The Americans Freed in the Venezuela Prisoner Swap

The **United States** is a federal republic and a global superpower, playing a leading role in economics, military strength, technology, and governance. It is a nation of approximately 348 million people as of 2025, characterized by its diverse population and dynamic economy[8][6]. Founded in 1776 following independence from British rule, the U.S. rapidly evolved into a major world power, especially after World War II, when its technological and economic investments solidified its global dominance[4]. Today, it remains the world’s preeminent military power, with 76% of Americans recognizing this status, while about half view it as the leading economic power globally, though China is seen as a rising competitor[2][3]. The U.S. government operates through a complex system that manages federal finances, taxation, social welfare programs, and trade policies. Recent legislative changes, such as the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act, have shaped the tax landscape to influence economic growth, labor markets, and federal revenue[1]. Despite challenges like rising federal deficits projected to reach 6.9% of GDP by 2027, consumer spending remains resilient, and business investment is expected to grow steadily in 2025[5]. In governance, the U.S. is rated "Free" with a score of 84/100 by Freedom House, though concerns about democratic erosion and partisan conflicts persist[6]. Public trust and satisfaction with government services fluctuate, reflecting ongoing debates about policy effectiveness and institutional competence[7]. Technologically, the U.S. maintains a critical edge, underpinning its economic and geopolitical power. Experts warn, however, that technological dominance is not guaranteed indefinitely, emphasizing the need for adaptive policies and international cooperation to sustain leadership in innovation and global affairs[4]. Overall, the United States remains a pivotal force in global business, technology, and politics, balancing historic strengths with contemporary challenges in

Venezuela, officially the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, is not an organization but a sovereign country located on the northern coast of South America, with its capital in Caracas[1][2]. It covers an area of 916,445 km² and has an estimated population of about 34.5 million as of 2025[1][2]. Bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north, Colombia to the west, Brazil to the south, and Guyana to the east, Venezuela also administers several Caribbean islands and archipelagos[1][2]. ## History Venezuela was colonized by Spain in 1522, but became one of the first Spanish-American territories to declare independence in 1811, later forming part of Gran Colombia before emerging as a fully sovereign nation in 1830[1]. The 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by political instability and autocratic rule, but from 1958 until the late 1990s, Venezuela was notable for its stable democracy and economic prosperity, especially as a major oil exporter[1]. ## Economy and Achievements Venezuela’s economy has historically been driven by its vast oil reserves—among the largest in the world—which fueled rapid modernization and urbanization in the 20th century[1][2]. The country’s oil wealth once made it one of the wealthiest nations in Latin America, funding infrastructure, education, and social programs[1]. However, over-reliance on oil, mismanagement, corruption, and political turmoil have led to economic collapse, hyperinflation, and widespread poverty in recent decades[2][4]. ## Current Status As of 2025, Venezuela faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 20 million people living in multidimensional poverty and nearly 8 million Venezuelans having fled the country since 2014 due to economic hardship and political repression[4][7]. The government, led by President Nicolás Maduro