Francoism in Spain: Politics, Economy, and Society (1959-1975)
Francoism in Spain (1959-1975)
In the early 1950s, Franco, having initially liberalized the economy, found himself unable to carry out his plan of autarky. This situation propelled Spain towards modernization. However, the regime’s core principles and behavior remained unchanged.
Political Aspects
Political Transformations: In the 1960s, Franco’s power was divided between two political factions:
- Opus Dei Technocrats: Supported by Carrero Blanco, they managed to liberalize the economy while maintaining the regime’s authoritarian principles.
- The Reformist Movement: Led by figures like Manuel Fraga (founder of the PP), this group sought to introduce political reforms.
Key reforms included the Press Law, the Law of Religious Freedom, the Law of Collective Bargaining (which still banned strikes), the Organic Law of the State, and the 1969 Succession Law. This last law appointed Don Juan Carlos as Franco’s successor, aiming to ensure the regime’s continuation. The Court of Public Order (TOP) was created in 1963.
The Democratic Opposition
The intense repression of the 1940s and 50s had minimized opposition parties. However, after 1960, reforms, tourism, and other factors led to increased opposition. In 1962, a meeting of opposition groups in Munich demanded democratization, leading to exiles and persecution upon their return to Spain.
That same year saw waves of strikes in Asturias, Catalonia, and the Basque Country, and the formation of the illegal workers’ union Comisiones Obreras (CC.OO). The student movement grew significantly, and the Basque armed organization ETA was formed in 1969. The Communist Party of Spain (PCE) also played a leading role in the fight for democracy.
Internal Divisions and Instability
The regime’s primary concern was its continuation after Franco’s death, given his advanced age. Internal divisions within the Francoist regime intensified, and public demonstrations became more frequent. The Church began to withdraw its support. ETA’s actions were constant, and the Burgos Trial, with its death sentences for terrorists, triggered national and international protests.
In 1973, Carrero Blanco was named President, but his government was marked by repression and torture. Six months later, ETA assassinated him, increasing political instability as he was seen as the guarantor of unity within the regime.
Economics
Economic Development (1959-1973): After abandoning autarkic policies, the Stabilization Plan was implemented. In the 1960s, Spain experienced significant economic growth. Factors contributing to this development included:
- Liberalization of the Spanish economy.
- Inflow of capital into industries like chemicals and automotive.
- Tourism development, leading to a significant influx of foreign currency.
- Remittances sent by immigrant workers abroad to their families.
- Internal migration to industrial and coastal zones.
- Public investment in depressed sectors.
However, in 1973, a major global crisis began due to the drastic rise in oil prices.
Social Aspects
Social Transformations: The Stabilization Plan led to changes in social structure. Spain experienced a substantial population increase. The country became more urban, with 70% of the population living in cities by 1970, leading to urban sprawl. There was also a growing educated population due to increased state investment in education.
The End of the Dictatorship (1973-1975)
In 1974, the Democratic Junta was formed, composed of organizations like the PCE (led by Santiago Carrillo), PSP (Galván), worker groups, and unions like CC.OO. The PSOE, in turn, organized the Democratic Convergence Platform in 1975, which also included the UGT and the PNV, among others.
The final months of Franco’s rule were characterized by strong repression, including military enforcement against FRAP (Revolutionary Anti-Fascist Front) and ETA. Taking advantage of the chaotic situation, Hassan II of Morocco organized the Green March to occupy the Sahara, and he was successful.
Finally, on November 20, 1975, after a long period of declining health, Franco died, ending a nearly 40-year dictatorship.