The Rise and Fall of Francoist Spain: From Authoritarianism to Crisis
Introduction
Francoist Spain (1939-1975), led by the authoritarian dictator Francisco Franco, persisted through different phases while maintaining control of all institutions. As Generalissimo, Franco held absolute power, ruling until his death. Francoism evolved through Early Francoism (1939-1959) and Late Francoism (1959-1975), which encompassed the 1960s and the subsequent crisis. Despite its differences, the Franco regime remained steadfast in its suppression of dissent and preservation of power.
1. Ideological, Political, and Social Foundations of the Francoist Regime
Franco’s authority derived from his victory in the Spanish Civil War. Key supporters included:
- The Falange, renamed the National Movement, provided organizational structures and symbols.
- The Church granted legitimacy.
- The armed forces ensured security.
Franco maintained loyalty from some social groups by manipulating their interests.
2. Early Francoism
Early Francoism can be divided into two phases: Postwar (1939-1950) and Liberalization and International System Acceptance (1950-1960).
Postwar (1939-1950)
The Franco regime emphasized stability through authoritarianism and autarky. In domestic policy, Republican supporters were repressed, and dissidents suffered prosecution. The vertical syndicate was established.
In foreign policy, Franco declared neutrality in World War II, later participating through the Blue Division. This led to ostracism in international policy, only mitigated by Argentina’s support.
In economics, autarky, or self-sufficiency, led to poverty and rural exodus. Industrialization suffered from the lack of Marshall Plan benefits.
Opposition was marked by repression and exclusion of Republicans from politics, and people adapted to this life little by little.
Liberalization and International Acceptance (1950-1960)
During the Cold War, Spain’s anti-communist stance convinced the United States. Recognizing its strategic value against Soviet threats, the US provided aid and ended Spain’s isolation.
The Vatican concordat supported the Franco regime, favoring the Church. Economic pressures moved Spain away from autarky. The Falange resisted capitalism, while Opus Dei pushed for growth and European integration.
The 1960s
Economy
The growth in Spain from 1950 to 1973, known as “Desarrollismo”, marked a significant legacy of Francoism.
Spearheaded by technocrats like Lopez Rodo and Lopez Bravo, economic reforms aimed to modernize the country and bolster the regime.
The development plans focused on achieving national production growth, full employment, income distribution, and integration into the capitalist economy. This period witnessed rapid economic expansion. However, social and cultural consequences emerged, including the growth of a middle class and an urban working class.
Domestic Policy
Domestic policy simmered with growing opposition, and a mobilized labor force demanded rights.
Foreign Policy
Internationally, Spain faced rejection from European neighbors and challenges over Gibraltar.
Opposition
Despite economic prosperity, tensions between society and the regime persisted, culminating in growing domestic opposition, labor unrest, regional protests, and student demonstrations.
The regime’s response oscillated between repression and limited concessions, reflecting a struggle to maintain power amidst social changes and international scrutiny.
Crisis of Late Francoism
The closing years of the Franco regime were tumultuous, marked by violence and internal strife as anticipation of the dictator’s demise grew. In 1969, Franco designated Juan Carlos of Borbon as his successor. Admiral Carrero Blanco emerged as a key political figure. However, his assassination by ETA in 1973 led to a severe government crisis.
From Moderate to Democratic Liberalism in 19th Century Spain
Introduction
In the mid-19th century, Spain underwent political turbulence, transforming from moderate to democratic liberalism. Viewed as ancient privileges, recent research traces the ‘Fueros’.
Period of Regencies
Isabel II inherited the throne in 1833, sparking regencies under Maria Cristina and General Espartero during her minority. This period saw a move towards liberalism.
Reign of Isabel II
In 1843, Isabel II took power, ending the regency and establishing a constitutional monarchy. Moderates and progressives alternated in power, reflecting diverse liberal views.
Democratic Liberalism (1868-1874)
From 1868 to 1874, Spain underwent a turbulent period of democratic liberalism.
The Carlist Wars and the ‘Fueros’
Beginning of the 19th Century
Ferdinand VII’s restoration fueled tensions between liberals and absolutists, laying the groundwork for the Carlist party. His death in 1833 led to his daughter, Isabel, inheriting the throne, creating a pragmatic situation. This triggered the First Carlist War, with two groups: supporters of Carlos against Isabel. This conflict shaped Basque history for decades.
First Carlist War
Tomas Zumalacarregui guerrilla tactics proved effective until his death in 1835.
3 INSERTION OF FORLA REGIME Espartero regency in 1840 led the law of Pacts in 1841, reducing Navarre sovereignty.
4 3RD CARLIST WAR 3rd carlist war erupted 1872 over dynastic diputies. Canovas economic agreement in 1878, with “Conciertos economicos”