Analysis of the Spanish Constitution and European Integration
The Spanish Constitution is a legal-political text and therefore a historical source. Its authors were the fathers of the constitution, including José Pedro Pérez Llorca, Miguel Herrero y Rodríguez de Miñón, and Gabriel Cisneros, members of the UCD (Union of the Democratic Centre). The recipients of this document are the entire Spanish society, and the constitution articulates the new political scheme of the Spanish state.
The text comprises articles that outline key aspects of the new political system. Sections 1 and 2 present the doctrine, drawing on principles of a democratic and social state under the rule of law. Article 1.1 establishes a social and democratic state under the rule of law, meaning the submission of state power to guarantee individual freedom. It also requires public authorities to develop activities aimed at achieving material equality. Article 1.2 recognizes the national sovereignty of the Spanish people, returning sovereignty to them. Particular emphasis is placed on matters relating to the form of state. The indissolubility of Spain is clearly stated.
Articles 6 and 16 provide for the recognition of political pluralism and the separation of church and state. The Constitution of 1978 resulted from a broad consensus between political forces, addressing the need to provide the country with a constitutional text that articulates the peaceful coexistence of the Spanish people. The form of state marked an important starting point for the constitutional path. The Spanish Constitution is a core document in Spanish society, transforming the political framework inherited from the Franco regime and promoting reconciliation among the Spanish people. It marked the path of progress. In conclusion, the 1978 Constitution laid the foundations for a democratic development of the democratic plural form in power, marking the longest period of democratic stability and economic development in Spanish history. It is a constitutional text agreed upon by an overwhelming majority of Spanish society.
Integration in Europe
This is a political-historiographical text by Professor Sánchez Marroyo, author of numerous books on history, intended for the general public. The author provides the keys to the process that culminates in the signing of the accession agreement, which determines the start of a process of political and economic adaptation.
The EEC (European Economic Community) was born with the signing of the Treaty of Rome, with the objective of creating a space for the free movement of capital, goods, and workers. Spain’s addition to the structure of the union ends the age-old isolation of the country. Traditional Spanish economic protectionism gives way to an outward-looking economy.
The document accounts for the entry into force of the Act, which creates a single economic market. This transformation gives rise to a period of adaptation for the economic sectors of the country to the single market structures. Jacques Delors, a French socialist, not only promoted the economic and monetary union but also proposed the adoption of a social charter to ensure minimum social standards. The consequences of accession to the EU were beneficial to the political system, and the proposed adjustments stimulated economic growth, representing adherence to the nationalist path via Spanish capitalism.
Integration in Europe brought many benefits to Spain, necessitating major structural reforms. Integration has also benefited from funds that have helped modernize vocational training, improve infrastructure, and increase productivity. Benefits tend to diminish as Spain reaches the average income level of the union. The political transition process in Spain within the European communities, resolved during the Franco regime, aimed for integration into Europe, resulting in the strengthening and international recognition for young Spanish democracy. It was a historic milestone in the political transition from a totalitarian system to one based on liberties.