exceda.de treinta dias »

193
devolve as a particular, privilege on each House, as
well as the solution of any doubts that may arise re
specting the same. In the same manner they are au
thorized to fix what number of members present, may
render the session constitutional and form a quorum ;
and in all cases the number met, notwithstanding it
is the smallest, may compel those who have not joined,
under the penalties they may think fit to establish.
60. The President of each House shall always be the
channel through which all these coacf ive measures are
executed, as well as all other extraordinary summons
that circumstances may require.
61. The mode of proceeding in both Houses in
their sessions, debates, and resolutions, shall be
established by themselves, and under such rules they,
are authorized to punish any of their members who
may infringe them, or who may in any other manner
incur blame, or make himself liable to the penalties
agreed on, even to the expelling him from amongst
themselves, whenever (the two third parts of the
whole members being present) it should be so unani
mously decided by two thirds of those in Session.
62. Both Houses shall enjoy the exclusive right
of police within the places of their own sessions, and
they shall have at their immediate orders a national
guard, capable of maintaining the decorum of their
representation, quiet, order, and the freedom of
their resolutions.
63. In the exercise of this right, they may also
punish with arrest, not to exceed thirty days, any

194
qnalquiera individuo que desordenada y vilipendiosa-
mente faltase al respeto en su presencia, 6 que ame-
nazarede qualesquier modo atentar contra el Cuerpo,
© contra la persona, 6 bienes de alguno de sus indi
viduos durante las sesiones, 6 yendo y viniendo a,
elias por qualquiera cosa que hubiese dicho, 6 hecho
en 1©3 debates, 6 que embaraza.se, 6 perturbase sus
deliberaciones, molestando y deteniendo a los Ofi-
ciales, © empleados de las Camaras en la execution
de sus ordenes, 6 que asaltase y detuviese qualquier
testigo, u otra persona citada, y esperada por qual
quiera de las dos Camaras, 6 que pusiese en libertad
a qualquiera persona detenida por elias, conociendo,
y constandole ser tal.
64. El proceder de cada Camara constara, solemne-
mente de un Registro diario en que se asienten sus
debates y resoluciones ; de estas se proraulgaran las
que no deban permanecer ocultas, segun el acuerdo
de cada una ; y siempre que lo reclame la quinta
parte de los miembros presentes, deberan expresarse
nominalmente los votos de sus individuos sobre toda
motion, 6 deliberation.
65. Ninguna de las dos Camaras, mientras se
hallen reunidas, podra suspender sus sesiones mas de
tres dias, sin el consentimiento de la otra, ni em-
plazarse 6 citarse para otro' lugar distinto de aquel
en que residieren las dos sin el mismo consentimiento.

195
individual whatever, who in a disorderly manner, of
out of contempt, should beliave disrespectfully in
their presence, or threaten in any manner to do any
act against the House, or the person or property of
any of the members during the session, or in going
to, or coming from, the same, for any thing they
may have said or done in the debates, or who may
hinder or disturb their deliberations, or obstruct or
detain the officers Or functionaries ©f the houses in
the execution of their orders ; who may assault or
detain any witness or person cited and watted for by
either of the houses, or who may set at liberty any
person detained by them, knowing and fully con
vinced they were such.
64. The proceedings of each house shall be for
mally entered oh daily registers, on which shall be
transcribed the debates and resolutions ; those shall
be published; which are not intended to be kept se
cret, according to the opinion of each house ; and
whenever it is claimed by a fifth part of the num
bers present, the name^s of each individual, as they
have voted on any motion or resolution, are to be ex
pressed at full length.
65. Neither of the Houses, whilst in session, shall
be allowed to adjourn for more than three days,
Without the consent of the other, nor be summoned
or Cited to meet in any.other place than that destined
for the meeting of both, without the same consent
being previously obtained. ,
o2

196
66. Los Representantes y Senadores recibiran por
sus servicios la indemnizacion que la ley les sefiale
sobre los fondos comunes de la Confederacion, com-
putandose por el Congreso el tiemp o que deben haber
invertido en venir de sus domicilios al lugar de la
reunion, y restituirse a ellos concluidas las sesiones.

SECCION SEi'TA.
Tiempo, lugar, y duration de las sesiones Legislatives
de ambas Cdmaras.
'67. El dia quince de Enero de cada afio se verifi-
eara. la apertura del Congreso en la ciudad Federal
que esta senalada por ley particular, y que nunca
podra ser la capital de ninguna Provincia, y sus
sesiones no podran exceder del termino ordinario de
un mes ; pero si se creyese necesario prorrogarlas ex-
traordinariamente, debera preceder una resolution
expresa del Congreso, senalando un termino definido
que no podra exceder tampoco de otro mes prorro-
gable del mismo modo ; y si antes de concluirse
qualquiera de estos determinados periodos hubiere
dado evasion a los negocios que llamaronsu afencion,
podra terminar desde luego sus sesiones.
68. Durante estas, podra tambien disolverse, y
emplazarse para otro tiempo y lugar, expresa y pre-
viamente designados ; y el Poder Executivo no podra
tener otra intervention en estas resoluciones, sino

197
66 . The Representative members, as well as the
Senators, shall receive for their services that remu
neration which the law may assign them out of the
public funds of the Confederation, allowances being*
also granted by Congress, for the time and distance
of coming from their homes to the place of Session, ,
as well as for returning when the House breaks up.
SECTION VI.
Time, Place, and Duration of the Legislative
Sessions of both Houses.
67. On the 15th day of January, in every year,
the Congress shall be opened in the Federal city,*
which is fixed by a particular law, and which can
never be the capital of any Province, and its sessions
shall not exceed the ordinary term of one month;
but if it should be thought necessary extraordinarily
to prorogue the House, an express resolution is to
precede naming a definitive period, which is not to
exceed a month ; when another prorogation may take
place in the same manner ; and if before any of these
periods the business brought before the House is
finished, the Session may then be ended.
68. During the Sessions, the Houses may be dis
solved and summoned for another time and place
expressly and previously fixed upon ; and the Exe
cutive Power shall have no other intervention in these
resolutions, excepting that pf naming, in case of dis*
* By a late law of Congress, Valencia has been made the Fede
ral city, and the delegates were assembled there, at the time of
the late earthquake at Caracas.

198
la de flxar, en caso de discordia entre ambas C^marae,
sobre el tiempo -y lugar, un termino que no exceda
el mayor de la disputa para la reunion en el mismo
lugar en que se encontraren entonces.
' 69. La inmumdad personal de los Representantes
y Sepadores, en todos los casos, excepto 16s pre-
venidos eii el parrafo sesenta y uno, y los de traicion
6 perturbation de la paz publiea, se reduce a, no
poder ser aprisionados durante el tiempo que desem-
petian sus luncjones legislativas, y el que gasta;an
en veilr k elias 6 restituirse a sus domicilios, y no
poder ser responsables de sus discursos u opiniones
en otro lugar que en la Camara tn que los hubiesen.
exprpsado, 70. Ninguno de ellos durante el tiempo para que
ha sido elegido, y aunque no este en exercicio de hus
funciones, podra aceptar empleos, ni cargo alguno
civil que haya sido creado, 6 aumentado en sueldos,
6 emolumentos durante el tiempo de su autoridad
legislativa. SE.CCIOM SEPTIMA.
Atribuciones especia'es del Poder Legislativo.
71. El Congreso tendra. pleno poder y autoridad
de levantar y mantener exereitos para la defensa
coniun, y disminuirlos oportunamente, — df construir,
equipar, y mantener, una marina national, — de for-

199
agreement between the Houses, respecting the time
and place, a term that does not exceed the greatest
period agitated in the disputes for assembling in the
same place.
69. The personal immunity of the Representatives
of the People and Senators, in every case, excepting
such as are specified in Article 61, and those of
treason and disturbance of the public peace, is con
fined to their not being liable to arrest, during the
time they hold their Legislative functions, and that
which they may expend in going to or coming from
their homes to attend the sittings, and their not being
answerable for their sentiments and opinions, but in
the House where the same have been expressed,
70. None of them, during the time for which they
have been elected, and notwithstanding they are not
in the immediate exercise of their functions, shall
be allowed to accept of any office or civil charge,
that may have been created or increased in salary,
or attended with remuneration, and this during the
time of their legislative authority.

SECTION VII.
Special Attributes of the Legislative Power.
71. The Congress shall have full power and an-
thority to raise and maintain armies for the common
defence, and to diminish them, as may be deemed
necessary ; to build, equip, and maintain a national

200
mar reglamentos y ordenanzas para el gobierno, adr
ministracion y disciplina de las referidas tropas de
tierra, y mar, — de hacer reunir las militias de todas
las Provincias, 6 parte de elias, quando lo exija la
execucion de las leyes de la union, y sea necesario
contener las insurrecciones, y repeler las invasiones,
— de disponer la organization, armamento y dis
ciplina de las referidas militias, y la administration
y gobierno de la parte deella que estuviere empleada
en servicio del Estado, reservando a las Provincias
la nominacion de sus respectivos Oficiales, en la for
ma que prescribieren sus constituciones particulares^
y la facultad de dirigir, citar, y executar por simis-
mas la enseiianza de la disciplina ordenada por e]
Congreso,— de establecer, y percibir toda suerte de
impuestos, derechos, y conti ibuciones que sean ne7,
cesarias para sostener- l©s exereitos, y esquadras,
siempre quelo exijan la defensa, y seguridad comun,
y el bien general del Estado, con tal que las referidas
icontribuciones se impongan, y perciban uniforme-
mente en todo el territorio de la Confederation,—
de contraher deudas por medio de emprestito de
dinero sobre el credito del Estado,-^de reglar *el
comercio con las naciones extrangeras, determinando
la quota de sus contribuciones, y la recaudacion, €
inversion de sus productos en las exigencias' comunes,
y para reglar el de las Provincias entresi, — de dis
poner abosolutajnente del ramo del tabaco, mo, y

201
navy ; to form regulations and laws for the Govern-'
ment; administration and discipline of the said land1,
and sea forces ; to call out the militia of all the
provinces, or part of them, when the execution of
the laws of the union, and the necessity of repres
sing insurrections and repelling invasions, may make
it requisite ; to regulate the organization, arming,
and discipline of the said militia, as well as the go
vernment and administration of that part thereof,
employed in the service of the State ; the nomination
of the respective officers being left to the provinces,
to be done in the manner prescribed by their parti
cular constitutions, as well as the power of direct
ing, assembling, and teaching the discipline ordained
by Congress— to establish and collect all kinds of
taxes, duties, and contributions, that may be ne
cessary to maintain armies and squadronsy whenever
the defence, common security, and general good of
the State, may require it ; provided that the said
contributions are uniformly imposed and levied
throughout the whole Confederation — to contract
debts by means of loans of money on the credit of
the State— to regulate trade with foreign nations,
determining the proportions of contributions to be
exacted from the commercial bodies, as well as the
repayment or expenditure of the proceeds of the
same, in cases ©f need, and also to regulate the trade
of the Provinces between themselves— to dispose, in
an absolute manner, of the monopoly of raw and

202
chimo, derechos de importacion y exportation,
regland©, y dirigiendo en todas la inversion de los
ga9tos, y la recoleccion de los produetos que han de
entrar por ahora en la Tesoreria national, como renta
privilegiada de la Confederacion, y la mas propia
para servir a. la defensa, y seguridad eomun, — de
acufiar, y batir moneda, determinar su valor, y el
de las extrangeras, introducir la de papel si fuere
necesario, y fixar uniformemente los pesos, y me
didas en toda la extension de la Confederation, — de
arreglar, y establecer las postas, y correos generales,
del Estado, y asignar la contribution para elias, y
para designar los grandes caminos, dexando al cargo,
y deliberation de las Provincias las ramificaciones
secnndarias que faciliten la comunicacion de sus
pueblos interiores entre si, y con las vias generales,
— de declarar la guerra y hacer la paz, conceder en
todo tiempo patentes de corso y de represalias, y
establecer reglamentos para las prcsas de tierra, y de
mar ; sea para conoeer, y decidir sobre su legalidad,
como para determinar el modo con que deben di-
vidirse, y emplearse, — de hacer leyes sobre el modo
de juzgar, y castigar las piraterias, y todos los
atentados cometidos en alta mar contra el derecho de
gentes, — de constituir Tribunales inferiores, que
eonozcan de los asuntos propios de la Confederacion
en todo el territorio del Estado, baxo la autoridad,

203
prepared tobacco,* import and export duties-, and to
regulate and direct the expenditure and the collection
pf the revenue that is to enter into the national trea
sury, as a privileged income belonging to the Con
federation, and the most proper to serve for its de*
fence and common security— to coin and stamp mo?
ney — determine its value, as well as that of foreign
monies ; introduce paper money, if necessary, and
to fix uniformly the weights and measures through*
put the whole extent of the Confederation ; to regu
late and establish posts, and general mails, through?
out the State, and assign the expences of postage, as
well as to trace the main roads, leaving to the pharge
and resolutions of the provinces, the cross roads,
neccessary for the communication of the inland towns
and general conveyances — to declare war, and make
peace, to grant at all times letters of marque and re
prisal, .to establish regulations for captures by sea
and land, as well to examine and decide on their
legality, as to determine in what manner they are to
be divided and laid out — to make laws respecting the
manner of judging and punishing piracies, and aH
crimes committed on the high seas, against the rights
of nations — to institute inferiour tribunals, to take
cognizance of all matters belonging to the Confede
ration, throughout the whole of the State, under the
* Mo and chimo, in the original, means a juice or essence ex
tracted from tobacco, and used by the inhabitants, instead of
chewing. It is carried in a small box, and being an extract, en«
ters into the general monopoly to which tobacco is subject,

204
y jurisdiction del Supremo Tribunal de Justicia, y
detallar los Agentes subalternos del Podei Exe
cutivo en el mismo territorio que no expresare esta
Constitution, — de establecer una forma permanente, y
unifornie de naturalization en todas las Provincias de
la union, y leyes sobre las bancarrotas, — de formar
las relativas al castigo de los falsificadores de efectos
publicos, y de la moneda corriente del Estado, — de
exercer un derecho exclusivo de legislation en todos
los casos,: sobre toda suerte de objetos del res©rte le
gislative, federal, 6 provincial en el lugar donde,
por el consentimiento de los Representantes de los
Pueblos que componen, y se unieren a. la Con
federacion, se determiriare fiiar en ultimo resorte
la residencia del Gobierno federal, — de examinar
todas las leyes que formasen las Legislatures pro-
vinciales, y exponer su dictamen sobre si se oponen 6
no a la autoridad de la Confederation ; y de hacer
todas las leyes y ordenanzas que sean necesarias y
propias a poner en execution los poderes antecedenfes,
y todos los otros concedidos por esta Constitution al
Gobierno de los Estados-Unidos.

205
authority and jurisdiction of the Supreme court of
Justice, and to name the subaltern agents, of the
Executive power, in those parts not expressed in this
Constitution — to establish a permanent and uniform
manner of naturalization, in all the provinces of the
union, as well as bankrupt laws— to make laws for
the punishment of forgers of public deeds*, and of
the- current money of the State — to exercise an
exclusive right of legislating in all cases, respect
ing all kinds of matters, relating to legislative,
federal, or provincial concerns, in that place where
by consent of the Representatives of the people,
who at present compose, or may be hereafter
united to the Confederation, it may be deter
mined ultimately, to fix the residence of the Federal
government, to examine all the laws which may be
made by provincial Legislatures, and to state, whether
they are, or are not, opposed to the authority of the
Confederation, and to make all the laws and regula
tions, which may be necessary and proper, to carry
into execution, the preceding power, as well as all
the others granted by this Constitution, to the govern
ment of the United States.

208
CAPITULO TERCERO.
Pel Poder Executivo.
Seccion primera.
De su naturaleza, qualidades, y duration.
T2. El Poder Executivo constitutional de la Con
federacion residira, en la Ciudad federal depositado en
tres individuos elegidos popularmente, y los que lo
fueren deberan tener las qualiqades siguientes.
. 7& Han- de ser nacidos en. el continente Colom
bian© 6 sus islas (llamado ante^ America. Espanola)
y han de haber residido en el territorio dela union
diez anos- inmediatamente antes de ser elegidos cori
las excepciones prevenidas en el paragrafo diesiseisj
sobre residencia y domitili© para los Representantesi
debiendo ademas gozar alguna propiedad- de qual*
quiera clase en bienes Iibres,
74. No estan excluidos de la election los nacidos
en la Peninsula Espanola e Islas Canarias, que hal-
landose en Venezuela al tiempo de su Independencia
politica, la reconocieron, juraron,#y contribuyeron
a, sostenerla, y que tengan ademas la propiedad y
anos de residencia prescriptas en el anterior §•„
75. La duration de sus funciones sera de quatro
anos, y al cabo de ellos seran reemplazados los tres

207

CHAP, III,
OF THE EXECUTIVE POWER.
Sec. 1st. — Of its Nature, Qualities, and Duration.
72. The Executive constitutional power shall
reside in the Federal tity, lodged in three individuals
popularly elected, and those who are thus cfrosett,
are to have the following qualities.
73. They shall have been born on the Columbian
Continent, or in the islands formerly designated
Spanish America, and they shall have resided in the
territory of the union, ten years, immediately preced
ing their election, with the exceptions stipulated in
Article 16, respecting the residence requisite for
Representatives, and they shall be possessed of some
free property.
74. Natives of Spain and of the Canary islands,
are not excluded from this election, provided they
were in Venezuela, at the time of declaring her
political Independence, that they acknowledged*
swore allegiance thereto, and helped to sustain it»
and who are besides, possessed of the property, and
can prove the number of years of residence prescribed
in the above article.
75. The duration of their. functions, shall be for
four years, at the expiration of which the three in-

208
individuos del Poder Executivo en Ta misma forma
que ellos fueron elegidos.
SECCION SEGUN DA.
Eleccion Del Poder Executivo.
76. Luego que se hallen reunidas el dia quince de1
Noviembre cada quatro anos las Congregaciones"
electorales que para la eleccion de Representantes
designa el paragrafo veintidos, y hayan hecho J a de
estos, procedcran el dia siguiente a dar su voto los
mismos Electores por escrito u de palabra, para los
individuos que han de componer el Poder Executivo
federal. 77. Cada Elector nombrara, tres personas, de las
quales una, quando menosj ha de ser habitanle de
otra Provincia distinta de la en que vota.
78. Concluida la votacion, verificado el calculo y
escrutinio, y publicado en voz alta como en la elec
cion de Representantes, se formaran con distincion
las listas delas personas en quienes se hubiere votado
para miembros del Poder Executivo con expresion del
numero de votes que cada uno hubiese obtenido.
79. Estas listas se firmaran, y certificaran por el
Presidente, Electores, y Sectetario de las respectivas
Congregaciones,, y se remitiran cerradas, y sefladas
al Presidente que fuere del Senado de la Con
federation.

