challenge: What was the outcome of the Fifth Battle of Maturín on 11 December 1814?
  
  A. The Royalist forces destroyed the last great Patriot garrison, leading to the epilogue of the Second Republic of Venezuela.
  B. The Royalist forces were defeated, and the Second Republic of Venezuela was established.
  C. The Patriot forces successfully defended the city against the Royalist forces.
  D. The battle was inconclusive, with neither side able to gain a decisive advantage.
  Answer: 