Francoist Spain: Economic and Social Transformations (1939-1975)
Francoist Spain: A Socioeconomic History (1939-1975)
The Post-War Era (1940s): Autarky and hardship
Following the victory of the Nationalist faction in the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), General Francisco Franco established a dictatorship in Spain. The post-war period (1940s) was characterized by autarkic economic policies, a system of self-sufficiency born from war devastation and international isolation. This led to widespread famine, alleviated only partially by rationing. A black market thrived, fueled by smuggled goods and requisitioned supplies. The immense bureaucracy, particularly focused on aiding war veterans, exacerbated the problems of hunger and destruction. The Instituto Nacional de Industria (INI) was created during this time, significantly influencing later industrialization. Severe housing shortages, especially in industrialized areas, resulted in the proliferation of shantytowns.
Socially, the early Franco years were marked by strict ideological and social control. Intellectuals who supported the Republicans faced persecution and punishment. Fundamental individual rights, such as freedom of assembly and association, were suppressed. The 1939 Political Responsibilities Act harshly impacted thousands, yet it also allowed many exiles and war veterans to return to Spain.
The Opening (1950s): Economic Liberalization
The 1950s, known as the “opening,” saw a shift away from autarky. Economic changes were central, with the 1951 Law on Economic Liberation aiming to resolve the economic crisis. This led to increased per capita income, greater electricity production, agricultural recovery, and higher consumption. However, inflation soared, causing social tensions and impacting foreign trade. Tourism and US aid helped to alleviate foreign exchange problems. The rise of “technocrats” from Opus Dei, a Catholic organization, within the government, marked a shift away from Falangist politicians.
Significant international recognition accompanied these economic changes. In 1953, Spain signed mutual defense and economic aid agreements with the United States (part of the waning Marshall Plan). The same year, the Concordat with the Vatican solidified the relationship between church and state. Spain’s admission to the United Nations in 1955 further cemented its place on the world stage.
Developmentalism (1960s): Economic Growth and Inequality
The 1960s, a period of developmentalism, brought changes across society. Three-year economic development plans were implemented, focusing on “development poles”—locations favored for industrial development, often cities that had supported the Nationalists. These measures resulted in impressive growth rates (close to 19%). Industrial growth increased the need for imported capital goods, financed by strong immigration and foreign investment. However, banks and large industrial groups were the primary beneficiaries of this economic boom, exacerbating existing inequalities.
Socially, the 1960s saw increased inequality, with personal enrichment for a minority alongside significant regional disparities. Industrialization concentrated in specific areas, attracting a large workforce with urgent housing needs. This fueled speculative urbanism and disproportionate coastal development. Tourism’s impact brought changes in lifestyle, customs, food, clothing, and beliefs. The expansion of Social Security, the 1970 Education Act, relaxed censorship, and the advent of television were also notable developments.
The End of an Era (1970s): Crisis and Transition
The 1970s marked the end of Franco’s regime and its developmental stage. The Matesa affair (a major economic scandal with political implications) and political polarization between openness and stagnation characterized this period. The governments of Carrero Blanco (assassinated by ETA) and Arias Navarro exemplified the latter. A severe economic crisis loomed as Franco’s death ushered in the Spanish transition from dictatorship to democracy, a period marked by Adolfo Suárez and King Juan Carlos I.