209
dividuals composing the Executive Power, shall be
replaced jn the same martner they were elected.
SECTION ir.
Eieciion of the Executive Power:
76. As soon as the electoral meetings have as
sembled, on the I5th November, every four years, as
stipulated by the B2d article, for the nomination of
Representatives, and that this has been effected, the
following day, the same electors shall proceed to give
their votes in writing, or verbally, for the persons
who are to compose the Federal Executive Power.
77. Each elector shall name three persons, of
whom one at least, shall be a resident of another
province, ahd not ©f that in which he votes.
78. The voting being ended, and the examination
and results thereof being calculated, and publicly
read, in the same manner as in the election of the
Representatives, the lists shall then be made out, parti
cularizing the persons who may have voted for the
members of the Executive Power, with a statement
of the number of votes, each has obtained,
79. These lists shall be signed, and certified by
the President, Electors, and Secretary of the re
spective meetings, and shall be then remitted inclosed '
and sealed, to the President, for the time being of
the Senate of the Confederation.

210
80. Luego que este las haya recibido, las abrira
todas a, presencia del Senado, y Camara de Repre
sentantes, que a, este fin se hallaran reunidos en una
sala para contar los votos.
81. Las tres personas que hubieren reunido mayor
numero de votos para miembros del Poder Executivo
lo seran, si el tal numero compusiese las tres mayorias
del numero total de los Electores presentcs en todas
las Congregaciones del Estado ; si ninguno hubiese
obtenido esta mayoria, se tomaran entonces las nueve
personas que hubiesen reunido mayor numero de
votos, y de ellos escogera tres por cedulas la Camara
de Representantes para componer el Poder Executivo
que lo seran aquellas que obtuvieren una mayoria de
la mitad de los miembros de la Camara que se hallaren
presentes a la eleccion.
82." Si ninguno obtuviese esta mayoria escogera el
Senado por cedulas tres de entre las seis personas que
hubiesen sacado mas votos en la Camara, y quedaran
elegidos los que reunan mayor numero en el Senado.
Todas estas operaciones de las Camaras se haran tam
bien quando no los tres, sino uno u dos, sean los que
no hayan obtenido la mayoria absoluta, escogiend©se
en tales casos el numero doble 6 triple que esta de*
signado para los tres, en su proporcion respectiva.
83. El ascendiente y descendiente en Knea recta,
los hermanos, el tio, y el sobrino, los primos her-

211
80. When he has received the same, he shall open
the whole of them in the presence of the Senate, and
of the House of Representatives, who shall be assem
bled together to count the votes.
81. Those persons who may have received the
greatest number of votes to be members of the Ex
ecutive Power, shall be considered as elected, if
that same number constitutes the three majorities,
of the total of the electors present in the whole meet
ings of the State, but if no person shall have received
this decided majority, the nine persons shall then
be taken, who may have obtained the greatest num
ber of votes, of whom by ballot, the House of Repre
sentatives shall choose three to compose the Execu
tive Power, and those shall be held as duly elected,
who have in their favour, a majority of one half of
the members of the House present at the election.
82. If no one has obtained this majority, the Ser
nate shall choose by ballot three of the six persons
who may have obtained most votes in the House, and
those shall be considered as elected who may have
got most votes in the Senate, All these operations
of the Houses shall be complied with in all cases in
which either one, two, or the whole three may not
have obtained an absolute majority, but in the first
and second instance, a double or triple number is to
be chosen to that designated for ihe whole three, and
so in proportion. t
83. A descendant in a direct line, brothers, an
uncle, nephew, cousins, and those allied to each

212
manos, y los aliados por afmidad en los referidos
grados, no podran ser a un mismo tiempo miembros
del Poder Executivo : en caso de resultar electos dos
parienf.es en los grados insinuados quedara. excluido
el que hubiere obtenido menor numero de votos ; y
en caso de igualdad decidira, la suerte la exclusion.
84. El que obtenga en el calculo de ambas Ca
maras la mayoria mas inmediata a las tres requeridas
para los miembros del Poder Executivo, se tendra
por elegido para Lugar -teniente de este en las ausen-
cias, enfermedades, muerte, renuncia, 6 deposition
de alguno de los miembros; y si resultasen dos con
igualdad de votos, sorteara la Camara el que haya de
quedar en este caso.
85. Quando por alguno de las causas indicadas
faltase alguno de los miembros del Poder Executivo,
y entrase en sU lugar el Teniente de que habia el
paragrafo anterior, se entendera nombrado desde
luego para reemplazarle el que hubiese obtenido en
las elecciones la inmediata mayoria de votos, que
valdra del mismo modo a. los demas en las faltas, y
reemplazos succesivos. Si c c ion tercera.
Atribuciones del Poder Executivo.
86. El Poder Executivo tendra en toda la Confe
deracion el mando supremo de las armas de mar, y
tierra, y de las militias nacionales quando se hallen
en servicio de la Nacion.

213
other by affinity in the above mentioned degrees,
cannot at the same time be members of the Executive
Power ; and in case of the election of two relations
in the degrees above stated, he shall be excluded who
has obtained the lowest number of votes, and in case
of an equality, lots shall decide the exclusion.
84. In summing up the votes of both Houses, the
person who shall have obtained the majority next to
the three requisite to form the Executive Power,
shall b« considered as elected as a substitute in case
of absence, sickness, death, resignation, or removal
of any of the members, and if two should obtain a
parity of votes, the House shall cast lots which is to
serve in the above cases.
85. When for the causes above stated, any of the
members of the Executive Power should be wanting,
and the substitution as stipulated in the above article
should take the place, it shall be understood that he
is legally elected as substitute, who has obtained in
the elections the next majority of votes, which shall
be equally valid for those who may follow, in case
of successive vacancies, SECTION III.
Attributes of the Executive Power.
86. The Executive Power throughout the whole
Confederation, shall have the supreme command of
the land and sea forces, and of the national militia
when in the service of the State,

214
87. Podra pedir, y deberan darle los principales
oficiales del resorte Executivo en todos sus ramos,
quantos infofmes necesitare por escrito, 6 de palabra
relativos a la buena administration general del Es
tado, y desempeiio de la confianza respectiva que
depositare en los empleados publicos de todas clases.
88. En favor, y amparo de la humanidad podia,
perdonar, y mitigar la pena aunque sea capital en los
crimenes de Estado, y no en otros; pero debe con-
sultar al Poder Judicial expresandole las razones de
conveniencia politica que Ie inducen a. ello, y solo
podra. tener efecto el perdon, 6 commutation quando
sea favorable el dictamen de los Jueces que hayan
actuado en el proceso.
89. Solo en el caso de injusticia evidente y notoria,
que irrogue perjuicio irreparable, podra rechazar, y
dexar sin efecto las sentencias que le pase el Poder
Judicial ; pero quando por solo su dictamen crea
que estas son contrarias a. la ley, debera, pasar en con-
sulta sus reparos al Senado, quando este reunido, 6
a, la comision que el dexara autorizada en su receso
para ocurrir a. estos casos.
90. El Senado 6 sus Delegados en estas consultas,
serviran de Jueces, y pronunciaran sobre elias defi-
nitivamente, declarando si tiene lugar 6 no la nega-
tiva del Poder Executivo a el cumplimiento de la

215
87. It is authorized t© ask, and all the principal
officers of the State in every branch are obliged to
give, every information the former may require, in
writing or verbally, relating generally to the good
administration of the State, and to the discharge of the
respective trusts lodged with the public functionaries
of every class. ,
88. In favour of, and in btiialf of humanity, it
shall have power to pardon and mitigate the punish
ment, notwithstanding it be capital, of State crimes,
but not in others ; but previously consulting the Ju
dicial power, who is to be made acquainted with the
motives of political convenience, which induce the
Executive to do it; and the pardon or change of
punishment are only to take place, when the same are
in conformity to the opinions of the Judges, who
have sat on the trial.
89. Only in cases of evident and notorious injus
tice, such as may be attended with irreparable injury,
is the Executive allowed to reject and over-rule the
opinion of the Judicial power ; but when the former
is persuaded that these opinions are contrary to law,
the objections are to. be stated by way of consultation
to the Senate, when assembled, or to the Commis
sioners, which the latter may, at its recess, have
left authorized to act in similar cases.
90. The Senate or its delegates in these consulta
tions, shall be as judges, and pronounce thereon de
finitively, declaring whether or not the negative of
lhe Executive is to counteract the fulfilment of the

B«lfckiO

216
sentencia que debera, executarse en el segundo caso
inmediatamente, y en el primero devolverse al Poder
Judicial para que asociado con dos miembros mas
elegidos por el Senado 6 su comision, se vea la
causa, y reforme dicha sentencia.
91. Pero si la sentencia hubiese recaido sobre
acusacion hecha por la Camara de Representantes,
solo podra el Poder Executivo suspenderla hasta la
proxima reunion del Congreso, a quien solo compete
en estos casos el perdon, 6 relaxamiento de la pena.
92. Quando una urgente utilidad, y seguridad
ptiblica lo exijan, podra el Poder Executivo de-
cretar, y publicar indultos generales durante el re-
ceso del Congreso.
93. Con previq aviso, consejo, y consentimiento
del Senado, sancionado por el voto de las dos terceras
partes de los Senadores, que se hallaren presentes en
numero constitutional, podra, el Poder Executivo
concluir tratados, y ncgociaciones con las otras Po-
tencias, b Estados extrafios a. esta Confederation.
94. Baxo las mismas condiciones, y requisitos,
nombraret los Embajadores, Enviados, Consules, y
Ministros, los Jueces de la Al*a Corte de Justicia,
y todos los demas Qficiales, y Empleados en el Go
bierno del Estado, que no esten expresamente indi-
cados en la Constitution, 6 por alguna Ley estable-
cida, o que se establezca por el Gongresq.

217
sentence, which in the latter case is to be immedi
ately executed ; and in the first it is to be referred
back to the Judiciary, who with the addition of two
members elected by the Senate, or by their commission,
is to reconsider the case, and reform the said sen
tence. 91. But if the sentence shall have followed an
accusation made by the House ©f Representatives,
the Executive Power, in that case, can only suspend
it till the next meeting of Congress, to whom then
alone belongs the pardon or the relaxation of the
punishment. 92. When any urgent advantage ©r the public se
curity demands it ; the Executive may decree and,
publish general indults during the recess of Congress.
93. By previous notice being given, and by the
counsel and consent of the Senate, sanctioned by the
vote of two -third parts of the Senators, assembled in
sufficient number to form a constitutional sitting,
the Executive may enter into treaties and negoti
ations with other Powers and States not belonging to
this Confederation.
94. Under the same conditions and requisites, it is
also authorized to name Ambassadors, Envoys, Con
suls, Ministers, Judges of the high court of Jus
tice, and all the other officers and functionaries in the
government of the State, who may not be expressly
indicated in the Constitution, or by some established
law, or by one that may in future be established by
Congress,

218
95. Por leyes particulars podra, este descargar al
Poder Executivo y al Senado del improbo trabajo de
nombrar todos los subalternos del Gobierno, come-
tiendo su nombramiento a solo el Poder Executivo, a.
las Cortes de Justicia, 6 a los Gefes de los varios ra-
mos de administration segun lo estimare conveniente.
96. Tambien necesitara el Poder Executivo del
previo aviso, consejo, y consentimiento del Senado
para conceder grados militares, y otras recompensas
honorificas, compatibles con la naturaleza del Go
bierno, aunque sea por acciones de guerra, vi otros
servicios importantes ; y si* estas recompensas fuesen
pecuniarias debera preceder el consentimiento de la
Camara de Representantes para su concesion.
97. Pero durante el receso del Senado, podra el
Poder Executivo proveer por si solo los empleos que
vacasen, concediendolos como en comision hasta la
Sesion siguiente, si antes no se reuniese ipor acaso el
Senado. 98. Por si solo podra, el Poder Executivo elegir, y
nombrar los sujetos que han de servir las Secretariaa
que el Poder Legislativo haya creido necesarias para
el despacho dc todos los ramos del Gobierno federal,
y nombrara, tambien los Oficiales, y empleados en
elias, quando scan ciudadanos de la Confederacion ;
pero no siendolo debera consultar y seguir el dictamen,
y deliberacion del Senado en semej antes nombra-
mientos.

219
95. By particular laws, the latter may relieve the
Executive and the Senate of the troublesome task of
nominating the whole of the subaltern officers of go
vernment, by confiding this charge only to the Exe
cutive, to the courts of Justice, or to the heads of
the different branches of administration, as may ap
pear most convenient
96. The Executive Power must likewise first ob
tain the advice, counsel and consent of the Senate^
in order to grant military grades, and other honora
ble remunerations, compatible with the nature of go
vernment, notwithstanding they are to reward war
like acts, or important services, and if these com
pensations are pecuniary, the consent of the House
Of Representatives must be previously given.
97. But during the recess of the Senate, the Exe
cutive Power is authorized to fill the offices that may
bec©me vacant, granting them as it were by com
mission, till the next session, if the Senate does not
assemble before that period.
98. The Executive Power is authorized by itself,
to elect and name the persons who are to serve in the
State offices, which the Legislative Power may have
considered necessary for the dispatch of all the
branches of the Federal government ; as well as to
nominate the clerks and functionaries for the same,
provided they are citizens belonging to the Con
federation, but if not, it is to consult and follow the
opinion and resolution of the Senate in such ap
pointments.

220
99. Como consequencia de esta facultad podra
removerlos tambien de sus destinos quando lo juzgue
conveniente; pero si esta remocion la hiciere no por
faltas, & crimenes indecorosos, sino por meptitud,
incapacidad u otros defectos compatibles con la ino-
cencia e inteeridad, debera entonces recomendar al
Congreso el merito anterior de estos Empleados, para
que sean recompensados e indemnizados competente-
mente en otros destinos, con utilidad de la Nacion,

SECCION QUARTA.
Deberes del Poder Executivo,
100. El Poder Executivo conformandose a las
leyes y resoluciones que en las varias ocurrencias le
comunique el Congreso, proveera. con todos los
recursos del resorte de su autoridad, a la seguridad
interior y exterior del Estado, dirigiendo para esto
proclamas a los pueblos de lo interior, intimaciones,
ordenes, y todo quanto crea conveniente.
101. Aunque por una conseqiiencia de estos prin
cipios puede hacer una guerra defensiva para repeler
qualquier ataque imprevisto, no podra continuarla
sin el consentimiento del Congreso, que convocara.
inmediatamente, si no se hallare reunido, y nunca
podra sin este consentimiento hacer la guerra fuera
del territorio de la Confederation.

221
99. As a consequence of this faculty, it Can also
remove them from their situations when it may think
proper, but if such removal does not take place in
consequence of faults and misdemeanours, but from
a want of talent and ability, or from any other dei
feet, not incompatible with their innocence and in
tegrity, it ought then to recommend the former me
rit of these -functionaries to Congress, that they may
be remunerated and competently indemnified with
other situations in the service of the nation.
SECTION IV.
Duties of the Exeeuiive Power *
100. The Executive Power, in conformity to the
laws and resolutions which on various occasions may
be communicated to it by Congress, will provide by
every means within the reach of its authority, for
the interior and exterior security of the State, di
recting for this purpose proclamations to the towns
of the interior, as well as notifications, orders, and
whatever may be thought necessary.
101. Notwithstanding by a consequence of these
principles, the Executive is authorized to undertake
a defensive war, in order to repel any sudden attack ;
it cannot continue the same without the consent of
Congress, which shall be assembled, if not then sit
ting, and without this previous consent, the former
has not power to wage war out of the territory of the
Confederation.

