Principles of the National Movement: A Guide to Spanish Culture and Society
Culture
Culture is not just about recognizing wisdom, even among the uneducated. It involves knowledge and training that empowers individuals to serve their community. An educated person is characterized by knowledge, empathy, and willingness to act.
Demófilo and the Democrats
Demófilo are those who love the people. Democrats advocate for governance by the people, but one can be a Demófilo and still believe that the people are not ready to govern. Governing a nation requires specialized knowledge acquired through study and experience. Therefore, entrusting the responsibility of running a state to an unprepared populace is illogical.
The Nation
This pamphlet exalts the Spanish nation as an exemplary role model, highlighting its contributions to art, philosophy, and other fields. It emphasizes the ideal of being Spanish and Catholic.
The Family
We envision an ideal family model where all members are united under the guidance of a head of household. Children should always respect their parents. A Christian marriage is the foundation of a strong family. Family unity strengthens the nation.
Organization
Social organization relies on harmonious relationships and cooperation. Each individual must fulfill their role diligently to ensure the smooth functioning of the Spanish economy.
Discipline
Maintaining order in society requires a hierarchical structure where some govern and others obey. For this to work, everyone needs to be disciplined. Leaders must command, and others must obey without hesitation. Willing submission to authority is essential for upholding the principles of citizenship in National Spain.
The Revolution
When a state is poorly governed, it must be reformed through revolution. A constructive revolution transforms disorder into order and corrects injustices. However, a revolution can also be demagogic, creating further chaos. Spain experienced a state-led revolution aimed at renewing its institutions, but many feared it would devolve into demagoguery. The pamphlet argues that if everyone supports the Spanish Revolution, it will lead to a great and free Spain.
Struggle of Classes
Workers were misled into believing that their employers were their enemies, leading to class struggle, which disrupts peace, order, and productivity. In the past, workers resorted to strikes, but now the State prohibits such actions.
The Provinces
Spain comprises 50 provinces, each with a leader appointed by the State to ensure effective organization. Each province has schools, medical centers, and other facilities to improve the lives of its citizens. We should be proud of our provinces and identify with them as integral parts of Spain.
Totalitarian State
The pamphlet suggests that if everyone prioritized politics, the state would become all-encompassing, and citizens would dedicate themselves to its service without the need for coercion.
The Church
Spain officially became Roman Catholic when the King converted. Spain defended Catholicism against Arabs, Turks, Jews, and others. We owe our music, painting, literature, and even our manners to religion. Without religion, our history would be empty, and Spain would be lifeless.
Spanish Nation
Now a unified nation, Spain has 24 million people who speak Castilian and practice Catholicism. The nation is eternal, indestructible, and its citizens should be proud of the sacrifices made for its freedom and the ability to choose their own identity.
The School
Teachers hold a position of authority, and the state provides free education to prepare citizens for their roles in society. Both public and private schools are essential. Schools collaborate with institutions that support children and their families. Order, discipline, and hard work are the foundations of a successful education.
Home
The home is the heart of family life. In winter, families gather around the fireplace – parents, children, grandchildren, and even servants. Elders share stories, parents offer guidance, children make promises, and servants listen and assist. The mother is the queen of the home, ensuring its well-being. A healthy, comfortable, and happy home is the foundation of a strong family.
The Destiny
Spain has a history of helping others, driven by religious beliefs. For example, Spain has baptized more non-believers than any other nation. Its motto was “Christians are brothers, and those who are not, should become Christians to be my brothers.” Spain’s mission was to Christianize the world.
The Country
A citizen who is ashamed of their country is like a child who is ashamed of their mother. There is no greater punishment than the downfall of one’s country. Citizens of New Spain must have not only courage but also pride. Pride in the sacrifices that have made us stronger and the glories that have made us great. The country is both a feeling and a reality – our community, town, house, and the place we honor through our words and actions.
The Rule
The empire is ruled by a caudillo (Franco), whom all Spaniards must obey, regardless of social class or privilege. Obedience should stem from reason and conscience, in addition to the obligation imposed by the leader, who commands respect. Rule implies sovereignty and control over a territory, state, or colony. Without rule, there is anarchy, which weakens a nation.
The State
A nation becomes a state when there is both authority and obedience. At the top is a caudillo, a supreme leader whom everyone must obey. The leader is accountable only to God and history. The leader delegates authority to Ministers, Civil and Military Governors (one of each in each province), and mayors (one per municipality).
The Military
The military embodies a life of service and sacrifice. We must live with courage, discipline, joy, hard work, and a willingness to sacrifice for the betterment of our country. This is our duty.