How did Francisco de Miranda become involved in Venezuela’s independence movement?

Francisco de Miranda, known as "the forerunner" of Simón Bolívar, developed his vision for the liberation of South America after fleeing to the United States in 1783, where he met leaders of the American Revolution.1

His involvement in Venezuela’s independence movement evolved through several stages:

• Early Planning: While in London, he sought support from British officials to liberate Spain’s American colonies and became a central figure for exiled plotters.1
• Initial Invasion: In 1806, he led an invasion of Venezuela using volunteers from the United States, though the effort failed when local support did not materialize.1
• Return and Leadership: In 1810, he met Bolívar in London. At Bolívar's urging, Miranda returned to Venezuela to serve as a general in the revolutionary army.1
• Dictatorship: Following the formal declaration of independence in 1811, Miranda assumed dictatorial powers.1

His leadership ended in 1812 after he signed an armistice with Spanish forces, an act viewed as treason by other revolutionaries, including Bolívar.1