222
102. Todos los anos presentara al Congreso en sus
dos Camaras, una razoii circunstanciada del estado
de la nacion en sus rentas, gastos1 y recursos, indi-
candole las reformas que dcban hacerse en los ramos
de la administration publica, y todo lo demas que
en general deba tomarse en Consideration por las Ca
maras, sin presentarle nunca proyectos de ley, for-
mados 6 redactados como tales.
103. En todo tiempo dark tambien k las Camaras
las cuentas, informes, e ilustraciones que por elias
se le pidan, pudiendo reservar las que por entonces no
scan de publicar, y en igual caso podra, reservar
tambien del conocimiento de la Camara de Repre
sentantes, aquellas negociaciones 6 tratados secretos
que hubiere entablado con aviso, consejo, y con
sentimiento del Senado.
104. En toda ocurrehcia extraordinaria debera
convocar al Congreso, 6 a, una de sus Camaras ; y
en caso de diferencia entre elias sobre la epoca de su
emplazamiento, podra fixarles un termino para su
reunion, como se previene en el paragrafo 68.
105. Sera uno de sus principales deberes velar
sobre la exacta, fiel, e inviolable execucion de las
leyes ; y para esto y qualquiera otra medida del re
sort© de su autoridad, podra. delegarla en los ofi-
ciales y empleados del Estado que estimare con
veniente al mejor desempeiio de esta importante
obligation.

223
102. Every year it shall lay before both Houses of
Congress, a particular statement of the situation of
tlie country, with regard to revenue, expences and
resources, pointing out the reforms that ought to be
made in the branches of public administration, as
well as every thing else that ought to come under
the consideration of the two Houses, but without
presenting the projected forms of a law, drawn up
and worded as such.
103 It shall also be held at all times bound to
lay before the Houses, the accounts, information
and explanations, which the latter may require!, re
serving only those which for the moment are not to
be published ; and in similar cases the Executive may
withold from the knowledge of the House of Repre
sentatives, those secret treaties or negotiations it may
have entered into with the advice, counsel and con
sent of the Senate.
104. In all extraordinary occurrences, the Exe
cutive is to convene Congress, or at least one of the
Houses, and in case of any difference between them
respecting the period of their summons, it can then
fix the time of assembling, as stipulated in article 68.
105. It shall be one of its principal duties to watch
over the exact, faithful and inviolable execution of
the laws, and for this as well as every other measure
devolving on its authority, it may delegate the same
t© the officers and functionaries of the State, the most
suitable to fulfil so important an obligation.

224
106. Para los misnios fines, y arreglandose a la
forma que prescribiere el Congreso, podra el Poder
Executivo comisionar cerca de los TribunaleS y
Cortes de jUsticia de la Confederation, Agentes o
Delegados para reqiierirlas sobre la observancia de
las formas legales y exacta aplicacion de las leyes
antes de terminarse los juicios; comUnicando al Con
greso las reformas que crea necesarias, segun el in-
forme de estos comisionados.
107. El Poder Execuiivo comb gefe permanente
del Estado, sera el que reciba a, nombre suyo los
Embaxadores y demas Enviados, y Ministros pub
licos de las naciones extrangeras.
SECCION QUINTA.
Disposiciones generales relativas al Poder Execulivd.
108. Los Poderes Executivos provinciates, 6 los
Gefes encargados del gobierno de las Provincias";
seran en ella los Agentes naturales e irimediatos del
Poder Executivo federal, para todo aquel lo que pot
el Congreso general no estuviere cometido a. Em
pleados particulares en los ramos de Marina, Exer-
cito, y Hacienda National en los puertos y plazas de
las Provincias.
109. Inmediatamente que el Poder Executivo, 6
alguno de sus miembros sean acusados y convencidos
ante el Senado de traicion, venalidad 6 usurpation^
seran desde luego destituidos de sus funciones^ y su-

225
106. For the same purposes, and in conformity to
the manner which may be prescribed by Congress*,
the Executive Power may commission agents or de
legates near the tribunals and courts of justice, to
remonstrate with them respecting the observance of
the legal forms, and the exact application of the laws,
before the suits are closed ; communicating to Con
gress the reforms that may be considered necessary,
from the reports of these commissioners.
107. The Executive Power, as chief of the State,
shall be authorized to receive in its name, the am
bassadors, envoys, and public ministers of foreign
nations. ,
section v.
General dispositions relative to the Executive Power.
108. The provincial Executive Powers, or the
chiefs charged with the government of the provinces,
shall in each be the natural and immediate agents of
the Federal Executive Power, respecting every thing
that by the general Congress, has not been particu
larly given in charge to the officers employed in the
navy, army, and the branches of the national finance
in the ports or principal places of the provinces.
109. As soon as ever the Executive Power, or
any one of the members thereof, shall be accused
before the Senate, and convicted of treason, venality
or usurpation ; they shall be immediately divested of
Q

226
jetos a, las conseqiiencias de este juicio que se ex-
presan en el paragrafo 58.

CAPITULO QUARTO.
' Del Poder Judicial.
SECCION PRIMERA.
Naturaleza, eleccion, y duration de este Poder.
110. El Poder Judicial de la Confederacion estara
depositado en una Corte Suprema de justicia, resi-
dente en la ciudad federal, y los demas Tribunales
subalternos y juzgados inferiores que el Congreso
estableciere temporalmentc en el territorio de la
union. 111. Los Ministros de la Corte Supre*ma de jus
ticia, y los de las demas Cortes subalternas, seran
nombrados por El Poder Executivo en la forma
prescriptaen et paragrafo 94.
112. El Congreso seiialara y determinara, el nu
mero de Ministros que deben componer las Cortes de
Justicia, con tal que los elegidos sean de edad de
treinta aiios para la Suprema, y de veinticinco para
las demas, y tengan las calidades de vecindad, con-
cepto, probidad, y sean Abogados recibidos en el
Estado.

227
their functions, and subjected to the consequences of
the judgment, stipulated in article 58.

CHAP. IV.
OF THE JUDICIAL POWER*
Sec. 1st. — Nature, Election, and Duration of this
Power.
110. The Judicial Power of the Confederation
shall be lodged in a Supreme Court of Justice, resi
dent in the Federal city, and in the other inferior
tribunals and judicatures, which Congress may
establish, for the present, in the territory of the union.
111. The ministers of the Supreme Court of Jus
tice, and those of the inferior ones, shall be named
by the Executive Power, in the manner prescribed
in article 94.
112. The Congress shall point Out and determine
the number of ministers, who are to ^compose the
Courts of Justice, provided those elected be of the
age of thirty years for the Supreme court, and twenty-
five for the others, and that they possess the quali
ties of residence, respectability, probity, and are
lawyers received in the State. 0.2

228
1 13. Todos ellos conservaran sus empleos por el
tiempo que no se hagan incapaces de continuar en
ellos por su mala conducta.
1 14. En periodos fixos determinados por la ley,
recibirkn por este servicio los sueldos que se les
asignaren, y que no podran ser en manera alguna
disminuidos, mientras permanecieren en sus respec-
tivas funci©nes. Seccion segunda.
Atribuciones del Poder Judicial.
115. El Poder Judicial de la Confederation, estara.
• circunscripto a. los casos cometidos por ella; y son,
— tedos los asuntos contenciosos, civiles, 6 eriminales
que se deriven del contenid© de esta Constitucion, —
!©s tratados © negociaciones hechas baxo su autori
dad,— todo lo concerniente a Embaxadores, Minis
tros, Consules, — los asuntos pertenecientes a, Almi-
rantazgo, y jurisdiction maritima, — las diferencias
en que el Estado federal tenga 6 sea parte, — las que
se susciten entre dos 6 mas Provincias, — entre una
Provincia, y uno 6 muchos ciudadanos de otra, —
entre ciudadanos de una misma Provincia que dispu-
taren tierras concedidas por diferentes Provincias, — »
entre una Provincia, 6 ciudadanos de ella, y otros
Estados, ciudadanos, 6 vasallos extrangeros.
116. En estos casos exercera su autoridad la Su
prema Corte de justicia por apelacion, segun las reg-

229
113. The whole of them shall preserve their offices
till their bad conduct may render them incapable of
retaining them
114, At fixed periods determined by law, they
shall receive for this service, the salaries that may
be assigned them ; and which cannot in any manner
be diminished, as long as they fulfil their respective
functions, section ii,
Attributes of the Judicial Power.
115. The Judicial Power of the Confederation
shall be circumscribed to the matters confided thereto
by the latter; viz. all the litigious, civil or cri
minal questions, which may arise from the contents
of this Constitution — the treaties and negociations
carried into effect under its authority — every thing
concerning ambassadors, ministers, and consuls —
matters belonging to the Admiralty and maritime
jurisdiction — the differences in which the Federal
State may have, or form part-^-those which may arise
between two or more provinces — between a, 'province,
and one or more citizens of another — between citizens
of the same province, who may dispute lands granted
by different provinces — between one province, or ci
tizens thereof, and ©ther States, citizens, or foreign
vassals. 116. In these cases, the Supreme Court of Jus
tice shall exercise its authority by appeal, according

230
las y excepcioiies que le prescribiere el Congreso ;
pero en todos los concernientes a, Embaxadores, Mi
nistros, y Consules, y en los que alguna Provincia
fuere parte interesada, la exercera exclusiva y ori-
ginalmente. 117. Todos los juicios criminales ordinarios que
no se deriven del derecho de acusacion concedido a, la
Camara de Representantes por el paragrafo quarenta
y«quatro, se terminaran por jurados luego que se
establezca en Venezuela este sistema de legislation
criminal, cuya actuation se hara, en la misma Pro
vincia en que se hubiese cometido el delito ; pero „
quando el crimen sea fuera de los limites de la Con
federacion contra el derecho de gentes, determinara
el Congreso por una ley particular el lugar en que
haya de seguirse el juicio.
„118. La Suprema Corte de justicia tendra el de
recho exclusivo de examinar, aprobar y expedir titulos
a, todos los Abogados de la Confederacion que acre-
dvten sus estudios con testimonio de su respectivo
Gobierno ; y los que los obtengan en esta forma,
estaran autorizudos para abogar en toda ella, aun
donde haya colegios de Abogados, cuyos privilegios
exclusivos para actuation, quedan derogados, y ten
dran opcion a los empleos y comisiones propias de
esta profesion ; siendo presentados los referidos titulos
al Poder Executivo de la union, antes de exercerla.

231
to the rules and exceptions prescribed by Congress,
but in those in which a province bears an interested
part, the same shall in that case, exercise its own
original and exclusive authority.
117. All the ordinary criminal cases, which may
not belong to the right of accusation granted to the
House of Representatives by the 44th article, shall
be tried by juries, as soon as this criminal system of
legislation may be established in Venezuela; the pro
ceedings whereof shall take place in the same pro
vince in which the crime was committed ; but when
it has occurred out of the limits of the Confederation,
and is against the law of nations, the Congress by.
a particular law, shall determine the place in which
the trial is to take place.
118. The Supreme Court of Justice shall have
the exclusive right ©f examining, approving and
granting diplomas to all the attornies of the Con
federation, who may have proved under the testimony
of their respective governments, that they have per
formed the necessary courses of studies ; and those
who may in this manner obtain them, shall be au
thorized to practice throughout the whole of the
same, even where there may be colleges of lawyers,
whose exclusive privileges to practice are hereby
annulled ; and they shall also have the right of being
elected to any of the offices and commissions belong
ing to their profession, the above titles being pre
viously presented to the Executive Power of the
union, before the said right is exercised, in order to

232

para que les ponga el correspondiente pase ; lo que
igualmente se practicara, con los Abogados que habi-
endo sido recibidos fuera de Venezuela, quieran abo,-

gar en ella.

CAPITULO QUINTO,
SECClON PRIMERA.
De las Provincias.
Limites de la autoridad de cada una.
119, Ninguna provincia particular puede exercer
acto alguno que c©rresponda a, las atribuciones con-
cedidas al Congreso, y al Poder Executivo de la
Confederacion, ni hacer ley que comprometa los
contratos generales de ella.
120. Por consiguiente ni dos, ni mas Provincias
pueden formar alianzas, 6 Confederaciones entre si,
concluir tratados particulares sin el consentimiento
del Congreso ; y para obtenerlo deben especificarle
elfin, terminos, y duracion de estos tratados, 6 con
ventions particulares.
121. Tampoco pueden sin los mismos requisitos y
consentimiento, levantar, ni mantener tropas, 6
baxeles de guerra en tiempo de paz, ni entablar, 6
concluir pactos, estipulaciones, ni convenios con nin
guna potencia extrangera.

233
receive the necessary warrant ; which form shall also
be observed by those lawyers who having been re-,
ceived out of Venezuela, may there wish to practice
their profession.

CHAP V.

Sec. 1st. — Of the Provinces, Limits of the Authority,
of each.
1 19. No particular province shall be allowed to
exercise any act which may belong to the attributes
granted to Congress, and to the Executive Power of
the Confederation ; nor to make any law that may
affect the general contracts of the same.
120. Consequently, neither two nor more provinces
shall be allowed to form alliances, or Confederations
amongst themselves ; nor to conclude particular
agreements without the consent of Congress, and in
order, t© obtain the same, they are to specify thereto
the object, terms, and duration of all such agree
ments, or particular conventions.
121. Neither can they without the same requisites
and consent of Congress, raise or maintain troops, or
vessels of war in time of peace, nor set on foot or con
clude contracts, stipulations, or agreements with
any foreign power.

234
122. De los mismos requisitos, y anuencia necesitan
para poder establecer derechos de tonelada, importa
tion, y exportation al comercio extrangero en sus
respectivos Puertos, y al comercio inferior, y de
cabotage entre si ; pues que las leyes generales de la
union deben proeurar uniformarlo en la libertad de
toda suerte de trabas funestas a su prosperidad.
123. Sin los mismos requisitos, y consentimiento
no podran emprehender otra guerra que la puramente
defensiva en.un ataque repentino, 6 riesgo inminentc
6 inevitable de ser atacadas, dando inmediatamente
parte de estas ocurrencias al Gobierno federal para
que provea a, elias oportunamente.
124. Para que las leyes particulares de las Pro
vincias no pueden nunca enforpeccr la marcha de las
federales, se someteran siempre al juicio del Con
greso antes de tener fuerza, y valor de tales en sus
respectivos departarnentos, pudiendose entre tanto
llevar a execucion, mientras las revee el Congreso,

SECCION SSGTJN-DA,
Corvespondencia reciproca entre si.
125: Los actos publicos de todas clases, y las sen
tencias judiciales sancionadas por los Poderes Ma-
gistrados y Jueces de una Pr©vincia, tendran entera

235
122. It shall not be lawful for them, without the
same previous requisites and consent, to establish
tonnage, import and export duties, on foreign trade
in their respective ports, or on the interior and
coasting trade : for it is the duty of the general laws
of the union, to endeavour to render the same uni
form in the freedom of every kind of restraints, that
may affect the prosperity of each
123. Without the same requisites and consent, it
shall not be lawful for them to undertake any war,
that is not purely defensive, and in case of a sudden
attack, imminent danger, or the certain dread of
some assault ; giving immediate notice to the Federal
government of all similar occurrences, in order that
it may make timely prpvision against the same.
124. In order that the particular laws of the pro
vinces, may in no wise counteract those enacted by
the Confederation, they shall at all times be previously
submitted to the judgment of the Congress, before
they have their full force and effect, in their respective
departments; it being however lawful to carry them
into execution, in the mean time that they are re-
yised by Congress. ^
SECTION II.
Reciprocal Correspondence between etich.
125. All public acts of every kind., as well as
judicial sentences, sanctioned by the authorities,
magistrates, and judges of one province, shall re-

236
fe, y credito en todas las demas comforme a las leyes
generales que el Congreso establecicre para el uni-
forme, e invariable efecto ' de estos actos, y docu
mentos. 126. Todo hombre libre de una Provincia, sin
nota de vago 6 reato judicial, gozara en las demas de
todos los derechos de ciudadano libre de elias ; y los
habitantes de la una, tendran libre y franca la entrada
y salida en las otras, y gozaran en elias de todas las
ventajas y beneficios de su industria^ comercio e in
struction, sujetandose a, las leyes, impuestos y re-
stricciones. del territorio en que se hallaren, con tal
que estas leyes no se dirijan a impedir la traslacion de
una propiedad infroducida en una Provincia, para
qualquiera de las otras que quisiere el proprietario.
127. Las Provincias a requerimiento de sus respect
tivos Poderes Executives, se entregaran reciproca-
mente qua'esquiera de los reos acusados de crimen de
Estado, hurto, homicidio, u otros graves, refugiados
en elias, para que sean juzgados por la autoridad
provincial a que corresponda.

Seccion tercera.
Aumento succsivo de la Confederacion.
128. Luego que Iibres de la opresion que sufren
las Provincias de Coro, Maracaybo y Guayana, pue-
ehsn y quieran unirse a la Confederation, seran ad-

237
ceive full credit and belief in all the others, in con
formity to the general laws, which Congress may
establish for the uniform, and invariable effects which
are to accompany similar documents.
126. Every free man of one province, who may
not be known as a vagrant, or marked by some public
criminality, shall in all the others, enjoy all the
rights of a free citizen thereof; and the inhabitants of
one, shall have free ingress and egress from the rest,
and shall; enjoy therein all the advantages and benefits
of their industry, commerce and tuition, subjecting
themselves to the laws, imposts, and restrictions of
the district in whieh they may be ; provided that these
same laws are not opposed to the transfer of any pro
perty, introduced into one province, for any of the
others, the owners thereof may wish.
127. The provinces at the requisition of the re
spective Executive Powers, shall reciprocally deliver
up to each other, all persons accused of State crimes,
robbery, murder or other capital offences, who
may have taken refuge therein, that they may be
tried by the provincial authority to whom the same
belongs. SECTION in.
Successive increase of the Confederation.
128. As soon as the province of Coro, Maracaybo,
and Guayana, freed' from the opression under which:
they now labour, are able and desirous of being

238
mltidas a, ella, sin que la violenta separation en que
a, su pesar y el nuestro haU permanecldo, pueda al-
terar para con elias los principios de igualdad, jus
ticia y fraternidad, de que gozaran desde luego como
todas las demas Provincias de la union. .

