One of the key leaders in the colonial struggle for independence in Latin America, Simon Bolivar (1783 1830), remains one of the region's most inspirational and influential figures to this day. Following his ultimate victory over the formidable forces of the Spanish Empire, he helped establish the first union of independent nations in Central/ South America, Gran Colombia (which included the territories of contemporary Peru, northern Brazil, Panama, Ecuador, Venezuela and Colombia), over which he presided from 1819 to 1830. Bookended by a foiled attempt on Bolivar's life in Bogota in 1828, THE LIBERATOR charts the story of the revolutionary leader's impassioned fight for independence from Spain and creation of a united South American nation, the great stories of love and loss in his life, the political intrigue and drama following his ascension to power and his mysterious death. Simon Bolmvar fought over 100 battles against the Spanish Empire in South America. He rode over 70,000 miles on horseback. His military campaigns covered twice the territory of Alexander the Great. His army never conquered - it liberated.