Key events in Hugo Chavez's life: Feb. 4, 1992 — Army paratroop
commander Lt. Col. Chavez leads botched coup against President
Carlos Andres Perez. Faces possible 30-year prison term, but
case never goes to trial. Nov. 27, 1992 — Military officers with
close ties to Chavez make second coup attempt, which is quashed.
March 26, 1994 — After two years in jail awaiting trial, Chavez
and fellow plotters set free when President Rafael Caldera
dismisses charges on condition they retire from the military.
Dec. 13, 1994 — Chavez visits Cuba, where he has long talks with
President Fidel Castro and is honored with ceremony at
University of Havana. Dec. 6, 1998 — Wins come-from-behind
presidential election victory, promising to seek "third way"
between socialism and capitalism. Jan. 16, 1999 — Travels to
Cuba for private talks with Fidel Castro and Colombian President
Andres Pastrana on attempts to bring peace to Colombia. Feb. 2,
1999 — Hours after being sworn in, decrees referendum on whether
to rewrite constitution. A