129. Del mismo modo, y baxo los mismos prin
cipios seran tambien admitidas e incorporadas qua-
lesquiera otras del continente Colombiano (antes
America Espanola ) que quieran unirse baxo las con
diciones y garantias necesarias para fortificar la
union con el aumento y enlace de sus partes inte-
gr antes. 130. Aunque el conocimiento, examen, y resolu
tion de estas materias y qualesquiera Otras que ten
gan relation con elias, es del exclusivo rfisorte del
Congreso, durante el tiempo ,de su seceso podra, el
Poder Executivo promover, y executar quanto con-
venga a, los progresos de la Union, baxo las reglas
que paraello le prescribiere el Congreso.
131. A este toca tambien conocer exclusivamente
de la formation, 6 establecimiento de nuevas Provin
cias en la Confederacion, ya sea por division del ter
ritorio de otra, 6 por la reunion de dos, 6 mas, 6 de
partes de cada una de elias ; pero nunca "quedara
concluido el establecimiento sin el acuerdo y consen-

239
united to the confederation, they shall be admitted to
the same, without the forced separation, in which in
spite of themselves and us, they have been kept,
making any difference in the principles of equality,
justice, and fraternity, which they shall enjoy from
that time, the same as the other provinces of the
union. 129. In. like rhanner and under the same principles,
shall he admitted and incorporated, any other of the
provinces of the Columbian continent, (before
Spanish America ) which may be desirious of uniting
therewith, under the necessary conditions and gua
rantees, in order to strengthen the union, by the ad
dition and connexion of their integral parts.
130. Notwithstanding the cognizance, examina
tion, and determination of these matters, .or any
others that may have any relation thereto, exclusively
belongs to the authority of Congress, during the time
- of its recess, the Executive Power is authorized to
promote, and do every thing that may contribute to
the progress of the union, under the regulations which
may be prescribed by Congress.
131. It also exclusively belongs to, the latter, to
¦ regulate the formation or establishment, of new pro -
vinces in the Confederation, whether it be by a
division of the territory of one, or by the union of
two, or more, or of parts of any of them ; but the
establishment thereof shall* not be .considered as de
finitively settled, till the accord and consent of the

240
Jtimiehto del Congreso, y de las Provincias interesadas
ten la reunion, 6 division. i
132. El Congreso sera igualmente arbitro para
disponer de todo territorio, y propriedad del Estado,
baxo las leyes, reglamentos, y ordenanzas que para
ello expidiere, con tal qne en elias no se altere, ni
interprete parte alguna de esta Constitution, de
modo que daiie a, los derechos generates de la Union,
da los particulares de las Provicias.

S,E CCION QUAR TA.
Mntiia gar all a de las Provincias entre si.
133. El Gobierno de la Union asegura, y garali-
tiza a, las Provincias la forma del Gobierno Repub
lican© que cada una de elias adoptare para la admi
nistration de sus negotios domesticos : sin aprobar
Constitucion alguna Provincial que se oponga a los
principios liberates, y francos de representacion ad-
mitidos en esta, ni consentir que en tiempo alguno se
establezca otra forma de Gobierno en toda la Confe
deration. 134. Tambien afianza a las mismas Provincias su
libertad, e independencia reciprocas en la parte de
su Soberania que se'han reservado ; y siendo justo,

241
Congress is obtained, as Well as of the provinces in
terested in the annexation or division.
132. Congress shall also have the power to dispose
Of all lands and property belonging to the State,
Under the laws, regulations, and ordinances which it
may form for the same ; provided that no part of this
Constitution is altered or interpreted so as to injure
the general rights of the Union, or the particular
ones of the provinces. SECTION IV.
Mutual guarantee of the provinces to each other.
133. The government of the Union secures and
guarantees to the provinces, the form of that Re
publican government, which each may adopt for the
administration of its domestic concerns ; but without
approving of any provincial Constitution which may
be opposed to the liberal and free principles of repre
sentation herein contained, and without at any time
consenting that any other form of government be esta
blished throughout the whole of the Confederation.
134. It also confirms to the said provinces, their
reciprocal liberty and independence, in that part of
their sovereignty which they have reserved to them
selves ; and when just and necessary, it will protect
and aid each One of them against all invasions or do
mestic violence, with the plenitude of power and
force which may be confided to it, for the preser-
R

242
y necesario protegera, y auxiliara a. cada una de elias
contra toda invasion, 6 violencia domestica, con la
plenitud de poder y fuerza que se le confia para la
conservation de la paz y seguridad general ; siempre
que fuere requerido para ello por la Legislatura pro
vincial, 6 por el Poder Executivo quando el Legis
lative no estuviere reunido, ni pudiere ser convo-
£ado.

CAPITULO SEXTO.
Revision, y reforma dc la Constitticion.
135. En todos los casos en que las dos terceras
partes de cada una de las Camaras del Congreso, 6
de las Legislaturas provinciales se propusieren, y
aprobaren original, y reciprocamente algunas re-
formas, 6 alterciones que crean neeesarias en esta
Constitution, se tendran estas por validas, y haran
desde entonces parte de la misma Constitution .
136. Ya provenga la reforma del Congreso, 6 de
las Legislaturas, permaneceran los artieulos some-
tidos a, la reforma en toda su fuerza y vigor, hasta
que uno de los Cuerpos autorizado para ella, haya
aprobado y sancionado lo propuesto por el otro en la
forma prevenida en el paragrafo anterior.

243

vation of the general peace and security, whenever the
same may be required of it by the Provincial Legis
lature, or by the Executive Power, in case the for
mer is not assembled, and cannot be convened.

CHAP. VI,
Revisal and reform of the Constitution.
135. In all cases wherein two-thirds of each of the
Houses of Congress, or of the Provincial Legisla
tures, shall propose, and originally, and reciprocally
approve, of any reforms or alterations which they
may consider necessary to this Constitution, the
same shall then be held as valid, and thencefor
ward form part thereof.
136. Whether the reform originates with the Con
gress, or with the Legislatures, the articles submit
ted to a reform, shall remain in their full force and
vigour, till one of the bodies authorized to that
effect, shall have approved of, and sanctioned the
alteration proposed by the other, iu the manner pre
scribed in the preceding article.

rS

244
v. CAPITULO SEPT I MO.
Sancion o ratification de la Constitution.
137. El pueblo de cada Provincia por medio de
convenciones particulares, reunidas expresamente para
el caso, 6 por el organo de sus Electores capitulares,
autorizados determinadamente al intento, 6 por la
voz de los Sufragantes parroquiales que hayan for-
mado las Asambleas primarias para la eleccion de
Representantes, expresara, solemnemente su voluntad
libre y espontanea de aceptar, rechazar, 6 modificar
en todo, 6 en parte esta Constitution.
138. Leida la presente ConstituciOn a, las Corpo-
raciones que hubiere hecho formar cada Gobierno
provincial, segun el articulo anterior, para su apro-
bacion, y verificada esta con las modificaciones 6 al-
teraciones que ocurrieren por pluralidad, se j urara
su observancia solemnemente, y se procedera dentro
de tercero dia a nombrar los funcionarios que les cor-
respondari die lbs poderes que forman la Representa
cion national, cuya eleccion se hara en todo caso por
los Electores que van designados.
139, El resultad© de ambas operaciones se comu-
iiicara, por las respectivas Municipalidades al Gobi
erno de su Provincia, para que presentandolo al Con
greso quando se reuna, se resuelva por el lo conve
niente.

.245
CHAP. VII.
Sanction or ratification of the Constitution.
137. The people of each province, by means of par
ticular meetings, expressly convened for the purpose,
or through the organ of their district electors, con
clusively authorized to that effect, or by the voice of
their parochial voters, who may have formed the
primary meetings for the election of Representa
tives, shall solemnly express their free and sponta
neous will, to accept, reject, or to modify the
whole, or part of this Constitution.
138. The present Constitution, in order to receive
their approbation, being read to the Corporations
each provincial government may have caused to be
formed, in conformity to the preceding article ; the
same being obtained; together with the modifications
and alterations which may occur by a plurality of
votes; the observance thereof shall be solemnly
sworn ; and within the third day, they shall proceed
to name their respective functionaries to fill the
powers created by the national Representation, which
choice shall in all cases, be made by the electors al
ready pointed out.
139. The results of both operations, shall by the
respective Municipalities, be communicated to the
government of the corresponding province, in order

246
140. Las Provincias que se incorporen de nuevo
a la Confederacion, lleiiaran en su oportunidad estas
mismas formalidades ; aunque el no hacerlo ahora
por causas poderosas 6 insuperables, no sera, obsta-
culo para reunirse en el momento en que sus Go
biernos lo pidan por Comisionados 6 Delegados al
Congreso, quando este reunido, 6 al Poder Executivo
durante el receso.

CAPITULO OCTAVO.
Derechos del hombre que se reconocerdn y respeiardni
en toda la extension del Estado.
Section primera.
Soberania del Pueblo.
141- Despues de constituidos los hombres en soci
edad, han renunciado a, aquella libertad ilimitada y
licenciosa a, que facilmente los conducian sus pasi
ones, propria solo del estado salvage. El estableci
miento de la sociedad presupone la renuncia de estos
derechos funestos, la adquisicion de otros mas dulces
y pacificos, y la sujecion a. ciertos deberes mutuos.
1^2. El pacto social asegura a, cada individuo el
goce y posesion de sus biehes, sin lesion del derecho
que los demas tengan a los su) os.

247
that the same being laid before Congress, when
assembled, the latter may decide thereon.
140. The Provinces which may be newly incor
porated to the Confederation, shall at a proper time,
comply with these formalities ; and notwithstanding
they may not for the present, urged by powerful and
insuperable causes, have fulfilled the same, it shall
not nevertheless be an obstacle against future an
nexation, whenever their governments may demand
the same, by commissioners or delegates to Congress,
when assembled, or to the Executive Power, during
its recess.

CHAP. VIII.
Rights of man, which, are to be acknowledged and
respected throughout the whole extent of the State.
SECTION III.
Sovereignty of the People.
141. After men have been constituted into so
ciety, they have renounced that unlimited and li
centious liberty to which they were easily lead by
their passions, it being only adapted to a savage state.
The establishment of society pre-supposes the
renunciation of these fatal rights, the acquisition of
others more sweet and pacific, as well as a subjection
to certain mutual duties.
142. The social compact secures to each individual,
the enjoyment and possession of his property, with
out detriment to the right which others may have to
theirs.

248
143. Una sociedad de hombres reunidos baxo Unas
mismas leyes, costumbies, y gobierno, forma una sot
beranp. 144., La soberania de un pais, 6 supremo poder de ,
reglar, y dirigir equitativamente los intereses de la
comunidad, reside pues esencial y originalmcnte en
la masa general de sus habitantes, y se exercita por
medio de Apoderados 6 Representantes de estos, nom
brados y establecidos conforme a la Constitution.
145. Ningun individuo, ninguna familia, ninguna
porcion 6 reunion de ciudadanos, ninguna corpora
tion particular, ningun pueblo, ciudad, 6 partido,
puede atribuirse la soberania de la sociedad, que es
imprescriptible, inagenable e indivisible en su esen-
cia y origen, ni persona alguna podra exercer qual
quiera funcion publica del gobierno, si no la ha ob
tenido por la Constitution.
146. Los Magistrados y oficiales del Gobierno, in-
yestidos de qualquiera especie de autoridad, sea en el
Departamento Legislative, en el Executivo, 6 en
el Judicial, son de consiguiente raeros Agentes y
Representantes del pueblo en las funciones que exr
ercen, y en todo tiempo responsables a. los hombres 6
habitantes de su conducta publica por "vias legitinias
y constitucionales. 147. T©dos los ciudadanos tienen derecho indis-
tintamente a, los empleos publicos, del modo, en las
formas, y con las condiciones prescfiptas por la ley,
no siendo aquellos la propiedad exclusiva de alguna
cjase de hombres en particular ; y ningun hombre,

249^
143. A society of men, united under the same
laws, customs, and government, form a sovereignty,
144. The sovereignty of a country, or the su-?
preme power of regulating and equitably directing
the interests of the community, therefore essentially,
and originally, resides in the general mass of its in
habitants, and is exercised by means of their em
powered agents or representatives, nanied and esta
blished in conformity to the Constitution.
145. No individual, no family, no portion or re
union of citizens, no particular corporation, no.
town, tity, or district, shall attribute to itself the
sovereignty of the society, which is imprescriptible,
unalienable, and indivisible in its essence and origin ;
and no person whatever shall exercise any public
function of government, unless he has obtained it by
the Constitution.
146. The magistrates and officers of government,
invested with any species of authority, either in the
Legislative, Executive, or Judicial departments,
are of consequence, mere agents and representatives
of the people in the functions they exercise, and are
at all times responsible to them for their public con
duct, through the legal and constitutional channels.
' 147. Every citizen, without distinction, has a"
right to the public employments, in the manner and
under the forms and conditions prescribed bylaw;
the same not being the exclusive property 'of any par
ticular class of men ; and no man, corporation, or
spciety of men, shall have any other title, whereby

250
corporation 6 asociacion de hombres, tendra. otro ti
tulo para obtener ventajas y considerations particu
lares, distintas de-las de los otros en la opcion a los
empleos que forman una carrera publica : sino el que
proviene de los servicios hechos al Estado.
148. N© siendo estos titulos ni servicios en manera
alguna hereditarios por la naturaleza, ni transmi-
sibles a los hijos, descendientes, u otras relaciones,
de sangre, la idea de un hombre nacido magistrado,
legislador, juez, militar, 6 emplcado de qualquiera
suerte, es absurda, y contraria a, la naturaleza.
- 149. La ley es la expresion libre de la voluntad
general, 6 dela mayoria de los ciudadanos, indicada
por el ©rgano de sus Representantes legalmente con-
stituidos. Ella, se funda sobre la justicia, y la uti-
lidad comun, y ha de proteger la libertad publica
e individnal contra toda opresion 6 violencia.
150. Los actos exe'rcidos contra qualquiera per
sona fuera de los casos, y contra las formas que la
ley determina, son iniquos, y si por ellos se usurpa
la autoridad constitutional, 6 la libertad del pueblo*
seran tiranicps.
Seccion segtjnda.
Derechos del hombre en sociedad.
151. El objeto de la sociedad, es la felicidad co
mun; y los Gobiernos han sido instituidos para ase
gurar al hombre en ella, protegiendo la mejora y
perfection de sus facultades fisicas y morales., aq-t

251
]o obtain advantages or particular considerations^
distinct from others, in the choice of offices, whieh
<may constitute a public career^ excepting those
which may arise from services to the State.
148. These same titles being however in no wise
hereditary by nature, or transmissible to the sons,
descendants, or to other relations by blood, the idea,
of a man being born a magistrate, legislator, judges
soldier, or functionary of any kind, is absurd, and
contrary to nature.
149. The law is the free expression of the general
will, or of the majority of the citizens, indicated
through the organ of their Representatives legally
constituted. It is also founded on justice and com
mon utility, and is to protect public and individual
liberty, against oppression and violence.
150. A" acfs exercised against any person, out of
the cases and contrary to the forms which the, law
determines, are iniquitous ; and if by the same they
usurp the constitutional authority or the liberty of
the people, they shall be deemed tyrannical.
SECTION II.
Rights of Man in Society. i
151 . The object of society, is the felicity of aH ;
and governments have been instituted to secure man
in the same, by protecting the amelioration of his
physical and moral faculties, increasing the sphere of

252
aientaiido la esfera de sus goccs, y proeurandole el
mas just© y honesto exercicio de sus derechos.
152. Estos derechos son la libertad, la igualdad,
la propiedad, y la seguridad.
153. La libertad es la facultad de haeer todo lo
que no dafia a los derechos de ©tros individuos, ni
al cuerpo de la sociedad, cuyos limites solo pueden
determinarse por la ley, por que de otra suerte serian.
arbitrarios, y ruinosos a la misma libertad.
154. La igualdad consiste en que la ley sea una
misma para todos los Ciudadanos, sea que castigue,
6 que proteja. Ella no reconoce distincion de napi-
miento, ni herencia de poderes.
155. La propiedad es el derecho que cada uno tie^-
pe de gozar y disponer de los bienes que haya ad-
quirido con su trabajo, e industria.
156. La seguridad existe en la garantia, y protec
tion que da la sociedad a, cada uno de sus miembros
sobre la conservation de su persona, de sus derechos,
y de sus propiedades.
157. No se puede impedir lo que no esta, prohi-
bidio por la ley, y ninguno podra. ser obligado a ha
cer lo que ella no prescribe.
158. Tampoco podran los Ciudadanos serrecon-
venidos en juicio, acusados, presos, ni dete nidos, sino
en los casos, y en las formas determinadas por la ley ;
y el que provocate, solicitare, expidiere, subscribiere,
executarc, 6 hiciere executar ordenes, y actos arbi
trarios, debera ser castigado; pero todo Ciudadaup

