Late Franco Regime (1969-1975): Changes, Opposition, and Culture
Late Franco Regime (1969-1975)
Elements of Change, Opposition, and Culture
A) Policy
During this period, the Franco regime maintained its fundamental ideas unchanged until Franco’s death. Franco sought to ensure the regime’s continuation by appointing Juan Carlos, Prince of Asturias, as his successor in 1969. This ended the aspirations of Juan de Borbón, who held the historical legitimacy of the monarchical succession. The early 1970s economic prosperity did not generate the expected accession to the regime; instead, it increased popular demands for democracy and freedom. Franco’s physical decline exacerbated the growing split between him and Spanish society, divided between reactionary Franco supporters and those favoring limited liberalization.
The opposition to Franco was very active, including student protests, Basque and Catalan nationalists, leftist parties (primarily PCE and PSOE), and terrorist groups. Terrorist actions increased dramatically. In the “Burgos Trials,” six ETA members were sentenced to death, sparking protests. Under pressure, Franco commuted the sentences. In 1973, a separate government was formed, with Carrero Blanco as President. His assassination by ETA in 1973 was a blow to the regime. Arias Navarro was elected as the new President, but his wavering policy of openness satisfied no one. Several events marked the last two years: the defense of the Basque language by the Bishop of Bilbao, the execution of anarchist Puig Antich, the 1974 Paris meeting of opposition groups, the emergence of the UMD (military democrats), the execution of five terrorists in 1975, and the appearance of GRAPO.
Morocco organized the “Green March” into the Spanish Sahara. The government responded weakly, and the territory was divided between Morocco and Mauritania in the 1975 Treaty of Madrid. After a long illness, Franco died on November 20, 1975.
B) Evolution of Mentalities
Franco attempted to impose conservative and traditional ideological and moral values, maintaining strict control over citizens’ private and public activities. The regime promoted strict Christian morality and monitored cultural, sexual, and entertainment activities. All cultural and recreational activities were subject to censorship. The patriarchal family model was promoted, with women holding limited rights. Education served as a means of political and religious indoctrination, with the Church playing a significant role.
From the 1960s, increased purchasing power influenced Spanish mentality. Households acquired appliances, car ownership increased, and women began rejecting their traditional roles, joining the workforce and the feminist movement. Spaniards began to have vacations, travel more, and interact with progressive-minded Europeans.
C) Culture
After the Civil War, many intellectuals, scientists, and professors were exiled, continuing their work abroad. Official culture extolled the regime’s values, glorifying certain historical periods, Catholic writers, classical art, and military exploits, while rejecting modernism, rationalism, the Enlightenment, and Marxist-influenced works. Some intellectuals continued their work in Spain despite difficulties. From the 1950s, novelists with political and social themes emerged. Notable figures appeared in art, film, and philosophy.