Spanish Political History: From Socialism to the Euro
The Socialist Government’s Consolidation of Democracy
From a historical perspective, the long period of socialist government can be defined as the consolidation of democracy. The socialist government, armed with the authority of ten million votes, proceeded decisively with military discipline. Under Narcís Serra, the new legal management of the military in democracy was completed, including the National Defense Law and reform of the Code of Military Justice.
The first socialist government had a fairly long tenure, lasting until the summer of 1985. Its most positive aspect was the economic policy, although there were also negative developments: the expropriation of RUMASA and the appearance of the GAL.
Aznar’s Government and the Rise of the PP
The Popular Party (PP) underwent a rejuvenation, leading to José María Aznar’s leadership, distancing the party from the old image of the Franco regime, represented by Manuel Fraga and other leaders. The PP’s move towards the center allowed it to gain centrist votes, youth support, and attract those with a higher economic level.
In the elections of March 3, 1996, the Popular Party (PP), above Alianza Popular, won by a small margin of votes (approximately 300,000), securing the political leadership of the Spanish government. With parliamentary support from CIU, PNV, and the Canary Coalition, José María Aznar’s party formed a Popular government.
PSOE’s Challenges and Leadership Changes
The PSOE suffered serious electoral divisions after the defeat, which became apparent with Felipe González’s resignation from the General Secretariat. These divisions continued until the election of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero as Secretary General in July 2000.
The Popular Party’s Continued Success
In March 2000, the Popular Party won the elections again, this time with an absolute majority. José María Aznar formed a government without the need for support from nationalist forces, which he had relied on during his first term since 1996.
Legislative Changes and Social Reforms
Significant legislative changes occurred on social issues, including education laws such as the LOU for university reform and the Quality Act of Education for early childhood, primary, and secondary education. There were also changes to job content standards and reforms of criminal and civil laws.
Economic Improvement and European Integration
The great economic improvement, which began in 1994 with measures taken by the socialist minister Solbes, was followed by a recovery phase and subsequent expansion. This situation aligned with Europe and provided stability, allowing Spain to overcome the economic convergence criteria for joining the group of countries adopting the single European currency, the euro, in common use since 2002.
This stage was facilitated by the international environment, the recovered agreement between social partners, and government stability. Per capita income grew at high rates, around 4% between 1997 and 2000. This favorable situation was accompanied by positive aspects, such as reducing public deficits, relative price stability, and a significant reduction in unemployment, although Spain remained the European Union country with the highest unemployment rate.