Francisco de Miranda was a Venezuelan military leader and revolutionary who played a crucial role in the early movements for independence in Latin America. Born on March 28, 1750, in Caracas, he was educated in Europe and became influenced by the ideas of the Enlightenment. Miranda is often considered a precursor to the independence movements that would later be led by figures like Simón Bolívar. Throughout his life, Miranda sought to liberate Spanish colonies in South America from colonial rule. He organized several military campaigns and was involved in the establishment of the first Venezuelan Republic in 1810. Despite his efforts, he faced challenges and was eventually captured and imprisoned by the Spanish. Miranda died on July 14, 1816, but his legacy as a champion of freedom endures.