Francoist Spain: Political Structure and Social Control

The Dictatorship of Franco and His Personality

The end of the war forced Franco to better define the characteristics of his political regime. At the same time, he was the head of state, the Army, and the Falange, the only legal political party. For the regime's policy, Franco converged all anti-democratic groups into a new party: the Traditionalist Falange of the JONS.

Political Structure and Legislative Power

The political structure was created to develop slowly. Legislative power was reserved for the Parliament (Cortes), which was in charge of proposing and voting on laws, though Franco retained the power to veto them. The members of the Cortes were not voted for by the people; a few were chosen directly by Franco, and the rest belonged to the highest institutions. The Falange held various positions, both civilian and military. The judiciary also depended on Franco. Finally, the executive power—the government—was chaired personally by Franco, who could designate and dismiss ministers without consulting anyone.

Legislation and the Law of Succession

Instead of a constitution, the Cortes and Franco approved the Charter of the Spanish People (Fuero de los Españoles), a document reflecting the rights of individuals. This law established the State and Catholic confessionalism, regulating the rights and duties of citizens. The Cortes and Franco also approved the Law of Succession to the Headship of the State. This referendum was totally manipulated by the power in place. Through this bill, Spain was defined as a kingdom that eventually had to restore the monarchy in the person whom Franco decided. Finally, the structure of state politics led to the adoption of the Principles of the National Movement Act, ensuring that Falangist ideas were totally assumed by the state.

The Role of the Church and National Catholicism

The Catholic Church played a very important role in shaping political and social pro-Franco Spain. The relationship between power and the church was very intense and gave rise to the doctrine of National Catholicism.

Repression: A Political Necessity

The hierarchical political system around the figure of Franco and the participation of National Syndicalism and the Church were designed for a dictatorial state with only one official ideology. The regime promulgated the Law of Political Responsibilities. With this law in hand, the military dictatorship tried many people through summary court-martial procedures; they were often accused of military rebellion when they had simply defended the Republic.

Social Control and the Climate of Terror

The enforcement of the law meant many people lost their jobs, becoming victims of a purge because of their political ideas. Repression affected all spheres of life and created a climate of terror, as the government encouraged complaints from neighbors or coworkers. Police control was intense, extending even to recreational activities such as:

• Theater
• Film
• Sport