The Franco Regime and Spain’s International Relations
UN Resolution on Relations with Spain (December 12, 1946)
Type of Text
This document is a political commentary expressing condemnation of the Franco regime. It is a primary source from December 12, 1946, the same year the resolution was created. The title of this piece is the UN Resolution on Relations with Spain.
Aim
The aim of the resolution was to recognize the fascist and non-representative nature of the Franco regime, thus preventing Spain’s admission to the UN. The UN, formed after World War II, aimed to promote equal living standards and peace among nations and their citizens.
Audience
The resolution was addressed to UN member countries, particularly Spain, to explain the reasons for denying the Franco regime entry into the organization.
Text Analysis
The resolution can be divided into several paragraphs, each presenting distinct ideas:
- The main idea is the rationale for the Assembly’s rejection of the Franco regime, citing its fascist nature and suppression of freedoms such as expression, religion, and assembly.
- Another important point is the Assembly’s acknowledgment of Franco’s support for Hitler and Mussolini during the war, despite ongoing disputes.
- The resolution also suggests alternative approaches to dealing with a regime like Franco’s.
Article 6 of the Organic Law of the State (January 10, 1967)
Type of Text
This text is a legal and public policy commentary. The article aims to consolidate previous laws and outline the fundamental principles of the authoritarian system. It is a primary source from January 10, 1967, the year the article was created. The title is Article 6 of the Organic Law of the State.
Aim
The article’s purpose was to define the Head of State’s role within the nation. The Head of State represents the country in international relations, appoints and receives diplomatic missions, etc.
Audience
The document is primarily intended for Spanish citizens and represents the final stage of institutionalizing the Franco regime that emerged from the Civil War.
Text Analysis
The document outlines the regime’s ideology and the powers of the Head of State, who embodies the highest representation of the state and effectively holds national sovereignty. It clarifies the Head of State’s roles and responsibilities. The concentration of power is evident, solidifying the political framework imposed by General Franco. This article aims to unify existing laws while upholding the authoritarian system’s core principles.
The Franco Dictatorship (1959-1975)
Background
Post-war Spain under Franco’s ideology rested on three pillars: the Church, the Falange, and the Army. The regime exerted total control over the media, using propaganda to influence various aspects of Spanish life.
Political Issues
In the 1950s, the regime’s policies began to shift. From 1957, technocrats, including members of Opus Dei, were appointed as ministers. However, this change did not alter the dictatorial and undemocratic nature of the regime, only its policies. Key features of this period include:
- Government of Opus Dei Technocrats: Their objective was to liberalize the economy by integrating it into the capital market. They were not ideologues but rather technicians focused on economic progress.
- Organic Law of the State (1967): This was the final fundamental law, intended as a summary and a form of constitution, despite being adopted through non-democratic means and approved by 85.5% in a national referendum.
- Laws of Succession to the Head of State (1947-1969): These laws declared Spain a kingdom. In 1969, Juan Carlos de Borbón swore allegiance to the principles of the Movement.
Economics
During this period of technocracy and development, the Spanish economy underwent a transformation. The main economic activities were:
- Stabilization Plan: This plan marked the end of autarky and involved securing loans from various sources. In return, the Franco government committed to opening the Spanish economy. The plan promoted industrialization and economic integration.
- Three Development Plans: These plans had two main objectives: to address structural deficiencies and create development poles to reduce economic imbalances.
- Industrial Development and its Impact: Industry and services experienced significant growth, leading to a substantial rural exodus. This period saw a “Spanish economic miracle” fueled by tourism revenue, foreign investment, and remittances, primarily benefiting banks and large industrial groups.
Social and Cultural Aspects
This period was characterized by:
- Labor Surplus, Migration, and Urbanization: Labor surplus and unemployment, driven by increased mechanization, resulted in internal migration (rural exodus) and emigration to other European countries. This led to a growing urban population, an expanding industrial workforce, and the rise of the middle class, along with new social and cultural behaviors.
Opposition to Franco
In the 1960s, social changes fueled the growth of anti-Franco sentiment:
- The New Labor Movement: The UGT and CCOO infiltrated official trade unions, while the CNT disappeared. The PCE and PSOE continued to operate alongside other progressive parties.
- Student Activism: Student organizations emerged, particularly following the collusion of the regime with Munich University. There were large-scale demonstrations and labor unrest.
Crisis and End of the Regime
These changes were not accompanied by political reforms. The regime’s final crisis was exacerbated by the assassination of Luis Carrero Blanco. From this point, two factions emerged: hardliners and reformists. One significant event was the call for a democratic transition. Spain’s international standing also faltered, and in November, the Madrid Agreement was signed. Franco died on November 20, 1975.