The Franco Dictatorship: History and Characteristics (1939–1975)

Early Francoism: The Autarky Period (1939–1959)

Francoism was a political system created by Francisco Franco.

It rejected democracy and was based on militarism, conservative Catholicism, and the unity of Spain. This early period of the regime lasted from 1939 to 1959.

Characteristics of the Regime

• All power was concentrated in Franco’s hands.
• He abolished the Constitution, elections, and Parliament.
• Political parties and trade unions were banned, except for the official party, the **Falange and JONS**.
• It was a highly centralized state.
• There was widespread persecution and violence against opponents of the regime.

Post-War Conditions and Autarky

After the Civil War, Spain was devastated. Approximately 1 million people died, and the country suffered severe shortages of clean water, electricity, fuel, and industrial production. Franco pursued a policy of economic self-sufficiency, known as **autarky**.

• There was a significant lack of education and infrastructure development.

Conclusion: Franco won the Civil War and remained in power, holding the titles of **Head of State**, **Head of Government**, and **Commander of the Army**.

Late Francoism: Economic Development and Decline (1959–1975)

Late Francoism lasted from 1959 to 1975. During this period, Spain experienced significant changes in society, economy, and development, although political opposition persisted.

The Era of Desarrollismo

In the 1960s, Spain entered a new phase called desarrollismo (development), which lasted from 1959 to 1969.

Economic growth was driven by a group known as the technocrats, who promoted tourism and industrialization. Seeking economic and political stability, the regime passed the Law of Principles of the National Movement.

Growing Opposition and Political Violence

Opposition to the regime grew, particularly among university students. Many Republican prisoners remained incarcerated. A shocking development during this time was the creation of the terrorist group **ETA**.

In the final years of the regime, Franco was gravely ill. In 1973, his Prime Minister, **Carrero Blanco**, was assassinated by **ETA**. Subsequently, Carlos Arias Navarro became the new Prime Minister.

Spain also lost its last colonies, which were located in North Africa.

Franco died on 20 November 1975, marking the beginning of the transition to democracy.

To conclude: Franco led a dictatorship that spanned almost 40 years, from 1939 to 1975, maintaining full control of the government and the state throughout that time.