Francoist Spain: Political & Economic Shifts (1939-1975)

Francoist Spain: The Later Years (1959-1975)

Political System & Governance

The political system maintained its ideological bases. The press law abolished censorship. The Organic Law of the State separated the posts of head of state and prime minister, confirming Spain as a kingdom. Franco designated Prince Juan Carlos de Borbón as his successor.

In the governments of this period, the Falange lost influence in favor of technocrats, many of whom were from Opus Dei. Their main objectives were economic development and ensuring social stability.

Opposition & Social Conflict

Opposition to the dictatorship grew significantly. It comprised the CCOO and UGT trade unions, the PSOE (which had renounced Marxism), the PC (aligned with Eurocommunism), Catalan and Basque nationalists, groups like ETA and GRAPO, university students, and the Catholic Church, which was increasingly distancing itself from the regime.

Notable actions by the opposition included the so-called Munich Conspiracy, an opposition meeting held in that city to demand democracy in Spain.

In 1974, the opposition grouped into two major organizations: the Democratic Board of Spain and the Democratic Convergence Platform. Franco died on November 20, 1975.

Franco's Foreign Policy

Franco's foreign policy was characterized by the following key developments:

• The Spanish request for entry into the European Economic Community (1962). It was rejected due to the undemocratic nature of the Franco regime. However, in 1970, Spain achieved a preferential trade agreement, which granted it significant tariff advantages.
• Spain's claim to the UN for sovereignty over Gibraltar. The British refused to relinquish control of the Rock. Faced with this refusal, Spain closed its border with Gibraltar.
• The ongoing process of decolonization continued. Equatorial Guinea gained independence. However, in 1975, taking advantage of Franco's illness, King Hassan II of Morocco organized the Green March into the Sahara, composed of unarmed Moroccans, with the aim of annexation. The Madrid Accords subsequently divided the Sahara between Mauritania and Morocco.

Economic Evolution in Francoist Spain

The Autarky Period (1939-1959)

Autarkic Economic Policies

Autarkic policies were based on state intervention in all sectors of the economy. Expropriated land was returned to its former owners, and the state controlled the price and production of wheat.

Consequences of Autarky

The consequences of autarky were severe economic stagnation and widespread social problems.

Economic Stagnation Under Autarky

Economic stagnation was primarily due to the collapse of agricultural and industrial production. Low agricultural productivity, exacerbated by drought, led to widespread famine and severe food shortages.

Social Challenges During Autarky

Social problems were primarily caused by severe shortages. This caused a sharp rise in prices and the emergence of a thriving black market.