Spain's Transition to Democracy After Franco's Death

Spain's Transition to Democracy After Franco

The Beginning of the Transition (1975)

The transition to democracy in Spain began in 1975, following the death of Francisco Franco. To facilitate this transition, two key groups emerged. King Juan Carlos I was appointed, not as his hereditary title dictated, but because people believed he would usher in the end of Franco's dictatorship and establish democracy for all. Collaboration from the Spanish people was crucial to achieving this goal.

Social Unrest and Demands for Change

The populace was largely against the existing government, particularly the Arias Navarro administration. There was significant social unrest, highlighted by approximately 20,000 strikes in a single year. People demanded democratization, amnesty for political prisoners, and higher wages to address the ongoing economic crisis.

During this period, ETA, a Basque separatist group, intensified its activities, believing they were on the verge of achieving their goals. There were also concerns about a potential coup and fears that the military might attempt to establish a new authoritarian regime.

Key Events and the Role of King Juan Carlos I

To secure amnesty and maintain his position, the King took decisive action. Two significant events shaped the political landscape:

• Vitoria-Gasteiz Massacre: Workers gathered in several churches in Vitoria. Police opened fire, resulting in five deaths and numerous injuries.
• Montejurra Incident: Carlists gathered for their annual oath-taking ceremony. Civil guards intervened, leading to gunfire and the death of a civilian.

These events outraged the public and the military, who were committed to maintaining democracy. King Juan Carlos I, angered by the actions of Arias Navarro, delivered a speech emphasizing the need for reform. This speech was widely circulated, even reaching the Spanish Republic in exile in the Dominican Republic. The speech further fueled public discontent with Arias Navarro.

The Rise of Adolfo Suarez

Following increased pressure, Arias Navarro resigned, and the King accepted his resignation. A new head of government was needed. After considering figures like Fernando de Araoz y Miranda and Manuel Fraga, Adolfo Suarez was chosen. Suarez was seen as a good choice due to his reformist ideals, youth, political experience, and charisma. He was popular with the public and known for his engaging speeches, in which he consistently promised:

1. Democratic elections
2. A new constitution
3. Amnesty for political prisoners

The Path to Political Reform

Many of Franco's supporters remained in power. Suarez, however, was determined to dismantle the Francoist system and establish a democracy. He engaged in secret negotiations with trade unionists, socialists, and even Santiago Carrillo, the leader of the Communist Party, who was in hiding in Madrid. Suarez then proposed a law for political reform, aimed at dismantling Franco's political institutions, particularly the Cortes (parliament). This law was put to a referendum, with 77% of the population participating. An overwhelming 94% of those who voted approved the reform, marking the definitive end of Franco's regime and the beginning of a new democratic era in Spain.