Economic and Political Landscape of Spain: 1939-1975
Economic Developments in Spain: 1939-1975
The economic evolution of Spain during this period can be divided into two main stages: the first, until the late 1950s, was characterized by stagnation and depression; the second, lasting until 1973, was marked by significant economic development.
The Autarkic Phase (1939-1959)
The Spanish Civil War had disastrous consequences for the Spanish economy, including a declining population, reduced agricultural production, the disappearance of gold and currency reserves, and a shattered transport network and energy shortages.
The government’s intervention in the economy consisted of regulating imports and exports, requiring permits for any economic activity, and fixing the value of the peseta above its market value. This made imports more expensive.
The state controlled the market, forcing producers to sell all their production at prices below market value. The state then sold these products to consumers at a fixed price. Many producers sold part of their products on the black market, where they obtained higher profits.
The results of this economic policy were, in the short term: food shortages accompanied by hunger and misery for many Spaniards, a black market involving corrupt officials who reaped great benefits, and rationing. Ration cards remained in use until 1951, and rationing of coal, electricity, and oil continued until the mid-1950s.
The Development Stage (1959-1975)
The Spanish economy grew at a phenomenal pace during this period, joining the small group of industrialized countries. This growth resulted from the expansionary phase dominant in more developed European nations and the consolidation of industrialization that began in the late 19th century. Without these two elements, the measures taken by technocratic governments to free the economy from 1959 onward would have yielded few results.
Repression and Opposition in Spain: 1939-1975
Repression continued after the war. Over 200,000 Spanish political prisoners were held, and 400,000 left Spain for fear of harsh reprisals. Most exiles fled to France, where they endured significant hardships, and to Latin America (Mexico, Chile, Argentina).
Repression included executions by firing squads in the walls of cemeteries and torture. It focused on those who had supported the Republic or did not show unconditional support for the new regime. Alongside military trials, civil proceedings were also established.
The 1940s
The maquis, or guerrillas, took to the hills after the war to continue their attacks on the regime. In 1944, with the support of the Communist Party of Spain (PCE), they attempted an invasion of Spain through the Valley of Aran from France but had to withdraw due to lack of support.
The PCE was the only party operating within the country and began to spread its influence in towns.
The 1950s
Repression decreased in the 1950s, and internal opposition began to organize. Mobilizations arose among university students and workers. In 1956, Catalonia and the Basque Country experienced significant unrest. In 1959, ETA was created as a splinter group from the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV).
The 1960s
The opposition gained strength. Student organizations opposed to the Franco regime emerged in universities. In the later years, the first mass demonstrations occurred.