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This book explores the transformation of Venezuelan political culture as it evolved from a Spanish colony into an independent, liberal republic (1780-1850). The study uses two avenues of investigation into the tension between political reality and the Enlightenment-inspired ideals of the elite: honor and corruption. These two facets of social and political power illuminate colonial legacies prevalent after independence as well as those social norms that lacked legal sanction but still affected political structures--factors that resound throughout developing countries to this day. The analysis illuminates the evolving amalgamation of traditional and liberal norms found among the elites, women, and the poor. This study will add to Venezuelan and Latin American historiography, which is wanting in studies of legal and political culture during this transitional period, and will be relevant to scholars of contemporary countries that are developing democracy and capitalism.