Franco’s Spain: Blue Period, Autarky, and Cold War Isolation
Franco’s Blue Period (1939-1944)
The Blue Period, spanning from 1939 to 1944, marks the initial phase of Franco’s regime in Spain. This name reflects the period of maximum influence of the Falange, Franco’s political party. The Falange’s ideology drew inspiration from fascist movements in Italy and Germany, fostering closer ties with these nations.
Political System
Spain under Franco was a conservative military dictatorship. While incorporating some fascist elements, it did not fully embrace a fascist model. Franco held absolute authority as the “Caudillo,” and his decisions were unquestionable. His regime focused on suppressing any opposition and purging society of elements associated with the previous Republic.
Society
Spanish society during this time was characterized by fear and constant surveillance. The regime was dedicated to suppressing and punishing any individual or group with ties to the Republic. Repression was particularly harsh in Catalonia, Madrid, and Bilbao. The Salamanca File contains documents related to this repression, detailing the various punishments inflicted based on individuals’ actions.
Simultaneously, the regime aimed to mold a new citizenry through intellectual indoctrination.
Economy
The Spanish economy was devastated by the Civil War, burdened by debt, a lack of gold and silver reserves, and the outbreak of World War II. This led to a policy of autarky, an economic model advocating self-sufficiency. The National Institute of Industry (INI) and the National Institute of Colonization (INC) were established to produce essential goods. However, Spain did not recover to its pre-Civil War economic level of 1936 until the late 1950s.
Foreign Policy and World War II
Spain’s foreign policy during the Blue Period was heavily influenced by World War II. Initially, Spain adopted a neutral stance. In 1940, following Germany’s conquest of France, Hitler and Franco met to discuss Spain’s potential entry into the war on the side of the Axis powers. However, Franco’s demands were not met, and Spain remained neutral.
By 1944, as Germany’s fortunes declined, Franco began to shift his political line, marking the end of the Blue Period. Key changes included:
- Dismissal of Serrano Suñer, a prominent Falangist.
- Gradual removal of Falangist ministers.
- Withdrawal of the Blue Division from the USSR.
- Appointment of Jordana as a replacement for Serrano Suñer.
The Cold War and Isolation
The Cold War, an indirect conflict between the Soviet Union and capitalist countries, saw increased activity by resistance fighters attempting to reignite the Spanish Civil War. The United Nations passed a resolution isolating Spain, severing its relations with much of the world. This isolation further prolonged the effects of the war until 1952.
Organic Democracy
Franco initiated a superficial democratization process known as “Organic Democracy” to improve his international image. While appearing to open up the political system, the regime maintained its dictatorial nature. The Cortes (parliament) was re-established but remained purely advisory. Vertical unions were created, grouping workers and employers by trade, but these lacked genuine democratic function.
The “Fuero de los Españoles” (Charter of the Spanish People), enacted in 1946, served as a quasi-constitution, outlining the rights and duties of Spaniards. Franco also established a law of succession, hinting at a future monarchy, and concluded this “democratization” process with a referendum.