[jalisco555]

By 1989 I was referring to the year that the Eastern European communist dictatorships were overthrown one by one by people who had lost their fear. I have a feeling that this year might see a similar phenomenon as dictatorships in Iran, North Korea and elsewhere might be overthrown by popular uprisings. Wishful thinking perhaps but Venezuela might be the spark.

And to respond to an obvious question, I know that Chavez was elected (after he failed to take power in a coup in the early 90's). However, he quickly made it clear that he intended to become "president-for-life" on the model of Castro.

[A. Pole]

And to respond to an obvious question, I know that Chavez was elected (after he failed to take power in a coup in the early 90's). However, he quickly made it clear that he intended to become "president-for-life" on the model of Castro.

Did he? Proofs please. And did the Congress also intend to be congress-for-life? And Supreme Court? Or was Chaves unconvenient to the foreign interests?

[A. Pole]

I have a feeling that this year might see a similar phenomenon as dictatorships in Iran, North Korea and elsewhere might be overthrown by popular uprisings. Wishful thinking perhaps but Venezuela might be the spark.

The popular uprising in Iran already took place. It was when the shah was overthrown. And the "democratic" (big oil) coup is not finished yet! See the Chavez loyalists take hold in Caracas thread.