Political Transition in Spain (1975-1982)

Posted on Nov 1, 2024 in History

Principles of Political Transition (1975-1977)

Context

1973: The death of Carrero Blanco raised questions about the continuation of the Franco regime. After Franco’s death in 1975, Arias Navarro’s failed projects made it clear that continuing the regime would be impossible.

  • The system was based on Franco’s rule and the Organic Law of the State, which granted him absolute power. After his death, power was in the hands of the President and the Courts, but King Juan Carlos I aimed to adapt the system to a monarchy.
  • International economic crisis.
  • Lack of political forces supporting Franco.
  • Opposition to the regime grew stronger, demanding freedom and opposing any attempts to maintain a dictatorship, even through modest reforms.

The First Government of Carlos Arias Navarro (January 1974 – November 1975)

Carlos Arias Navarro announced a series of measures for a political opening, known as the “Spirit of 12 February.” However, these were only minor changes:

  • Municipal level: The law of November 19, 1975, aimed to facilitate the electoral process, but mayors of major cities like Madrid and Barcelona were still appointed by the government.
  • Deputies were elected democratically.
  • Freedom of association and union freedom were not granted.

Disagreements and Repression

  • Reformist members of Arias Navarro’s government considered the changes insufficient and resigned.
  • The “Búnker,” a sector of the Francoist Movement, opposed any reforms.
  • The opposition intensified its fight against the regime.
  • Political repression: The regime continued its violent repression, executing five anti-Franco activists in September 1975 and cracking down on political demands.

The Second Government of Carlos Arias Navarro (November 1975 – July 1976)

King Juan Carlos I was proclaimed King on November 22, 1975, and Arias Navarro continued as President. However, his loyalty to the Franco regime and resistance to change made him an obstacle to reform. Reformist figures entered the government, but internal opposition remained strong.

  • The King appointed Torcuato Fernández-Miranda, a trusted advisor, to reform the Courts.
  • Unable to directly remove Arias Navarro, the King pressured him to resign, which he eventually did in July 1976.

Reform from the Top and Negotiation with the Opposition

Adolfo Suárez’s Government (July 1976 – June 1977)

Adolfo Suárez, a former Francoist minister, was appointed President. Initially seen as a continuist, he surprised many by initiating a process of negotiation and reform.

  • Political Reform Act: Suárez negotiated with the opposition to achieve a legal reform that would transition Spain to a democracy. This included amnesty for political prisoners, the appointment of General Gutiérrez Mellado as Vice President to appease the military, and the approval of the Political Reform Act through a referendum on December 15, 1976.
  • New Parliament: The Cortes became bicameral, with a Congress elected through closed lists and a Senate elected through open lists.
  • Legalization of Political Parties: Over 150 parties were legalized, including the Communist Party of Spain (PCE) after negotiations.
  • Other Measures:
    • The Court of Public Order (TOP) was abolished.
    • The Associations Law was passed, allowing the legalization of various organizations.
    • Amnesty terms were broadened, releasing most political prisoners.
    • The Republican flag was legalized.
    • Some regional institutions were provisionally restored (e.g., Generalitat of Catalonia).

General Election of June 1977

Following these reforms, the first democratic general elections were held in June 1977, marking a crucial step in Spain’s transition to democracy.