20
his enjoyments, and obtaining for him, the most jusl,-
and honest exercise of his rights.
152. These rights are, liberty, equality, right of
property and security.
153. Liberty, is the faculty of doing every thing
that does not injure the rights of other individuals,
or the body of society, whose limits can only be de
termined by law, for other vtise they would become
arbitrary, and ruinous to liberty itself.
154. Equality, consists, in that the law is the
same for all citizens ; it is what punishes and what
protects ; it neither knows the distinction of birth,
nor the inheritance of power.
155 Property, is the right which each enjoys of
disposing of the goods, which he may have obtained
by his labour and industry.
156. Security, exists in the guarantee and pro
tection which society gives to each of its members,
with regard to the preservation of their persons,
rights, and properties.
157. It shall not be lawful to hinder any thing not
prohibited by law, and no one shall be obliged to do
anything, that is not thereby prescribed.
158. Neither can the citizens be recriminated,
accused, held in custody, nor detained, excepting in
the cases and manner determined by .law ; and he who
may incite, solicit, issue, subscribe, execute, or
cause to be executed, arbitrary orders or acts, shall
be punished ; but every citizen who may be called upon,

254
que fueste llamado, 6 aprehendido en virtud de la ley,
debe obedecer al instante, pues se hace Culpable por
la resistencia,
159, Todo hombre debe presumirse inocenf© hasta^
que no haya sido declarado culpable con arreglo a
las leyes; y si entretantd se juzga indispensable ase-
gUrar su persona; qualqUier rigor que ho sea para
est© sumamente necesario, debe ser reprimido:
160 Ninguno podra. ser juzgado, ni cOnderiado al
sufrimiento de alguna pena en materias Criminales,
sino despues que haya sido ©ido legalmente. T©da
persona ert semejantes casos tendra derecho parapedir
el motiv© de la aCusacion intentada contra ella, y co-
nocer de su naturaleza para ser confrontada cbh sua
acuSadores, y testigos contrarios, pai'a produtir otroi
en su favor, y qUantas pruebas puedan serie favorable*
dentro de terminos regulares, por si, por su poder,
6 por defensor de su eleccion ; y ninguna sera torn-
pelida, ni forzada en ninguna causa a dar testimonid
contra si misma, com© tampoco los acendierites, y de-
cendientes^ ni los colaterales, hasta el quarto gradO
civil de cohsanguinidad, y segunda de aiinidad.
i ¦'
161. fil Cottgreso, Con ia brevedad posible; estable*
cera por una ley detail adamente el juicio por jurados
para los casos Criminales y civiles, a que comunmente
se aplica en otras naciones, con todas las formas pro-
pias de este procedimiento, y hara. entonces las decla
raciones que aqui correspondan en favor de la libertad

255
or apprehended by virtue of the law, ought instantly
to obey, for he becomes culpable by resistance.
159. Every person shall be presumed innocent,
till he has been declared guilty in conformity to the
laws ; and if in the mean time it should be thought
necessary to secure him personally, all severity that
may not be essentially necessary to this end, is to be
suppressed. 160. No person shall be judged, or condemned,
to the sufferance of any punishment in criminal mat
ters, till after he has been legally heard. Every one
in similar cases, shall have the right of demanding the
motive of the accusation attempted against him, and
to have knowledge of its nature ; to be confronted
against his accusers and opponent witnesses ; to pror
duce others in his favour, as well as every other, proof
that may be favourable to his cause, within proper
periods, either by means of himself, by powers, pr
by an attorney of his own choice ; but no person shall
be compelled or forced in any cause, to give testi
mony against himself, nor against direct or collateral
relations to the fourth civil grade of consanguinity,
and the second of affinity.
161. Congress shall, with all possible brevity,"
establish by law and at full length, the trial by ju
ries, for criminal and civil cases to which the same
is commonly applied by other nations; together with
all the forms of proceeding therein ; and it shall*, at
the same time, make the declaration* belonging; to
this place, in favour of liberty and personal security,

256
y seguridad personal, para que sean parte de esta; f
se observen en todo el Estado:
162: Toda persona tiene derecho a, estar segura de"
que n© sufrira pesquiza alguna, registro, averigua-
cion, capturas, 6 embargos irregulares, e indebidos
de su persona, su casa, y sus bienes; y qualquiera
6rden de los Magistrados para registrar lugares sos-
pechosos sin probabilidad de algun hecho grave que
1© exija, ni eXpres adesignacion de los referidos lu
gares, 6 para apoderarse de alguna, 6 algunas per
sonas, y de sus propriedades, sin nombrarlas, ni in-
dicar lo^metivOs del procedimiento, ni que haya pre-
cedido testimohi©, 6 deposition jurada de personas
creibles, sera, confraria a aquel derecho, peligrosa a
la libertad, y no debera expedirse.
163 La casa de todo Ciudadand es un asilo invio
lable.! Ninguno tiene derecho de entrar en ella, "siriO
en los casos de incendio, inundation • 6 reclamation
que provenga del interior de la misma casa, 6 quando
lo 'texija algun procedimiento criminal conforme a las
leyes, baxo la responsabilidad de las aUtoridades^ con-
stituidas que expidieren los deCretos : las visitas do-
miciliarias, 'y execuciones civiles solo podran haCerse
de dia, en virtud de la ley, y con respecto a la per
sona y objetos, expresamente indicadbs en la acta que
prdenare la visita 6 la execution.
- 164. Quando seacordaren por la publica auto
ridad semejantes actos, se limitaran estos a la per-
sona, y objetos expresamente indicados en el decreto>
en que se ordena la visita y execution, el qua! no po-

25f
that they may form part of this Constitution, and be
observed throughout the whole State.
162. Every person has the right of being secure of
not suffering any search, inquest, .examination, or
irregular and unlawful seizure of his person, house,
or property ; and any order of a magistrate to exa
mine suspicious places, ( without the probability of
some grievous act requiring the same ) and not ex
pressly designating the said places ; or for the seizure
of one or more persons, or their property, without
naming the same, and indicating the motives of such
procedure, together with . the previous testimony,
and sworn deposition of creditable persons, shall be
held as contrary to the above right, dangerous to
liberty, and unlawful to issue.
163. The house of every citizen is an inviolable
sanctuary. No one has any right to enter therein,
excepting in cases of Ure, inundation, or on aid
being demanded therefrom ; or when any criminal
proceedings take place in conformity to the laws, and
under the .responsibility of the Constitutional autho
rities which may have issued the decrees. Domiciliary
searches and civil executions can only take place
during day, by virtue of the law, and with respect
to the person and objects expressly named in the act,
ordaining such search or execution.
164 When, by public authority, similar acts are
granted, the same shall be limited to the person and
objects, expressly pointed out in the decree, ordaining
the said search and execution .$ which shall not bow-

^258
dra extenderse al registro, y examen de los papeles
particulares, pues estos deben mirarse como inviola-
Jbles ; igualmente que las correspondencias epistolares
de todos los Ciudadanos que no podran ser intercep-
tadas por ninguna autoridad, ni tales documentos
probaran nada en juicio, sino cs que se exhiban por
-la misma persona a qnien se hubiesen dirigido por su
autor, y nunca por otra tercera, ni por el reprobado
medio de la interceptacion. Se exceptuan los delitos
de alta traicion contra el Estado, ej de falsedad y
demas que se cometen, y executan precisamente por
la escritura,-en cuyos casos se procedera al registro,
examen j aprehension de tales documentos con arre-
glo a, lo-djspuestO por las leyes.
165. Todo individuo de la sociedad teniendo dere
cho a-serprotegido por ella en el goce de su vida, de
su libertad, y de sus propiedades con arreglo a las
leyes,. esta obligado de consiguiente a. contribuir por
su parte para las expensas do esta protection, y a
prestar sus servicios personales, 6 un equivalente de
ejlos quando sea necesario ; pero ninguno podra, ser
privado de la menor porcion de su propiedad, ni esta
podra, aplicarse a, usos publicos, sin su propio con
sentimiento, 6 el de los Cuerpos Legislativos repre
sentantes del Pueblo; y quando alguna publica nece
sidad legalmente comprobada exigiere que la pro
piedad, de algun Cindadano se aplique a usos seme
jantes, debera recibir por ella una justa indemni-
,zacion. . 166. .Ningun subsidiq,carga, impuesto, tasa 6 con
tribution podra. establecerse, ni cobrarse, baxo qual-

259
«ver, be extended to the inquest and examination of
individual papers ; these shall be held inviolable, in
like manner as the epistolary correspondences of all
citizens, which it shall not be lawful for any autho
rity to intercept, nor shall the same be valid in a
court of justice, unless produced by the person to
whom they have been forwarded by their author,
but never by a third person, or when obtained by the
reprobated means of interception. Crimes of high
treason against the State, are however, excepted ; as
well as forgery and others, which may be commit
ted by writing ; in which cases, the search, exa
mination, and seizure of any such documents, shall
take place according to the dispositions of the law.
165. Every individual of society holding the right
to be protected by the same in the enjoyment of his
life, liberty, and property, according to the laws,
is of consequence bound to contribute on his part to
the expences of this protection, and to lend his per
sonal services, or an equivalent for the same, when
ever it may be necessary ; but no person shall be de
prived of the smallest portion of his property, nor
can the same be applied to public uses without his
own c©nsent, Or that of the Legislative bodies re
presenting the people, and when any public necessity
legally proved, should require that the property of
any citizen be applied to similar uses, he is to receive
therefore a just indemnity.
166. No subsidy, charge, impost, tai or con
tribution, can be established or levied> Under apy
s2

260
quiera pretexto que sea, sin el consentimiento del Pue
blo expresado por el ©rgano de sus Representantes.
Todas las contributiones tienen por objeto lautilidad
general, y los Ciudadanos el derecho de vigilar sobre
su inversion, y de hacerse dar cuenta de elias por el
referido conducto.
167. Ningun genero de trabajo, de cultura, de in
dustria, 6 de comercio seran prohibidos a. los ciuda
danos, excepto aquellos que ahora forman la subsis-
•tencia del Estado, que despues oportunamente se li-
bertaran quando el Congreso lo juzgue util, y con
veniente a. la causa publica,
168. La libertad de reclamar cada ciudadano sus
derechos ante los depositaries de la autoridad pub
lica, con la moderation, y respeto debidos, en ningun
caso podra, impedirse, ni limitarse. Todos, por el con
trario, deberan hallar un remedio pronto, y seguro,
con arreglo a, las leyes, de las injurias, y daiios que
sufrieren en sus personas, en sus propiedades, en su
honor, y estimation.
IS9. Todos los extrangeros, de qualquiera na
cion que sean, se recibiran en el Estado. Sus personas,
y propiedades gozaran de la misma seguridad que
las de los demas ciudadanos, siempre que respeten la
Religion Catolica, unica del Pais, y que reconozcan
la independencia de estos pueblos, su soberania, y las
autoridades constituidas por la voluntad general de
sus habitantes.
170. Ninguna ley criminal, ni civil podra tener
efecto retroactivo, y qualquiera que se haga para
juzgar, 6 castigar acciones cometidas antes que ella

*,.iW~.

261
\
/
pretext whatever, without the consent of the people
expressed through the organ of their Representatives.
All contributions have for object the general utility,
arid the citizens have the right of watching over
their expenditure, and to cause account thereof to be
laid before, them, through the same channel.
167. No kind of labour, culture, industry, or
trade, shall be prohibited to the citizens, excepting
those which at present form the subsistence of the
State, but which shall hereafter be opened when
Congress may judge it useful and conducive to the
public cause.
168. The liberty of each citizen claiming his
rights before the depositaries of the public authority!,
with due moderation and respect, can in no case be
hindered or withheld. All, on the contrary, ought
to find a ready and sure remedy, in conformity to the
laws, for the injuries and damages they may sustain in
their persons, properties, honour, and good opinion.
169. All foreigners, of whatever nation they may
be of, shall be received into the State. Their per
sons and properties shall enjoy the same security as
those of the other citizens, provided they respect the
Catholic religion, the only one tolerated ; that they
acknowledge the independence of this country, its
sovereignty, and the authorities constituted by the
general will of the inhabitants.
170. No law, criminal or civil, shall haye a re
troactive effect, and any that may be enacted, in order
to judge and punish a.cts committed^ before the ex-

262
exista sera, tenida por injusta. opresiya, e inconforme
con los principios fundamentales de un Gobierno
libre. 171. Nunca se exigiran eauciones excesivas, ni se
impondran penas pecuniarias desproporcionadas con
los delitos, ni se condenaran los hombres a castigos
crueles, ridiculos, y desusados. Las leyes sanguina
rias deben disminuirse, como que su freqiiente apli-
cacion es inconducente a la salud del Estado, y no
menos injusta que impolitica, siendo el verdadero de-
signio de los castigos, corregir, y no exterminar el
genero humano.
172. Todo tratamiento que agrave la pena deter-
minada por la ley, es un delito.
173. El uso de la tortura, queda abolido perpetua-
mente. 174. Toda persona que fuere legalmente detenida,
6 presa, debera ponerse en libertad luego quede cau
tion, t) fianza suficiente, except© en los casos en que
haya pruebas evidentes, 6 grande presuncion de de
litos capitales. Si la prision proviene de deudas, y
no hubiere evidencia, © vehemente presuncion de
fraude, tampoco debera permanecer en ella, luego
que sus bienes se hayan puesto a, la disposition de sus
respectivos acreedores, conforme a las leves.
175. Ninguna sentencia pronunciada por traicion
contra el Estado, 6 qualquiera otro delito arrastrara,
infamia a los hijos, y descendientes del reo.
176. Ningun tiudadano de las Provincias del Es-
, tado, excepto los que estvuieren empleados en el ex-

$63
istence of the same, sball be held as unjust, oppres
sive, and incompatible with the fundamental principles
of a free government.
171. It shall never be lawful to demand excesssive
securities, nor shall pecuniary fines be exacted, dis-
proportioned to the crimes, or persons be condemned
to cruel, ridiculous, or unusual punishments. San
guinary laws ought to be diminished, as their freqdent
application is injurious to the State, and not less un
just than impolitic; for the true object of punishments,
is to correct, rather than destroy the human race.
172. All treatment that may render more grievous
the punishment determined by law, shall be held as a
crime. 173. The use of the torture, is for ever abolished.
174. Every person who may be legally detained
or held in custody, shall be set free, as soon as he has
given sufficient security; excepting in the cases in
which there are evident proofs, or great presumption
of capital crimes. If the arrest arises from debt, and
there is no evident proof, or great presumption of
fraud, the prisoner shall not be detained as soon as his
property has been delivered up to his creditors, in con
formity to the laws.
175. No sentence pronounced for treason against
the State, or for any other crime, shall entail infamy
on the children or desendants of the criminal.
176. No citizen of the provinces of the State, ex
cepting those employed in the army, navy, or milith*

264
ercito, en la marina, 6 enlas milicias, que se ha llaren
en actual servicio, debera sugetarse a, las leyes mili-
tares, ni sufrir castigos provenidos de ellasv
177. Los militares, en tiempo de paz, no podran
aquartelarse, ni tomar alojamiento en las casas de los
demas ciudadanos particulares sin el consentimiento
de'sus duefios, ni en tiempo de guerra, sino por orden
de los Magistrados civiles, conforme a las leyes.
178. Una milicia bien reglada, e instruida, com-
puesta de los ciudadanos, es la defensa natural mas
conveniente, y mas segura k un Estado libre. No,
debera haber por tanto tropas veteranas en tiempo
de paz, sino las rigorosamente precisas para la segu
ridad del pais, con el consentimiento del Congreso.
179. Tampoco se impedira a los ciudadanos el derecho
de tener, y llevar armas licitas, y permitidas para su
defensa; y el Poder Militar en todos casos se con
servar a en una exacta subordination, a la autoridad
civil, y sera dirigido por ella.
180-, No habra. fuero alguno personal : solo la na
turaleza de.las materias determinara los Magistrados
a que pertenezca su conocimiento ; y los empleados
de qualquier ram©, en los casos que ocurran sobre
asuntos que no fueren propios de su profesion, y car-
rera, se sujetaran al juicio de los Magistrados, y
Tribunales ordinarios, como los demas ciudadanos.
181. Sera, libre el derecho de manifestar los pen-
samientos por medio de la imprenta; pero qualquiera
que lo exerza se hara, responsable a las leyes, si
ataca, y perturba con sus opiniones la tranquilidad

265
then in actual service, shall be subjected t© military
law, nor suffer punishments inflicted by the same.
J 77. Soldiers in time of peace, shall not be allowed
to quarter themselves, nor take up lodgings, in the
houses of private citizens, without the consent of the
owners ,- nor in time of war, but by order of the
civil magistrates, conformably to the laws.
176. A well regulated and trained militia, com
posed of the citizens, is the most proper and natural
defence, as well as the most secure, to a free State.
For this reason, it shall not be lawful in time of
peace, to keep up an establishment of regulars,
greater than is absolutely necessary for the security
of the country, by the consent of Congress.
179. Neither shall it be unlawful, for the citizens
to have and carry legal arms, such as are permitted
for their own defence ; and the military power shall,
in all cases, mantain a strict subordination to the civil
authority, and be directed by the same.
180. No personal privileges or immunities shall
be allowed, the nature of the matter, shall alone
determine the magistrates who take cognizance
thereof: and the functionaries of every class, in the
cases which do not touch their profession and em
ployment, shall be subject to the ordinary magistrates
and tribunals, the same as the other citizens.
181. The right of manifesting all ideas by means
of the press, shall be free; but any person who may
exercise the same, shall be answerable to the laws, if
he attacks and disturbs by his opinions, the public

