Spain Under Franco: A Historical Analysis of the Regime

Franco's Spain: The Dictatorship (1939-1975)

Opposition to Franco's regime faced significant challenges. Internal dissent was minimal due to purges, imprisonment, or exile. The most organized opposition came from the PCE (Spanish Communist Party), which gained some traction among workers by organizing factory workers' committees. Neighborhood associations provided the only real avenue for political activity within the confines of the regime.

Stages of the Franco Regime

1939-1950: Autarky

In the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War, the government solidified its authoritarian rule and initially aligned with the fascist Axis powers. However, by 1942, its orientation began to shift. The postwar years were marked by widespread hunger. Economic hardship, exacerbated by a lack of foreign investment, was prevalent. The government implemented Falangist nationalist economic policies, emphasizing self-sufficiency and autarky. The mandatory delivery of crops to the National Wheat Board led to widespread fraud. In 1941, the INI (National Institute of Industry) was created to nationalize strategic sectors of Spanish industry.

1950-1960: Opening

While the regime's core ideological principles remained intact, its policies began to liberalize in the 1950s. Spain started receiving aid from the United States. Inflation remained a significant problem, prompting the need for economic stabilization measures in 1955. Spain also began to participate in international forums.

1960-1975: Developmentalism

This period was characterized by the influence of technocrats from Opus Dei within the government. Spain experienced significant economic development and a shift towards more liberal attitudes. Development plans were implemented, and tourism boomed. In 1973, Luis Carrero Blanco became the President of the Government but was assassinated a few months later. On November 20, 1975, Franco died, and Juan Carlos ascended to the throne as King of Spain.

The Social System Under Franco

Franco's Role

Franco served as the head of state and, for most of the period, also held the position of Prime Minister.

The Army

The Army served as a deterrent and an instrument of repression within Spanish society. Compulsory military service was used as a means of ideological indoctrination.

The Church

The Church played a crucial role in legitimizing the regime both domestically and internationally.

The Bourgeoisie

The bourgeoisie and the feudal landed gentry were among the most committed supporters of the regime. The financial and industrial oligarchy also provided support. The regime's protectionist policies facilitated black market activity and illicit enrichment.