Basque Economic Evolution and the Rise of Cooperatives
Political Climate and Early Opposition
Under the Franco regime, some Basques adapted well to local industrial placements. Initially, there was almost no opposition (oposiziorik), except for workers in Bilbao. Between 1952 and 1953, strikes occurred in the region, though this was not the case in private universities.
The Rise of Political Movements
The 1960s was the decade of the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) and Lanaval in Sestao. Nicolas Redondo attended meetings and was chosen by parties in France to lead (dirigitzeko). During this time, Felipe Gonzalez became known throughout the world, and ETA also emerged.
Economic Development and the Mondragón Model
The economy in Bizkaia fared well under the Franco regime, particularly as a result of the stabilization plan, which led to great development. In Gipuzkoa, cooperatives were created, introducing a new production system and economic model. This model was based on a force common to all: capital and investment management where the worker is the owner.
Social Impact and the Birth of Fagor and Eroski
In Mondragón, immigrants arrived to work in marginalized neighborhoods. A local priest worked within the marginalized church (elizan marginatuetan) to organize the community. Schools were established, and early sales of Fagor household appliances (elektrogailuak) were very successful. To support this growth, a cooperative savings bank (kutxa) was established. Eventually, the staff realized the need for a retail outlet, leading to the birth of Eroski, with the first store opening in Elorrio.
Industrialization in Alava and Vitoria-Gasteiz
As industrial space became scarce in Bizkaia, several industries moved to Alava, including the wine industry (ardogintzaren industria). The Vitoria-Gasteiz City Council decided to develop the city and invested significant funds. This positioning helped the city achieve industrialization while maintaining its Gross Domestic Product. While other areas like Tolosa focused on agriculture, Vitoria shifted toward services.
Demographic Growth in Bizkaia
Immigration to Bizkaia remained high, with 400,000 people arriving to work. This outstanding growth resulted in the population multiplying by three times during the industrial boom.
The 1973 Oil Crisis and Industrial Decline
A harsh economic crisis hit in 1973, known as the oil crisis. Bizkaia was the most affected region because of its industrial monoculture. This crisis damaged the economic progress that had previously attracted so many immigrants to the region.