Spain’s Democratic Transition: 1975-1978
Spain’s Democratic Transition (1975-1978)
The transition from dictatorship to democracy in Spain, known as *The Transition*, was a difficult period spanning from 1975 to 1978. This passage from organic democracy to real democracy is characterized by the constitution of 1978. The Spanish transition was made possible by the following:
- Historical memory: The mistakes of the Second Republic and the sufferings of the dictatorship.
- International context: A favorable climate for the introduction of democracy in Spain.
- Internal support: Key sectors such as the monarchy, church, and banking.
The Beginning of the Transition
In 1975, there were three political options: continuity, rupture, and democratic reform. The transition was initiated from within the regime, driven by King Juan Carlos I, Adolfo Suárez, and Torcuato Fernández-Miranda.
Arias Navarro’s Government
On November 20, 1975, Franco died. On November 22, King Juan Carlos I was sworn in. In his speech, he expressed a desire for political openness. The first difficulty was changing the monarchy model, as the existing model was an authoritarian one. Initially, the king confirmed Arias Navarro as president. In January 1976, Navarro presented his reform of the courts, including a reform of the criminal code to legalize political parties and unions. However, it did not contemplate holding elections, autonomy, or a general amnesty. His loyalty to the former regime prevented him from going further.
The reaction of the monarchy was important. King Juan Carlos I made three key decisions:
- Appoint Torcuato Fernández-Miranda as President of the Court and Council of the Kingdom.
- Force the resignation of Arias Navarro.
- Elect Adolfo Suárez as Prime Minister.
Suárez’s Government and Political Reform
Suárez’s strategy was based on attracting most of the anti-Franco opposition to his reformist project. The Law on Political Reform encompassed all political reforms, dismantling the regime and establishing democratic law. This included the election of bicameral courts by universal suffrage. The preliminary draft was presented to the Council of Ministers and approved by the courts. The debate for the approval of the Law on Political Reform was difficult, as its approval meant political suicide, requiring a transition from a liberal national state to a democratic state. The opposition was not satisfied with the reform, forming the Democratic Coordination platform.
Challenges to Stability
From the beginning of the democratic process, several elements threatened political stability:
- Terrorism: From three factions: the extreme right (Guerrilleros de Cristo Rey and Fuerza Nueva), the extreme left (GRAPO), and the radical nationalist ETA.
- Social Conflict: Due to the 1973 crisis, which significantly impacted Spain, leading to strikes by CCOO, UGT, and USO.
- The Military: Opposed to the legalization of the PCE and the deepening of democracy, creating a coup threat, such as 23-F.
- Nationalism: Primarily Basque, Catalan, and Galician, seeking recognition of their distinct identities.
Legalization of the PCE
The legalization of the PCE was necessary for free and democratic general elections. Talks began in January 1977, and by decree of February 8, all parties were legalized, including the PCE, which had been the enemy of the former regime. It was officially legalized on April 9, with the PCE renouncing the republic as a form of state and supporting the monarchy of Juan Carlos I. Additionally, the Court of Public Order was abolished, the right to strike was regulated, and trade unions were legalized.