Decree of Unification: Analysis of Franco’s 1937 Proclamation
Decree of Unification (1937)
Historical Context
This decree, a legal document from 1937, centers on the political landscape during the Spanish Civil War. Authored by General Francisco Franco, Head of State and Government, it was issued in Salamanca on April 20, 1937, and published in the Official State Gazette. The decree’s primary objective was the creation of a single party, the FET de las JONS (Falange Española Tradicionalista y de las JONS), merging the Falange and Carlist factions to consolidate the Nationalist side and quell internal disputes.
Key Ideas
- Need for Political Action: The decree emphasizes the importance of political organization in the post-war state, envisioning a totalitarian regime inspired by Italian fascism, termed National Syndicalism. This regime aimed to unite Spaniards under a single leader.
- Party Unification: Franco mandates the unification of the Falange, the Carlists (Requetés), and other armed militias, highlighting his role as the initiator and intermediary between the state and society.
- Party Organization: The decree outlines the structure of the new party, prioritizing Falangists for administrative roles.
- National Militia: The decree establishes the National Militia, merging existing militias under Franco’s leadership, with the Army serving as support.
Historical Analysis
The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) forms the backdrop of this decree. This conflict, a clash between liberalism/socialism and the rising authoritarian/fascist ideologies in Europe, tragically ended the Second Republic’s modernization efforts. The war’s aftermath saw the establishment of Franco’s long-lasting dictatorship, initiated by a military coup. The National Defense Board, initially led by Mola, implemented policies of counter-revolution and repression. Franco’s rise to Generalissimo and Head of Government between September and November 1936, followed by the formation of the State Technical Board, marked the culmination of the political unification process.
Second Republic Education
Educational Reforms
Following the 1931 Constitution, the Second Republic, particularly during the 1931-1933 biennium under Azaña, embarked on significant educational reforms. Influenced by the Free Institution of Teaching, led by Fernando de los Ríos (Minister of Public Education), these reforms aimed to create a unified, public, free, and secular education system, at least at the primary level. Coeducation was introduced, and education was recognized as a fundamental right. Religious education by private associations was prohibited.
Despite limited resources, the Republic invested in teacher training, school construction, and scholarships. Educational missions played a crucial role, bringing cultural experiences to rural areas through theater, music, museums, cinema, and practical instruction in health and agriculture. Books were distributed to schools and communities.
Role of Teachers
Teachers played a vital role in disseminating the Republic’s ideals, serving as advisors and mentors to both children and adults.