A generation ago, Hugo Chávez rose to power in Venezuela with a promise of inclusive democracy and power to the people. However, his successor, Nicolás Maduro, now governs an authoritarian regime, accused of electoral fraud and human rights abuses. Venezuela, once prosperous, has suffered from economic crisis and mass emigration. The country's downfall can be traced back to a shift from a flawed democracy to a "crony democracy," leading to widespread discontent. Chávez's populist measures and consolidation of power undermined the state, and his successor Maduro faced economic challenges and a loss of popular support. The nation now faces dictatorship, economic collapse, and widespread corruption, marking a stark departure from the original socialist ideals.