Leoni, Rául (1905–1972)

Venezuelan politician and president 1964–69. His administration was relatively uneventful, although some guerrilla activity required government action. The wealth generated by the oil industry at this period assisted considerably in the generation of economic growth and development.

Leoni was a member of the ruling Accíon Democrática party (AD; Democratic Action Party). The lack of an outright constitutional majority during the1964 elections meant that his government formed a coalition.

Leoni was fortunate politically, as he came to office at a time when the national economy was vibrant and politically stable. With the retirement of president Romulo Betancourt from office, the nation had just experienced, for the first time in a century, an extended period of relative stability and democratic rule.