Spain’s Economic and Demographic Transformation Post-Civil War
Economic and Demographic Shifts in Spain
During the 1960s, industrial production in Spain grew by nearly 160%, and per capita income multiplied eightfold. Spain transitioned from a rural to an industrialized nation. To support this new industry, solutions were needed. The expansion of Western countries facilitated a large influx of tourists, bringing in foreign currency that served as potential financing. Repressive working conditions led European countries to establish businesses in Spain. A surplus workforce emigrated to foreign countries, sending money back to their families in Spain, which consequently reduced the labor shortage.
The international oil crisis caught Spain by surprise, unlike neighboring countries that were prepared to act. The immediate consequence of rising oil prices was inflation and a significant deficit. The situation worsened with the end of the regime and the ensuing political instability.
During the initial phase of the Franco dictatorship, Spanish society experienced a setback. However, a second phase brought profound transformations. By 1975, society was largely urbanized, the class structure had changed, behavioral patterns were altered, and education levels had improved. The status of women also underwent significant changes. The process of secularization and the decline in the Church’s power are also noteworthy.
One of the key factors in the modernization of Spanish society was the rural exodus. The expansion of cities was characterized by a lack of planning, leading to disorderly growth and poor living conditions on the periphery, resulting in the formation of shantytowns. In rural areas, there was a decrease in agricultural laborers, while tenant farmers gained access to property, and landowners experienced a loss of global prestige and economic influence. Laborers’ attitudes changed; they adopted agricultural machinery and secured better salaries. This situation was crucial for the democratic transition, as it forced the regime to confront tensions in the countryside.
In urban areas, the number of workers in industry and services increased. The working class grew in strength, demanding better salaries from the regime. The labor movement also evolved, with the CNT transitioning to the Workers’ Commissions. Ultimately, the middle class became dominant, and the quality of life improved, fostering new attitudes.
The Civil War resulted in 600,000 deaths and 400,000 refugees. To these figures, one must add the increased mortality due to poor hygiene, healthcare, labor conditions, employment issues, and the prison population. The most significant demographic impacts were a falling birth rate and a decrease in the number of women working in the home.
Following the postwar years, Spain’s demographic evolution was marked by a continued decline in birth and mortality rates. However, from the 1960s onwards, the birth rate increased, coinciding with accelerated industrialization and urbanization.
During the Franco era, there was no significant international migration. However, a substantial rural exodus occurred, with people moving from rural areas to inner suburbs and urban centers. Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Madrid were the primary destinations, while Andalusia was a region of emigration. Internal migration intensified in the 1960s. Immigrants settled in suburban areas lacking established infrastructure, leading to the growth of shantytowns and precarious living conditions.
Regarding emigration abroad, it was practically nonexistent until 1945 but became active from 1959 to 1973. The causes were the effects of the Stabilization Plan and job offers from abroad.
Despite a slight increase in the primary sector workforce, many people shifted to the secondary or tertiary sectors, contributing to Spain’s development.
Catalonia’s population nearly doubled, primarily due to immigration rather than natural increase. This growth was driven by the demand for labor in industries, which expanded significantly from the 1960s. At that time, Catalonia lacked an independent and democratic government capable of integrating immigrants through education, culture, and social legislation. Nevertheless, significant social segregation did not occur, primarily due to linguistic or cultural reasons.