Associated press file

Hugo Chavez spoke at a press conference in Caracas in October 2012, flanked by a portrait of independence hero Simon Bolivar.

AFP/Getty Images file

Chavez smiled during a visit by the Russian foreign minister to Caracas in August 2011.

Associated press file

Chavez waved to supporters during a 2002 march in Caracas commemorating the anniversary of Venezuelan democracy.

associated press file

Chavez held a copy of his nation’s constitution during a visit to a refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 2001.

Associated press file

Chavez saluted militia members at a 2010 ceremony in Caracas to mark the eighth anniversary of his return to power after a brief coup.

Associated press file

Chavez, right, walked with Saddam Hussein during a visit to Iraq in 2000.