Hugo Chávez was a Venezuelan politician who served as the President of Venezuela from 1999 until his death in 2013.
Chávez was a controversial figure who was known for his socialist policies and his criticism of the United States. During his presidency, he implemented a number of social welfare programs and nationalized several industries, including oil production.
In 2011, Chávez was diagnosed with cancer and began receiving treatment in Cuba. He was re-elected as president in 2012 but his health continued to deteriorate. In March 2013, he returned to Venezuela after receiving medical treatment in Cuba, but he remained out of public view and was not seen in public again.
On March 5, 2013, Chávez died in Caracas at the age of 58. His death was attributed to complications from his cancer. Chávez was succeeded as president by his Vice President, Nicolás Maduro, who continues to hold the office as of 2023.