¡Franco, Franco, Franco! (Memoria de España 25/26)

Name: ¡Franco, Franco, Franco! (Memoria de España 25/26)
Uploaded: 2021-02-13T18:00:17.000Z
Duration: 2 h 4 min 42 s

The Aftermath of the Spanish Civil War

The End of the Civil War and Franco's Rise to Power

On April 1, 1939, the Spanish Civil War concludes, resulting in approximately 300,000 deaths. The surviving 25 million Spaniards enter a challenging post-war period.

General Francisco Franco presides over a grand military parade in Madrid on May 19, 1939, celebrating his victory with foreign troops from Italy and Germany participating.

Franco consolidates unprecedented power as he holds multiple key positions: head of state, government president, military commander, and leader of Spain's only permitted party.

Following the victory parade, Franco receives the blessing of the Spanish Church during an emotional ceremony at Santa Barbara church where he offers his sword to God.

The new regime restores Catholic influence in Spain while those who lost the war face severe repercussions; nearly half a million flee to France.

Repression and Political Purges

Initially, bullrings and football fields serve as makeshift prisons for over 300,000 Republican prisoners; many are sent to provisional concentration camps across Spain.

Approximately 40,000 prisoners are executed in subsequent years under political purges that label dissenters as rebels against the state.

Notable figures like poet Miguel Hernández die in prison due to malnutrition and harsh conditions; repression becomes foundational for Franco's regime.

A totalitarian state is established under Franco that suppresses democratic freedoms; autonomy statutes for Basque Country and Catalonia are revoked along with language persecution.

The regime relies on three main pillars: military support, a single-party system dominated by Falangists, and strong ties with the Catholic Church.

Societal Impact Post-War

By late 1939, Spain is left economically devastated and morally fractured; survivors live amidst poverty and fear without time to mourn their losses.

Daily life is marked by hunger and disease as people struggle to cope with their traumatic experiences from both war loss and ongoing oppression.

A sense of collective death permeates society—those alive feel as if they have been killed emotionally or spiritually due to trauma endured during conflict.

International Context: World War II Begins

With Germany invading Poland five months after Spain’s civil war ends, global tensions rise leading into World War II which pits fascism against communism and democracy.

Franco shifts from neutrality towards aligning with Nazi Germany due to his belief in their eventual victory; he seeks territorial gains in North Africa through this alliance.

Franco's Military Decisions and Post-War Spain

Franco's Authorization of Volunteer Forces

Franco authorizes the formation of a volunteer military force, known as the Blue Division, to assist Germany on the Russian front. This marks Spain's indirect involvement in the European conflict without a formal declaration of war.

Over two years, approximately 47,000 Spaniards participate in combat within this division.

The Struggles of Post-War Spain

The dire food shortages in post-war Spain lead to a significant black market for goods, referred to as "estraperlo," which supplies the underground economy.

Wealthier individuals resort to the black market to supplement their meager rations provided by government-issued ration cards. The fight against hunger becomes paramount for Spaniards during the 1940s.

Resistance Movements and Political Climate

The defeat of fascism in Europe ignites hope among Spanish Republicans in exile, many of whom actively participated in resistance efforts against Nazism in France.

An operation organized by the Communist Party aims to liberate Spain from Francoist rule but ends unsuccessfully despite 4,000 guerrillas infiltrating through Valle de Arán.

Isolation and International Relations

Following Allied victory, Franco’s regime stands as Europe's sole surviving fascist government that supported Hitler. In 1946, international isolation intensifies when the United Nations denies Spain entry into its organization.

As diplomatic relations sever with various countries, including France closing its border with Spain, Franco organizes patriotic demonstrations to showcase popular support for his regime.

Shift Towards Catholicism

Due to changing international dynamics, Franco alters his political strategy; Falangists lose influence while Catholics gain prominence within his government.

To distance himself from defeated fascism, Franco emphasizes a Catholic identity through mass religious events and public displays of faith across Spain.

Internal Repression and Prison Conditions

The previously harsh repression softens due to international pressure; fewer prisoners remain incarcerated as new decrees allow conditional releases.

Many released prisoners had served time in labor camps; some worked on constructing Valle de los Caídos—a mausoleum dedicated to Civil War victims initiated by Franco.