266
poblica, el dogma, la moral cristiana, la propiedad,
honor, y estimation de algun ciudadano.
182. Las Legislaturas provinciales tendran el de
recho de petition al Congreso, y no se impedira a los
habitantes el de reunirse ordenada y pacificamente en
sus respectivas Parroquias para consultarse, y tratar
sobre sus intereses, dar instrucciones a sus RepreT-'
sentantes en el Congreso, 6 en la Provincia, 6 dirigir
petitiones al uno 6 al otro Cuerpo legislativo, sobre;
reparation de agravios, 6 males que sufran en sus
propios negocios.
183. Para todos estos casos debera preceder neces-
ariamente solicitud expresa por escrito dc los padres
de familia, y hombres buenos de la Parroquia, quando
menos en numero de seis, pidiendo la reunion a la
respectiva Municipalidad, y esta determinara el dia,
y comisionara algun Magisfrado, 6 persona respe-
table del partido para que presida la Junta, y des
pues de concluida, y extendida la acta, la remita a, la
Municipalidad que le dara la direction conveniente.
184. A estas Juntas solo podran concurrir los Ciu
dadanos sufragantes, o Electores, y las Legislaturas
no estan absolutamente obligadas a, conceder las peti
tiones, sino a, tomarlas en consideration para pro-
ceder en sus funciones del mod© que pareciere mas
conforme al bien, general.
185! El poder de suspender las leyes, 6 de detener
su execution, nunca debera exercitarse, sino por las
Legislaturas respectivas, 6 por autoridad dimanada
de elias paro. solo aquellos casos particulares que hu-

287
tranquility, the belief Christian morality, or the
property, honour and good opinion of any citizen.
182. The provincial Legislatures, shall have the
right of petitioning Congress, and it shall not be
unlawful for the inhabitants to assemble, orderly and
quietly, in their respective parishes, in order to con
sult and treat respecting their own concerns, to give
instructions to their Representatives in Congress or
in the province, or to direct petitions to one or other
of the Legislative bodies, respecting the reform of
grievances or ills, they may suffer in their affairs.
183. For cases of this nature, a previous petition
ought necessarily to be made out, signed by the heads
pf families, and other respectable persons of the parish,
to at least the number of six,' praying the respective
municipality, that the meeting may take place, and
the latter shall determine the day, and commission a
magistrate or some other respectable person of the
parish, to preside in the meeting, which being closed
and the act drawn up, he shall remit the same to the
municipality, in order to forward it to its desti
nation- 184. Voting citizens or electors, are alone allowed
to concur in these meetings, and the legislatures are
not absolutely obliged to accede to these petitions,
but to take them into consideration, in order to pro
ceed in their functions, in the manner which may ap
pear most conformable to the general good.
185. The power of suspending the laws, or of
stopping their execution, shall at no time be exercised.

268
bieren expresamente provisto fuera de los que ex
presa la Constitution; y toda suspension, 6 dcteucion
que se haga en vi?tud de qualquiera autoridad sin el
consentimiento de los Representantes del Pueblo, se
rechazara'como un atentado a sus derechos.

186. El Poder Legislativo suplira, provisional-
rnente a todos los casos en que la Constitucion re-
spectiva estuviere muda, y proveera con oportunidad
arreglandose a, la misma Constitucion la adiccion q
reforma que pareciere necesario hacer en ella.
187, El derecho del Pueblo para participar en la
Legislatura es la mejor seguridad, y el mas firme
fundament© de un gobierno libre: por tanto es pre-
ciso que \ih elecciones sean Iibres y frequentes, y que
los Ciudadanos en quienesconcurren las calificaciones
de moderadas propiedades, y demas que procuran un
mayor interes a, la comunidad, tengan derecho para
sufragar, y elegir los miembros de la Legislatura a,
epocas sefialadas y poco distantes, com© previene la
Constitucion.

188, Una dilatada continuation en los principales,
funcionarios del Poder Executivo, es peligrosa a la
libertad; y esta circu'nstancia reclama poderosamente
una rotacion periodica entre los miembros del referido
Departamento para asegurarla.

269
excepting by the respective Legislatures, or by some
authority emanating from them for those particular
cases only, which they may have expressly foreseen^
to be exceptions to what is enacted by the Constitu
tion ; and all suspensions and obstruction to the execu
tion thereof, which may take place without the consent
of the Representatives of the people, shall be repelled
as an infringement on their rights.
186. The Legislative Power shall in the mean
time, act in all cases respecting which the Constitu
tion may hare been silent, and opportunely provide
for the same ; incorporating therein the additions or
reforms, which it may have thought necessary to make
in the Constitution.
187. The right of the people to participate in the
Legislature, is the best security and the firmest foun
dation of a free government : iii consequence whereof,
it is necessary for the elections to be free and frequent,
and that the citizens who may possess the qualifica
tions of a moderate" property, and who are besides
desirous to promote the good of the community,
should have the right of voting and electing the mem
bers of the legislature, at fixed periods, and not too
long, as is enacted by the constitution.
188. A too long continuation in office on the part
of the principal functionaries of the Executive
Power, is dangerous to liberty ; and this circumstance
oowerfully calls for a periodical rotation, between the
members of the said department, in order to secure
the same*

270
189. Los tres departamentos esenciales del Go
bierno, a saber : el Legislative, el Executivo, y el
Judicial, es preciso que se conserven tan separados,
e independientes el uno del otro, quanto lo exija la na
turaleza de un Gobierno libre, 6 quanto es conveni
ente con la cadena de conexion que liga toda la fa-
brica de la Constitucion en un modo indisoluble de
amistad, y union.
190. -La emigration de unas Provincias a otras, sera
enter amente libre.
•191. Los Gobiernos se ban constituido para la
felicidad comun, para la protection y seguridad de
los Pueblos que los componen, y no para el beneficio,
honor, 6 privado interes de algun hombre, de al
guna familia, 6 de alguna clase de hombres en par
ticular, que solo son una parte de la comunidad. El
mejor de todos los Gobiernos sera el que fuere mas
propio para producir la mayOr suma de bien, y de
felicidad, y estuviere mas a, cubierto del peligro de
una mala administration ; y quantas veces se reco-
nociere que un Gobierno es incapaz de llenar estos
objetos, 6 que fuere contrario a ellos la mayoria de
la.'' nacion, tiene indubitablemente el derecho ina-
genable, e imprescriptible de abolirlo, cambiarlo, 6
reformario, del modo que j uzgue mas propio para pro-
cUrar el bien publico* Para obtener esta indispen
sable mayoria, sin daiio de la justicia ni de la liber
tad general, la Constitution presenta y ordena los
niedios mas razonables, justos, y regulares en el

271
¦: 189. The three essential departments of govern-
Jtnents, viz. the legislative, executive and judicial,
must necessarily be kept as distinct and independent
of each other,- as the nature of a free government re
quires, and as much as is consistent with the great
chain of connexion, which binds together the whole
fabric of the constitution, by ah indissoluble tie of
friendship and union.
190. The emigration from one province to another,
8hall be perfectly free.
191. Governments have been instituted for the com
mon felicity, for the protection and security of the peo
ple forming the same, and not for the benefit, honour,
or private interest of any one person, family, or of any
one particular class of men, who only constitute part
of the community. The best of all governments is
that which is the most proper to produce the greatest
proportion of good, and of happiness,- and is less ex
posed to the danger of bad administration ; therefore
as many times as a government may be found incapa-
Jble of answering these ends, or that the majority of the
nation is opposed to the same, it has undoubtedly an
unalienable and imprescriptible right of abolishing,
changing, or reforming it in the manner which maybe
conceived most conducive to the public good. In order
to obtain this indispensible majority without any in
jury to justice, and to general liberty, the constitution
presents, and ordains the most reasonable, just, and re-
-gular means in the chapter of the revisal thereof, and

272
capitulo de la revision, y las Provincias adoptaran
otros semejantes, 6 equivalentes en sus respectivas
Constituciones. SECCION TERCERA.
Deberes del hombre en la sociedad.
192. La deelaracion de los derechos contiene las
obligaciones de los Legislad©res ; pero la conserva
tion de la sociedad pide que los que la componen,
conoZcari, y llenen igualmente las suyas.
193. Los derechos tie los otros son el limite moral
^ue los nuestros, y el principio de nuestros deberes
relativamente a los demas individuos del Cuerpo
-social. Ellos reposan sobre dos principios que la
naturaleza ha gravado en todos los corazones ; a,
saber : Haz siempre a los otros todo el bien que quisi-
eras recibir de ellos. No hagas d otro^lo que no quisi-
eras que se te hiciese.
194. Son deberes de cada individuo para con la
•sociedad, vivir sometido a, las leyes, obedecer, f
respetar a, los Magistrados y autoridades constituidas,
que son sus organos, mantener la libertad, y la
igualdad de derechos; contribuir a los gastos pub
licos, y servir a, la Patria quando ella lo exija, ha-
ciendole el sacrificio de sus bienes, y de su vida, si
«s necesario.195. Ninguno es hombre de bien, ni buen ciuda-
daao, si no observalas leyes fiel y religiosamente, si

273

ihe provinces will adopt other similar or equivalent
»nes, in their respective Constitutions.
SECTION in.
Duties of man in society.
192. The declaration of rights, contains the
obligations of the Legislators, but the preservation
of society demands, that those who constitute the
same, equally know and fulfil theirs.
193. The rights of others, become the moral limit*
bf ours, and the ground work of our duties rela
tively to the rest of the individuals forming the social
body. They are founded on two principles, which
nature has imprinted on the hearts of all, viz. 1st,
Do thou to others at all limes, all the good thou
wouldest wish io receive from them. 2dly, Do not
thou to another, what thou wouldest not wish done to
thee. 194. It is the duty of every individual in society,
to live in obedience to the laws, to obey and respect
the magistrates and constituted authorites, who are
his own organs ; to maintain the liberty and the
equality of rights ; to contribute to the public ex-
pences, and to serve his country when requisite,
making for the same the sacrifice of his property,
and of his life, should it be necessary.
.195. No one is a good man or a good citizen,
who does not faithfully and religiously observe the

274
no es buen hijo, buen hermano, buen amigo, buen
esposo, y buen padre de familia.
196. Qualquiera que traspasa las leyes abierta-
mente, 6 que sin violarlas a, las claras, las elude con
astucia, 6 con rodeos artificiosos y culpables, es
enemigo de la sociedad, ofende los intereses de todos,
y se hace indigno de la benevolencia y estimation
publicas.
Seccion quart a.
Deberes del Cuerpo social.
197. La Sociedad afianza a los individuos que la
comppnen el goce de su vida,, de su libertad, de sus
propiedades, y demas deretiios naturales ; en esto
consiste la garantia social que resulta de la action re-
unida de los miembros del Cuerpo, y depositada en
la Soberania national,
198. Siendo instituidos los Gobiernos para el bien,
y felicidad comun de los hombres, la Sociedad debe
proporcionar auxilios a los indigentes, y desgraciados,
y la instruction a, todos los Ciodadanos.
199. Para precaver toda trattsgresion de les altos
poderes que nos han sido confiados, declaramos .' que
todas y cada una de las cosas constituidas en la anteridr
declaration de derechos, estan etintas y fuera del al-
cance del Poder general ordinario del Gobierno, y que
conteniendo 6 apotyandose sobre los indestructibtes y
sagrados principios de la naturaleza, toda ley contraria

275
laws ; and if he is not also a good son, a good bro
ther, a good friend, a good husband, and a good
father of his family.
196. Any person who openly breaks through the
laws, or who without openly violating, eludes them
by cunning and artful and culpable subterfuges, is
an enemy to society, transgresses against the interests
of all, and renders himself unworthy of the public
beneyolence and esteem. SECTION IVi
Duties of the social Body.
197. Society secures to the individuals composing
the same, the enjoyment of their lives, liberties, and
properties, as well as all other natural rights ; and
in this consists the social guarantee resulting from
the united concurrence of the members of the body,
deposited in the national sovereignty.
198. Governments being instituted for the good
and common felicity of all persons, society is bound
to give aid to the indigent and unfortunate, as well
as instruction to all needful citizens.
199. In order to guard against every transgression
that may arise from the high powers confided to us,
we declare, that each and every one of the things con
stituted in the above declaration of rights, are exempt
and beyond the reach of the general power invested in
government, and being contained in, and founded on
the indistructible and sacred printiples of nature, every
t2

976
a elias que se expidapor la Legislatura federal, o por
las Provincias, sera absolutamente nida y de ningun
valor.

CAPITULO NONO,
Disposiciones generales.

200. Como la parte de ciudadanos que hasta hoy
Se ha denominado Indios, no ha conseguido el fruto
apreciable de algunas leyes que la monarquia Espa
nola dicto a, su favor, porque los encargados del go
bierno en estos paises tenian olvidada su execucion ;
y como las basas del sistema de gobierno que en esta
Constitucion ha adoptado Venezuela, no son otras
que la de la justicia y la igualdad, encarga muy
particularmente a, los Gobiernos provinciates, que
asi como han de aplicar sus fatigas y cuidados para
conseguir la ilustracion de todos los habitantes del
Estado, proporcionarles escuelas, academias, y cole-
gios en donde aprendan todos los que quieran los
principios de Religion, de la sana moral, de la po
litica, de las ciencias, y artes utiles y necesarias para
el sostenimiento y prosperidad de los pueblos, pro-
curen por todos los medics posibles atraher a los re-
feridos ciudadanos naturales a, estas casas de ilustracion
y ensenaifiza, hacer les comprehender la intima union

277
law contrary to the same which may be enacted by the
.Federal Legislature, or by the provinces, shall be ab~
solutely null and of no effect.

CHAP. IX.
General Dispositions.

1200. As that class of citizens, hitherto denominated
Indians, has not till now, reaped the advantage of
certain laws which the Spanish Monarchy dictated
in their favour, in consequence of the functionaries
of the government having forgotten their execution,
and as the basis of the system of goverment, whieh
Venezuela has adopted in this Constitution, is no
other than that of justice and equality, the provin
cial governments are hereby most particularly en
joined, that in like manner as they are to apply
their cares and endeavours, in order to obtain the in
struction of all the inhabitants of the State, to provide
for them schools, academies, and colleges, where all
may learn the principles of religion, of sound mo
rality, of policy, of science, and of the useful and
necessary arts, such as are conducive to the main-
tainance and prosperity of the people ; that they in
like manner endeavour by every possible means to
draw to the same houses of tuition, the said citizen-

278
que tienen con todos los demas ciudadanos, las con
siderations que como aquellos merecen del Go
bierno, y los derechos de que gozan por solo el hecho
de ser hombres iguales a. todos los de su especie^ a
fin de conseguir por este medio sacarlos del abati-
miento y rusticidad en que los ha man tenido el an-
tiguo estado de las cosas, y que no permanezcan por
mas tiempo aislados, y aun temerosos de tratar a los
demas hombres ; prohibiendo desde ahora, quepuedan
aplicarse involuntariamente a, prestar sus servicios a
los Tenientes, 6 Curas de sus parroquias, ni a, otra
persona alguna, y permitiendoles el reparto en pro
piedad de las tierras que les estaban concedidas y de
que estan en posesion, para que a proporcion entre;
los padres de familia de cada pueblo, las dividan y
dispongan de elias como verdaderos seiiores, segun
los terminos y reglamentos que formen los Gobiernos
provinciales.

201. Se revocan por consiguiente, y quedan sin
valor alguno las leyes que en el anterior' gobierno
concedieron ciertos tribunales, protectores., y privi-
legios de menor edad a. dichos naturales, las quales
dirigiendose al parecer a, protegerlos, les han perju-
dicado sobre manera, segun ha acreditado la ex
periencia.

279
natives, to cause them to comprehend the intimate
union by which they are bound to the rest of the
citizens, to teach them that they merit the same con
siderations from Government, to inculcate to them
the rights which they enjoy, by the simple act of
their being men equal to all others of the same kind ;
to the end, that by this means, they may be raised
from the abject and ignorant state in which they
have been kept by the ancient order of things, and
that they may no longer remain isolated and fearful
of dealing with other men ; it being hereby prohi
bited for them henceforward to be employed against
their own will, in the service of the curates of their
parishes, or of any other person ; they being also al
lowed to divide and lay out the grounds granted to
them, and of which they hold possession ; that the
same may be proportionably parcelled out amongst
the fathers of families of each town, for their own
uses and purposes, and in conformity to the regula
tions which may be established by the provincial Go
vernments. 201. Consequently, hereby are revoked, and ren
dered null and void,, all the laws which under the
former Government granted to the natives, certain
tribunals, protectors, and the privilege of their al
ways being considered as minors, which privileges,
though apparently directed to protect, have never
theless been extremely injurious to them, as expe*
vience has proved.

