Spain’s History: From Francoism to Democratic Rule
Franco’s Dictatorship in Spain
After the Nationalists won the Spanish Civil War, Franco established a dictatorship. He made himself the head of state and of the government, and Caudillo (leader) of Spain. He took complete control of the country’s politics, economy, religion, and laws.
The Pillars of Franco’s Regime
Franco’s dictatorship was based on three pillars: the military, the Catholic Church, and the Falange.
- The constitution was abolished, and there were no more democratic elections.
- Political parties became illegal.
- Trade unions also became illegal, and workers lost their rights.
- Freedom of the press was replaced by censorship.
- There was no regional autonomy. Power was concentrated in the central government.
Repression and Exile
Many people who opposed Franco left Spain. They went to live in the United Kingdom, France, and other countries. Republicans who stayed in Spain were often imprisoned or killed.
Hardship and Isolation in the 1940s and 1950s
In the 1940s and 1950s, living conditions were very hard. There wasn’t much food, and most people were very poor. Spain didn’t participate in the Second World War, but Franco supported Germany. After the war, the United Nations was established. Spain wasn’t allowed to be a member until later on because it was a dictatorship.
Economic Reforms and the Succession Plan in the 1960s
In the 1960s, there were economic reforms, and the economy started to improve. Living conditions improved too. Tourism started to become important. Franco named Juan Carlos de Borbón as his successor. The monarchy would be restored when Franco died.
The End of the Dictatorship in the 1970s
In the 1970s, Franco was old and ill. His supporters were divided; some wanted to continue as before, and others wanted reform. Admiral Carrero Blanco was Prime Minister. He wanted to continue the dictatorship without any reforms. However, he was killed by the Basque terrorist group ETA in 1973. In 1975, Franco died. Juan Carlos became King of Spain.
Spain’s Transition to Democracy
Today, Spain is a democracy. Every four years, there are elections to choose the government. People over 18 years old can vote for the political party that represents their opinions. The right to vote and other rights are guaranteed by the Constitution.
The Transition Process
After Juan Carlos became king in 1975, the transition to democracy began. The transition was completed in 1978 with a new constitution. During the transition, important reforms were introduced by the Prime Minister, Adolfo Suárez.
- All political parties were made legal.
- There was a democratic election in 1977.
- A new constitution was written.
- In 1978, people voted in favor of the constitution in a referendum, so it was adopted.
Spain’s Parliamentary Monarchy
Spain is a parliamentary monarchy. The monarch is head of state but doesn’t govern or make laws. Citizens vote for their representatives freely in elections. Spain recognizes regional autonomy. Citizens have rights and responsibilities. Everyone must obey the law. Government is separated into three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
Political Landscape Since the Transition
Since the transition to democracy, two parties have governed Spain at different times: the Socialist Party (PSOE) and the People’s Party (PP). In recent years, new parties have been formed, such as Podemos and Citizens.
The 1981 Coup Attempt
In 1981, there was an attempted military coup against the government led by Antonio Tejero. It failed. Spain continued to be a democracy.
Spain in the European Union
In 1986, Spain became a member of the European Economic Community (now called the European Union). Since then, Spanish people have been able to vote in elections to the European Parliament every five years.
Adoption of the Euro
Spain was one of the first 12 European countries to officially adopt the euro. On January 1, 2002, the euro replaced the peseta as Spain’s currency.