Britannica AI Icon

Christian Democratic Party

political party, Venezuela
Also known as: COPEI, Partido Social Cristiano, Social Christian Party(Show More)

Quick Summary

The Christian Democrats, also known as the Social Christian Party, are a moderate political party in Venezuela. Founded in 1946 by Luis Herrera Campins and Rafael Caldera Rodríguez, it became the second-largest political party in Venezuela after World War II, following the Democratic Action party.1

The party experienced periods of both government and opposition. Luis Herrera Campins served as president of Venezuela from 1979 to 1984, during which time the party faced economic challenges and was unable to control inflation or government expenditures effectively. In 1969, Rafael Caldera Rodríguez's inauguration marked the first peaceful transfer of power to an opposition party in Venezuela's history. The Christian Democrats have historically advocated for social reforms and development programs.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.