280
202. El comercio iniquo de negros prohibido por
decreto de la Junta Suprema de Caracas, eq 14 de
Agosto de 1810, queda solemne y constitucional-
mente abolido en todo el territorio de la union, sin
que puedau de modo alguno introducirse esclavos de
ninguna especie por via de especulacion mercantil.
203. Del mismo modo quedan revocadas y anu-
ladas en todas sus partes, las leyes antiguas que im-
ponian degradacion civil a una parte de la poblacion
libre de Venezuela, conocida hasta ahora baxo la de
nomination de pardos : estos quedan en posesion de
su estimation natural y civil, y restituidos a los im-
prescriptibles derechos que les corresponden como a
los demas ciudadanos. i-
204. Quedan extiiguidos todos los titulos conce-
didos por el anterior Gobierno, y ni el Congreso, ni
las Legislaturas provinciates podran conceder otro
alguno de nobleza, honores, 6 distinciones here-
ditarias, ni crear empleos, u oficio alguno, ci'yos
sueldos 6 emolumentos puedan durar mas tiempo que
el de la buena conducta de los que los sirvan.
205 Qualquiera persona que exerza algun empleo
de confianza u honor, baxo la autoridad del Estado,
no podra. aceptar regalo, titulo, 6 emoluments de
algun Rey, Principe, 6 Estado extrangero, sin el
consentimiento del Congreso.
206. El Presidente y miembros que fueren del
Executivo: los Senadores, los Representantes, los
militares y demas empleados civiles, antes de entrar

281
202. The vile traffic of slaves, prohibited by de
cree of the Supreme Junta of Caracas, on the 14th
of July 1810, is hereby solemnly and constitution
ally abolished in the whole territory of the Union,
without it being lawful in any manner to import
slaves of any kind, l for the purposes of mercantile^
speculation. 203. ,In the same manner are revoked and annulled,
in every sense, the ancient laws which imposed a civil
degradation on that part of the free population of
Venezuela, hitherto known under the denomination
bf persons of colour ; these shall all remain in the
possession of their natural and civil rank and be
restored to the imprescriptible rights belonging to
them, in like manner as the rest of the citizens.
204 All titles granted by the former goverments
are extinguished ; and neither Congress, nor the
Provincial Legislatures, shall grant any others, ei
ther, of nobility, honours, or hereditary distinctions •
nor create offices or places of any nature, whose
salaries or emoluments, last longer than the good
conduct of those who fill them.
205. Any person who may hold any office of con
fidence or honour, under the authority of the State,
shall not be allowed to accept any present, title, or'
emolument, from any king, prince, or foreign
power, without the consent of Congress.
206v The President and members of the Execu
tive, Senators and Representatives, the military, and
all civil functionaries, before they enter on the exer-

282
ien el exercicio de sus funciones, deberan prestar ju
ramento de fidelidad al Estado, de sostener y defen
der la Constitucion, de curnp'ir bien y fielmente los
deberes de sus oficios, y de proteger y conservar pura
e ilesa, en estos pueblos, la Religion catolica, apos
tolica, romana, que ellos profesan.
207. El Poder Executivo prestara el juramento en
manos del Presidente del Senado, a, presencia delas
dos Camaras ; y los Senadores y Representantes en
manos del Presidente en turno del Executivo, y a
presencia de los otros dos individuos que lo componen.
208. El Congreso determinara la formula del ju
ramento, y ante que personas deban prestarlo los.
demas oficiales y empleados de la Confederacion.
209. El Pueblo de cada Provincia tendra facultad
para revocar la nomination de sus Delegados en el
Congreso, 6 alguno de ellos en qualquiera tiempo del
aiio, y para enviar otros en lugar de los primeros,
por el que a. estos faltare al tiempo de la revocacion.
210. El medio de inquirir y saber la voluntad ge
neral de los Pueblos, sobre estas revocaciones, sera
del resorte exclusivo y peculiar de las Legislaturas
provinciales, segun lo. que pura ello establecieren
sus respectivas Cpngtituciones.
211- Se prohibe a todos los Ciudadanos asistir
con armas a las Congregaciones parroquiales y elec
torales que prescribe la Constitution, y a las re-
uniones pacificas de que habia el§. 182 y siguicnte,

233
cise of their functions, shall take oaths of fidelity to
the State, and swear to maintain and defend the Con
stitution, to fulfil well and faithfully the duties of
their offices, and to protect and preserve pure and
untouched in this country, the Catholic, Apostolic,
and Roman religion, which they themselves profess.
207. The Executive Power shall have the oath
administered by the President of the Senate, in pre
sence °f the two Houses; and the Senators and
Representatives, by the President for the time being
of the Executive, and in the presence ©f the other
two individuals composing the same.
208. Congress shall determine the form of the
oath, and by whom it is to be administered, to the
other officers and funtionaries of the Confederation.
209. The inhabitants of each province, shall be
allowed to revoke the nomination of their Delegates
to Congress, or any one of them, at any time of the
year, as well as to send there others, in place of the
first, for the time left them to serve.
2 i0- The means of ascertaining the general will of
the people, respecting these revocations, shall be
through the exclusive and peculiar channel of the pro
vincial Legislatures, and in conformity to what may
be established by their respective Constitutions.
211. It is prohibited for all citizens to assist at the
parochial and electoral meetings, prescribed by the
Constitution, with arms, as well as at the peaceable
meetings mentioned in article 182, and the following

284
baxo la pena de perder por diez anos el derecho de
yotar, y de concurrir a, elias.
212. Qualquiera que fuere legitimamente con-
vencido de haber comprado, 6 vendido sufragios en
las referidas Congregaciones, 6 de haber procurado
la eleccion de algun individuo con amenazas, intrigas,
artificios, u otro genero de seduccion, sera excluido
de las mismas Asambleas^ y del exoreicio de toda
funcion publica por espacio de veinte aiios ; y en
caso cle reincidencia, la exclusion sera perpetua,
publicandose una y otra eti ci districto del Partido
capitular, por una proclama de la Municipalidad
que circulara en los papeles publicos.
213 Ni los sufraganfes Parroquiales, ni. los Elec
tores capitularcs recibiran recompcnsa alguna del
Estado por concurrir a sus respectivas Congrega
ciones, y exercer en elias lo que previene la Consti
tution, aunque sea necesario a veces emplear algunos
dias para concluir lo que ocurriere.
214. Los Ciudadanos solo podran exercer sus de
rechos politicos en las Congregaciones parroquiales y
electorales, y en los casos y formas prescriptas por la
Constitucion. 215. Ningun individuo, 6 asociacion particular
podra hacer peticiones a, las autoridades constituidas
en nombre del Pueblo, ni menos abrogarse la califi
cacion de Pueblo Sobcrano ; y el ciudadano, 6 ciu
dadanos que contravinieren a este paragrafo, hollando

285
one, under the penalty of losing for fen years, the
right of voting, or assisting at the same.
212. Any person who may have been legally con
victed, of having purchased or sold votes, in the said
meetings, or of having obtained the election of any
person, by means of threats, intrigue, artifices, or
any kind of seduction, shall be excluded from the
said meetings, and from the exercise of all public
functions for the space of twenty years ; and in case
of the same occuring a second time, the exclusion
shall be for ever ; both being published throughout
the chief district, by means of a proclamation of the
municipality, which shall also circulate in the public
papers. 213. Neither the parish voters, or the district
electors, shall be allowed to receive any recompence
from the state, for attending these meetings, in order
to exercise therein what is prescribed by the Consti
tution; notwithstanding it may sometimes be neces
sary to expend some days to finish what may occur.
214. The citizens shall alone be allowed to exer
cise, their political rights in the parish and district
meetings, and in the cases and manner prescribed by
the Constitution.
215. No individual, or any particular society, shall
be allowed to lay petitions before the, constituted
authorities, in the name of the people; and much
less to arrogate to themselves the title of sovereign
people ; and the citizen or citizens, who may trans
gress against this article, by disregarding the respect

286
el respeto y veneraciOn debidas, a, la representacicn
y voz del Pueblo, que solo se expresa por la volun
tad general, 6 por el organo de sus Representantes
legitimos en las Legislaturas, seran perseguidts,
presos, y juzgados con arrCglo a las leyes.
216. Toda reunion de gente armada, baxo qual
quiera pretext© que se forme, si no emana de ordenes
de las autoridades constituidas, es uii atentadb contra
la seguridad publica, y debe dispersarse inmediata
mente por la fuerza; y toda reunion de gente sin
armas que nO tenga el mismo origen legitimo, se
disolvera. primero por ordenes verbales ; y siendo
nefcesario, se destruira, pOr las armas en caso de re-
sistencia, 6 de tenaz ©bstinacion.
217. Al Presidente y miembros del Poder Exe
cutivo, Senadores, Representantes, y demas emplea
dos por el Gobierno de la Confederacion, se abonaran
sus respectivos sueldos del tesoro comun de la union
218. No se extrahera de el cantidad algUna de
numerario en plata, oro, papel, u otra forma equi
valente, sino para los objetos, e inversiones orde-
nadas por la ley, y anualmente se publicara, por el
Congreso un estado, y cuenta regular de las entradas
y gastos de los fondos publicos, para conocimiento de
todos^ luegO que el Poder Executivo verifique lo
dispuesto en el§. 102.
219. Nunca se impondia, capitation, u otro im-
puesto directo sobre las personas de los Ciudadanos.*

28*7
and veneration due to the representation and voice
of the people, which can only be expressed by the
general will, or through the Organ of their legitimate
Representatives in the Legislatures, shall be prosecu
ted, taken into custody, and judged according to
the laws.
216. All assemblage of armed persons under what
soever pretext they may be collected, unless by the
authority of the constituted authorities, is an offence
against the public security, and is to be immediately
dispersed by means of force ; and all assemblage of
persons unarmed, which has not the same legal origin,
shall in the first instance be dissolved by verbal
orders, and if necessary, it shall be dispersed by force
of arms, in case of resistance, or great obstinacy.
217. The President and Members of the Executive
Power, as well as the Senators, Representatives,
and all other Functionaries of the Confederation,
shall receive their respective salaries OUt of the trea
sury of the union.
218. No quantity of money in silver, gold, paper,
or any other equivalent form, shall be taken out of
the same, excepting for the purposes and payments
ordained by law : and the Congress shall annually
publish a statement, and regular account of the re
ceipts and expenditure of the public m©nies, for the
information of all, as soon as the Executive has
carried into effect what is stipulated by article 102.
2 1 9. No capitation tax or any direct impost, shall
be levied on the persons of the citizens, but in confor-

288
sino en razon del numero de poblacion de cada Pro
vincia, segun lo indicaren los censos que el Congreso
dispondra, se executen cada cinco aiios, en toda la ex
tension del Estado.
220: No se dara preferentia a, los puertos de una
Provincia sobre los de otra, por reglamenfo alguno
de comercio, 6 de rentas, ni se cbncederan privi-
legios, 6 derechos exclusivos a, compafiias de comer
cio, 6 corporaciones industrials, ni se impondrart
otras limitacienes a. la libertad del comercio, y al ex-
ercicio ui la agricultura y de la industria, sino la*
que previene expresamente la. Constitucion.
221. Toda Ley prohibitiva sobre estos objetos^
quando las circunstancias la hagan necesaria, debera
estimarse por pura, y esencialmente provisional; y
para tener efecto por mas de un aiio, se debera reno-
var con formalidad al cabo de este periodo, repi;
tiendose lo mismo sucesivamente.
222. Mientras el Congreso no determinare un*
formula permanente de naturalizacion para los ex
trangeros, adquiriran estos el derecho de Ciudadanos,
y aptitud para votar, elegir, y tomar asiento en la
representacion nacional, si habiendo declarado su
intention de establecerse en el pais ante una Munici
palidad, hechose inscribir en el registro civil de ella,
y renunciado al derecho de ciudadano en su patria,
adquirieren un domicilio y residencia en el territorio

289
mity to the quantity of population contained in each
province, and according to the census which Con
gress will ordain to be taken every five years,
throughout the whole extent of the state.
220 No preference shall be given to the ports of
one province over those of another, either by any
regulations of trade or finance ; nor shall privileges
or exclusive rights be granted to trading companies ,
or societies of industry ; nor shall any restrictions be
laid on the freedom of trade, or on the pursuits of
agriculture and industry, excepting what are ex
pressly stipulated by the Constitution.
221. All prohibitive laws respecting similar mat
ters, whenever circumstances may render the same
necessary, shall be held as purely and essentially pro
visional ; and in order that the same may have effect
more than one year, it shall be requisite to renew
them with all the necessary formalities, at the end of
that period, and in like manner successively.
222. In the mean time that Congress has not
established a permanent form of naturalization for fo
reigners, the same shall obtain the right of citizens,
as well as the power of voting, electing, and taking a
seat in the house of the national Representatives,
if, having declared their intention to establish them
selves in the country before a municipality, and
caused their names to be inscribed on the civil re
gisters thereof, and having also renounced their
right of citizenship to their own country; they
have acquired the domiciliary rights and residence
v

290
del Estado, por el tiempo de siete anos, y llenaren
las demas condiciones prescriptas en la Constitucion,
para exercer las funciones referidas.
223. En todos los actos publicos se usara de la
Era Colombiana, y para evitar toda confusion en 10s
computus al comparar esta epoca con la Vulgar Cris
tiana, casi generalmente usada en todos los pueblos
cultos, comenzara aquella a contarse desde el dia
primero de Enero, del afio de N. S. mil ochocientos
once, que sera el primer© de nuestra Independencia.
224. El Congreso suplira Con provideneias opor-
tunas, a todas las partes de esta Constitucion que no
puedan ponerse en execucion inmediatamente, y de un
modo general, para evitar los per juicios e inconve-
nicntes que de otra suerte pudieran resultar al Estado
225. Ei que hallandose en una Provincia violare
bus leyes, sera, juzgado con arrcglo a elias por sus
Magistrados provinciales; pero si infringiese las de
la Union, lo sera conforme a. estas por los fun-
tionarios de la misma Confederacion ; y para que
no sea necesario que en todas partes haya Tribunales
de la Confederacion, ni que sean extrahidos de sus
vecindarios los individuos comprehendidos en estos
eases, el -Congreso determinara por ley, los Tri
bunales,, ;y la., forma -con que estos dar an comiriones

within -Hie State, during the period Of seven years,
and have besides fulfilled the other conditions prescri
bed by the Constitution, in order to exercise the
functions above stated.
223. In all public acts the Columbian Era shall
be used, and in order to avoid all mistakes in calcu
lations, in comparing this period with the common
Christian Era, generally used by civilized countries,
the former shall date from the first day of January
of the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred
and eleven, which shall be the first of our Indepen
dence. 224. Congress shall be authorized Dy means of
timely regulations, to provide for all parts of this
Constitution which cannot be immediately .carried
into execution, and in a general manner in order to
avoid the injuries and inconveniences which might
otherwise result to the State.
225. Any person who being in any province should
violate the laws, shall be judged in conformity
thereto, by its provincial magistrates ; but if he
should transgress against these of the union, he shall
be judged in conformity to the same, by the function
aries of the confederation ; aud in order that it may
not be necessary to have tribunals belonging to the
confederation in every place, and that the persons
comprehended in these cases may not be taken out of
their places of residence, Congress shall determine by
law the said tribunals, and the forms under whicfe ¦•-¦I
v ,2<

292
para examinar y juzgar las ocurrencias en las mismas
Provincias. 226. Nadie tendra en la Confederacion dc Vene
zuela otro titulo, ni tratamiento publico que el de
ciudadano, unica denomination de todos los hombres
Iibres que componen la Nacion ; pero a, las Camaras
representativas, al Poder Executivo, y a, la Suprema
Corte de Justicia se dara por todos los Ciudadanos,
el mismo tratamiento con la adicion de Honorable par;a
las primeras, Respetable para el segundo, y Recto para
la tercera.
227. La presente Constitucion, las leyes que en
Consequencia se expidan para executarla, y todos los
tratados que se concluyan baxo la autoridad del Go
bierno de la Union, seran la ley snprema del Estado
en toda la extension de la Confederacion; y las auto-
ridades y habitantes de las Provincias, estaran obli-
gados a. ob'edecerlas, y observaflas religiosamente sin
exciisa, ni pretexto alguno; pero las leyes que se
expedier'enijscipntra el tenor de ella, no tendran ningun
valor, . sinxf quando hubieren llenado las condiciones
requeridp.s para' una justa, y legitima revision, y

sanciom^

2;28, .Entretant© que se verifica la composition de
Un codigo civil y criminal, acordado por el Supremo
Congreso en 8 de_ Marzo ultimo, adaptable a, la
forma de Gobierno, establecido en Venezuela, se
declara en su fuerza y vigor, el codigo que hasta aqui

293
they shall issue commissions to examine and judge
all cases in the respective provinces.
226. No person within the Confederation of Ve
nezuela, shall enjoy any other title or address than
that of citize», the onI\ denomination of all the free
persons composing the nation ; tut the Houses of Re
presentatives, the Executive Power, and the sup;-. me
Court of Justice, by ail Citizens shall be addressed
under the same names, with the addition of Honour
able for the first, Respectable for the second, and
Upright for the third.
227. The present Constitution, the laws that in
confequence thereof may be enacted for its execution,
as well as all the treaties which, may be carried into
effect under the government of the union, shall be
held as the Supreme law of the State throughout the
whole extent of the Confederation; and the autho
rites and inhabitants of the provinces, shall be bound
to obey and religiously to observe the same, without
fail or pretext ; but the laws which may be enacted
in opposition thereto, shall be considered as with
out effect, unless they have passed through the
forms requisite for a just, and legal revisal and
sanction. 228. In the mean time, and till the for rr ation of
a civil and criminal code is carried into effect, as
decreed bytlieSupreme Congress on the 8th of March
ult. adapted to the form of government established
in Venezuela, it is hereby declared, that the code by

294
jios ha regido en todas las materias' y puntos que,
directa 6 indirectamente, no se opongan a lo esta
blecido en esta Constitution.
Y por quanto el Supremo Legislador del Universo
ha querido inspirar en nuestros corazones, la amistad
y union mas sinceras entre nosotros mismos, y con los
demas habitantes del Continente Colombiano, que
quieran asociarsenos para defender nuestra Religion,
nuestra Soberania natural, y nuestra- Independencia :
por tanto nqsotros, el referido Pueblo de Venezuela,
habiendo ordenado con entera libertad la Consti
tucion precedente que contienelas reglas, principios,
y objetos de nuestra Confederacion y alianza per-
petua, tomandando a la misma Divinidad por testigo
de la sinceridad de nuestras intencienes, e implorando
su poderoso auxilio para gozar por siempre las bendi-
ciones de la libertad, y de los imprescriptibles dere
chos que hemos merecido a su beneficencia generosa,
nos obligamos, y comprometemos a observar, y cum-
plir inviolablementc todas y cada una de las cosas que
en ella se comprehenden, desde que sea ratificada en
la forma que en la misma se previene ; protextando
sin embargo alterar, y mudar en qualquier tiempo
estas resoluciones, conforme a. la mayoria de los
Pueblos de Colombia que quieran reunirse en un
Cuerpo national para la defensa y conservation de su
libertad, e Independencia politica, modificandolas,
corrigiendolas, y acomodandolas oportunamente y a
pluralidad y de comun acuerdo entre nosotros mismos,

295
which we have hitherto been governed, shall retain
its due and full force and vigour in all the points and
matters which directly or indirectly may not be
opposed to what is established by this Constitution.
And whereas the Supreme Legislator of the uni
verse, has been pleased: to inspire into our heartg, the
most mutual and sincere friendship and union, as
well amongst ourselves, as with the rest of the inhabi
tants of the Columbian Continent, who may wish to
associate with us in order to defend our religion, our
natural sovereignity, and our independence ; therefore
We, tbe said people of Venezuela, having freely
ordained the preceding Constitution, containing
the regulations, principles, and objects of our Con
federation and perpetual alliance ; and calling upon
the same divinity to witness the sincerity of our in
tentions, and imploring his powerful aid to secure to
us for ever, the blessings of liberty, and the impres
criptible rights we have, from his generons benefi-
cense, obtained ; do mutually bind ourselves and
engage, to observe and inviolably to fulfil, all and
each of the things therein contained, from the time
the same is ratified in the manner stipulated therein j
protesting nevertheless, to alter, and at any time to
change these said resolutions, whenever, and in con
formity to the majority of tbe people of Columbia,
• united in a national body for the defence and preser
vation of their liberty, and political independence, the
same may be desired j modifying, correcting, and suit
ing the same opportunely according tea plurality, and

296
eri todo lo que tubiere relaciones direcfas con los
intereses generales de los referidos Pueblos, y fu6re
convenido por el organo de sus iegitimos Repre
sentantes reunidos en un Congreso general de la Co
lombia, 6 de alguna parte considerable de ella, y
sancionado por los comitentes ; constituyehdorios en-
tretanto en esta unio;i, todas y cada una de las Pro
vincias que concurrieron a formarla, garantes las
unas a las otras de la integridad de nuestros respec
tivos territories y derechos esenciales, con nuestras
vidas, nuestras fortunas, y nuestro honor ; y con-
fiamos, y recomendamos la inviolabilidad y conser-
yacion de esta Constitution a la fidelidad de los
Cuerpos Legislatives, de los Poderes Executivos,
Jueces, y Empleados de la Union y de las Provincias,
y a la vigilancia y virtudes de los padres de familia;
madres, esposas, y ciudadanos del Estado.
Dada en el Palacio Federal de Caracas, a veintiu'no
de Diciembre del aiio del Senor mil ochotientos once,
primero de nuestra Independencia.
Juan Toro, Presidente.
Is'idoro Ant. Lopez Mendez;
Juan Jose de Maya.
Nicolas de Castro.
Lino de Clemente.
Jose Maria Ramirez
Domingo de Alvarado.
Manuel Placido Maneyro,

297
our own common consent, in every thing which may
have a direct tendency to the general interests of the
said people, and as agreed upon through the organ
of their legal Representatives assembled in the gene
ral Congress of Columbia, or of any considerable
part thereof, anu sanctioned by its Constituents;' con
stituting ourselves in the mean time, in this union,
all and each one of the provinces concurring to form
the same, guarantees each one to the other, of the in
tegrity of our respective territories and essential rights,
with our lives, our fortunes, and our honour ; and
we confide and recommend the inviolability and con
servation of this Constitution to the fidelity of the
Legislative bodies, of the Executive powers, judges
and functionaries of the union, and of the provinces,
as well as to the vigilance and virtues of all fathers
of families, mothers, wives and citizens of the State.
Done in the Federal Palace of Caracas, this twen
ty-first day of December, in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and eleven, and the first of
our Independence. Juan Toro, President.
Isidoro Antonio Lopez Mendez.
Juan Joze de Maya.
Nicolas de Castro.
Line de Clemente.
Joze Maria Ramirez.
Domingo de Alvarado.
Manuel Placido Maneyro,

(L.S.)

298
Mariano de la Cova.
Francisco Xavier de Maiz.
Antonio Nicolas Br izeno.
Francisco X. Yanes.
Manuel Palacio.
Jose de Sata y Bussy.
Jose Ignacio Brizeno.
Jose Gabriel de A leal a.
Bartolome Blandin.
Francisco Policarpo Ortiz.
Martin Tovar.
Felipe Fermin Paul.
Jose Luis Cabrera.
Francisco Hernandez.
Francisco del Toro.
Jose Angel de Alamo.
Gabriel Perez de Pagola.
Francisco X. Ustariz.
Juan German Roscio.
Fernando Penalver.

Baxo lbs reparos que se expresan al pie de esta
acta n.° 2, fir mo esta Constitucion.
Frarjtcisco de Miranda, Yice-Presidente.

299
Mariano dela Cova.
Francisco Xavier de Maiz.
Antonio Nicolas Brizeno.
Francisco X. Yanes.
Manuel Palacio.
Joze de Sata y Bussy.
Joze Ignacio Brizeno.
Joze Gabriel de Alcala.
Bartolome Blandin.
Francisco Policarpo Ortiz.
Martin Tovar. .
Felipe Fermin Paul.
Joze Luis Cabrera.
Francisco Hernandez.
Francisco del Toro.
Joze Angel de Alamo.
Gabriel Perez de Pagola.
Francisco X. Ustariz.
Juan German Roscio.
Fernando Penalver.

(L.S.) Under the objections stated at the end of this act,
No. 2, I sign this Constitution.
Francisco de Miranda, Vice President.

300
Subscribo a, todo, menos al articirlo 180, reite-
rando mi protesta hecha en 5 del corriente.
Juan Nepomuceno Quinlana.

Subscribo a todo, menos al articulo 180 que
trata de abolir el fuero personal de los clerigos,
sobre el que he protextado solemnemente, lo que se
insertara a continuation de esta Constitucion.
Manuel Vicente de Maya.

Subscribo en los mismos terminos que el Sr. Maya,
acompafUndose la protexta que he entregado hoy.
Luis Jose Cazorla.

Subscribo a, toda la Constitucion, menos al capi-
tulo del fuero. Luis Jose de Rivas y Tovar.

Baxo mi protexta del acuerdo de diez y seis de
los cqrrientes. Salvador Delgado.

Subscribo a todo, excepto el desafuero.
Jose Vicente Unda.

301
I subscribe to the whole, with the exception of
article 180; renewing my protest madte on the 5th
Instant. Juan Nepomuceno Quintana-
I subscribe to the whole, with the exception of
article ISO, which relates to the abolition of the per
sonal immunity of the Clergy, respecting which I
have solemnly protested, which act is to be "inserted
at the end of this Constitution. Manuel Vicente Maya.
I subscribe, under the same exceptions, as Seiior
Maya, and under the accompanying protest delivered
this day. Luis Joze Cazorla.
I subscribe to the whole of the Constitution, with
the exception of the article respecting immunities.
Luis Joze de Rivasy Tovar.
Under my protest as made on the 16th instant,
Salvador Delgadd.
I subscribe to the whole, with the exception of
the article which annuls immunities. Joze Vicente. Unda.

302
Subscribe la presente Co,istif ucion, con exclusion
del articulo 180, y con arreglo a la protexta que
hice en 5 del corriente, y acompana la Constitucion .
y en los mismos terminos que corre la de Don Juan
Quitana. Luis Ignacio -Mendoza.
Subscribo a todo Io sancionado en esta Consti
tucion, a excepeion del capitulo que habia del fuero
eclesiastico, segun las protextas que he hecho en las
actas del dia 5 del presente. ,t >,."
Juan Antonio Diaz Argote.
Francisco Imardi, Secretario.

ALOCUCION.
Yenezolanos : Antes de cumplirse los dos primeros
aiios d# vuestra libertad, vais a fixar el destino de la
patria, pronunciando sobre la Constitucion que os
presentan vuestros Representantes.
Ni las revoluciones del otro hemisferio, ni las con-
tulsiones de los grandes imperios que lo dividen, ni
5 los interests opuestos de la politica Europea, han
venido & detener la marcba pacifica y moderada que
«mprendisteis el memorable 19 de Abril, de 3S10„

303
I subscribe to the present Constitution, with the
exception of article 180, and in conformity to my
protest made on the 5th instant, annexed to this Con
stitution, and in similar terms to those of Senor
Quintana. Luis Ignacio Mendoxa.
I subscribe to the whole of what is sanctioned in
this Constitution, excepting the article which treats
of the ecclesiastical immunity, and in conformity to
the protest made on the 5th instant.
Juan Antonio Diaz Argqte.
Francisco Isnardi, Secretary.

ADDRESS.
Inhabitants of Venezuela ! Two years have not
evolved since you became free, and you are already
about to fix the destiny of your country, by sanc
tioning the Constitution which your Representatives
lay before you.
Neither the revolutions of the other hemisphere,
rnar the convulsions of the great empires into which it
is divided, nor the clashing interests of European
policy, have obstructed the pacific and temperate ca«
jeer on which you entered, on the xoemorable 19th
of April 1810,

304
El inferos "general de la America, puesto en action
porvuesfro glorioso exemplo, el patriotismo guiado
por la filantropia, y la libertad ayudada de la jus
ticia, han sido los agentes que han dirigido \uestr-a
conducta para dar al mundo el primer exemplo de un
pueblo libre, sin los horrores de la anarquia, ni los
crimenes de las pasiones revolucionarias.
Eterno sera, en los fastos de la America, el corto
periodo en que habeis hecho lo que ha costado a. to
das las nationes epocas funestas de sangre y deso
lation ; y si la consternada Europa no tuviese que
admirar nada en vuestra Constitucion, confesara, al
menos, que son dignos de ella los que han sabido con-
seguirla sin devorarse, y sabran sancionarla con la
dignidad de hombres Iibres.
Llego el moment©, Venezolanos, en que tengais
un gobierno, que en la eXatitud de sus elementos
conteiiga la garantia de su duration, y asegure Con
ella, vuesfrauniOn y felicidad,
Tal fue el deber que impusisteis a vuestros '* man-
datarios el 2 de Marzo : a vosotros toca juzgar si lo
han curnplido; y a. ellos el aseguraros que sus fer-
vorosos deseos, su infatigable constahcia,y su buena
fe, es lo unico que puede hacerles esperar la apro-
bacion de unas tareas, emprendidas y consumadas solo
para vuestro bien.

o

05
The general interest of America, roused and brought
into action by your glorious example; patriotism
guided by philanthropy, and liberty aided by jus
tice, have been the agents which have directed your
conduct, and enabled you to exhibit to the world,
the first example of a nation, rendered free without
the horrors of anarchy, or the crimes of revoluti
onary passions.
Eternal in the annals of America, shall be that
"short period, in which you have accomplished what
has cost all other nations fatal ages of blood and de
solation; and if astonished Europe should find no
thing to admire in your Constitution, she will at
least acknowledge, that those are worthy of being
her own citizens, who have known how to obtain
it without self-destruction, and are ready to sanction
it with the dignity of freemen.
The period is at length arrived, Inhabitants of Ve
nezuela, when you are possessed of a government,
which, in the exact combination of its elements,
contains the guarantee of its duration, and with it
ensures your union and felicity.
Such was the duty you imposed on your consti
tuted Representatives, on the 2d of March ; to you
it now belongs to judge whether they have fulfilled
it, and to them it only remains to assure you, that
thejr warmest wishes, their indefatigable constancy,
and their good faith, are the only titles by which
they hope to see approved, so weighty a task, un
dertaken and completed solely for your good.
x

306
Patriolas del 19 de Abril, que habeis permanecido
incontrastables en los reveses de la fortuna, e inac-
cesibles a, los choques de las facciones. Guerreros
generosos, que habeis derramado vuestra sangre por
la patria : ciudadanos que amais el orden y la tran-
quilidad, aceptad como prenda de tantos bienes, el
gobierno que os ofrecen vuestros Representantes
El solo puede sefialandoos vuestros derechos y
vuestros deberes, proporcionaros la garantia social,
y con ella la libertad, la paz, la abundancia, y la
felicidad. Independencia politica, y felicidad social, fueron
vuestros votos el 5 de Julio de 1811 : independencia
politica y felicidad social, han sido los principios
que ban dirigido desde entonces a los que para llenar
el destino a. que los elevo vuestra confianza, han sa-
crificado su existencia a tan ardua como importante
empresa. ' Venezolanos : ciudadanos todos;, union y confianza
es lo unico que os pedimos en recompcnsa de los
desvelos y sacrificios que nos ha merecido vuestra
suerte : reunios todos en una sola familia por los in
tereses de una patria, y caiga un velo impenetrable
sobre todo lo que sea anterior a, la epoca augusta que
vais a establecer.
Siglos enteros de gloria han pasado para la Ame
rica, desde que resolvisteis ser Iibres, h% a que
conseguisteis serlo por medio de la Constitucion, sin
la qual aun no habiais expresado solemnemente al

307
Patriots of the 19th April, ye who have remained
firm under adversity, and invulnerable to the assaults
of factions ! Generous warriors, who have spilt your
blood for your country, and ye citizens, who love
order and tranquility, accept, as the pledge of your
future good, the government which your Represen
tatives now offer you.
It alone, -by pointing out to you your rights and
duties, can obtain for you social security, and with
it, liberty, peace, abundance, and felicity.
Political independence and social felicity, were
what you aspired to on the 5th of July 181 1 ; poli
tical independence and social felicity, have been the
principles, which, from that period, have directed
those, who, in order to fulfil the object to which
your cofidence raised them, have sacrificed their own
existence, to so arduous and important an undertaking.
Inhabitants of Venezuela, citizens all, union and
confidence is alone what we ask of you, in return
for the labour and sacrifices we have expended in
your behalf; unite all in one great family for the
good of your country, and let the veil of oblivion
be thrown over every thing, anterior to the august
era, on which you are about to enter.
Memorable in the annals of America will be that
period, which intervened from the time you resolved
to be free, till you became so, by virtue of the pre
sent Constitution ; without which you could not
have solemnly declared your intention to the world,
x2

308
mundo vuestra voluntad, ni el modo de Ilevarla a
efecto. El termino de la revolucion se acerca : apresuraos
a llegar a el por medio de la Constitucion que os
ofrecemos, si quereis sumir en la nada los proyectos
de nuestros enemigos, y apartar para siempre de
nosotros, los males que ellos nos han causado.
Pueblo soberano, oye la voz dc tas mandatarios,
el proyecto del contrato social que ellos te ofrecen,
fixe" sugerido solo por el deseo de tu felicidad : tu solo
debes sancionarlo : colocate antes entre lo pasado y
lo futuro : consulta tu intercs y tu gloiia, y la patria
quedara, salvada.
Palacio Federal de Venezuela, veintitres de: Di-
ciembre de mil ochocientos once, primer© de la
Independencia. <* ¦¦
Juan Toro, Presidente.
Francisco Isnardt, Secretfffio.

309
nor the means . by which they were to be accom
plished. The end bf the revolution is now at hand ; hasten
to reach it by means of the Constitution we offer
y©u, if you are desirous of frustrating the projects of
your enemies, and of for ever removing from you,
the ills which they have hitherto heaped upon us
Sovereign People ! listen to the voice of your
Representatives ; the social contract they now offer
you, was only dictated by a regard for your welfare ;
to you alone it belongs to sanction it ; reflect well on
what is gone by, and what is yet to come ; consult
your own interest, and your own glory, and our
s<country is safe.
Federal Palace of Venezuela, this 23d day of
•December, 1811, and first of our Independence.
Juan Toro, President.
Francisco Isnardy, Secretary.