Legislative Changes and Succession Planning

In an effort for legitimacy, Franco holds a referendum in 1947 regarding a crucial law—the Law of Succession—establishing Spain as a kingdom under his leadership with rights to choose his successor.

Despite poor relations between him and Don Juan de Bourbon’s family, arrangements are made for young Prince Juan Carlos (10 years old at that time) to study in Spain.

Economic Hardships and Social Unrest

Severe drought conditions from 1944–46 exacerbate food shortages; the regime uses these circumstances as justification for bread scarcity amidst growing social discontent.

The Rise of Labor Movements Against Franco

Government Repression and Labor Movements

The government deploys the army to suppress striking workers, resulting in 4,000 arrests. This marks the beginning of labor opposition against Franco's regime.

Propaganda and Cultural Initiatives

In the same year, the regime's propaganda apparatus utilizes cultural events to showcase its control over labor unions, specifically highlighting the National Syndicalist Central as the sole union for all workers.

Economic Autarky Under Franco

Since the end of the war, Franco's economic dream has been self-sufficiency, aiming for Spain to produce everything necessary without external trade.

Industrialization Efforts

In the early 1940s, the government establishes the National Institute of Industry (INI) to promote state-driven industrialization in Spain.

Energy Production Challenges

Coal production is prioritized alongside hydroelectric energy; however, international market closures due to blockades hinder many industrial projects by preventing imports of essential machinery and raw materials like oil.

Innovations Amidst Scarcity

Ingenious Solutions to Fuel Shortages

Gasoline shortages lead Spaniards to innovate with pedal-powered vehicles like "autopedals" and battery-operated taxis as alternatives that do not require fuel.

Franco’s Image on Currency

As Franco consolidates power during the Cold War era, he decides to feature his image on Spanish coins as a symbol of his regime's stability.

Economic Recovery and Urban Migration

Post-War Hopefulness

By the mid-1950s, Spaniards begin to see an end to hunger and poverty after years of hardship. The country regains pre-war living standards by 1952 when rationing cards are abolished.

Rural Exodus

The 1950s witness a significant migration from rural areas to cities as young people leave agriculture due to poor harvest conditions.

International Relations and Legitimacy

Diplomatic Developments

Positive news for Franco begins in 1950 with returning ambassadors after UN sanctions are lifted. A concordat with Vatican City solidifies support for his regime.

Military Agreements with the U.S.

Spain signs a military agreement with the United States allowing American bases on Spanish soil in exchange for economic aid—Franco’s major diplomatic success without renouncing dictatorship.

Consolidation of Power

International Recognition

By joining the UN in 1955, Franco achieves definitive international legitimacy for his regime amidst growing confidence against internal opposition.

Urban Development vs. Housing Crisis

Despite claims of progress symbolized by skyscrapers like Edificio España, there is a severe housing deficit exacerbated by urban migration from rural areas seeking better opportunities.

Youth Unrest and University Dynamics

Emergence of Student Activism

A new generation enters universities largely composed of children from victorious factions who have been educated under Francoism but begin organizing against student unions' dominance.

State Response to Protests

Following violent clashes between students in February 1956 leading to serious injuries, Franco’s regime responds harshly by declaring a state of emergency and closing universities—a sign that youth opposition is gaining momentum.

Colonial Changes in North Africa

Morocco's Independence Protocol

The End of the Imperial Dream

Loss of Protectorate in Morocco

The loss of the Moroccan protectorate marks the definitive end of Spain's imperial aspirations post-July 18 regime.

Following independence, Spain faces ongoing territorial ambitions from the new Moroccan state.

France relinquishes its control over Moroccan mercenary troops that had fought alongside them during the civil war.

Economic Crisis and Government Changes

By 1957, Spain is on the brink of bankruptcy due to an autarkic economic policy that stifles growth and leaves no foreign currency for essential imports.

Franco is compelled to restructure his government, appointing Catholic technocrats from Opus Dei to manage economic portfolios.

Shift in Economic Policy

In response to worsening conditions, Franco reluctantly approves a stabilization plan in 1959, leading to economic liberalization.

The Spanish market opens up for foreign investment; however, this results in a significant devaluation of the peseta.

Franco's Legacy and Societal Changes

Commemoration and Historical Memory

In 1959, coinciding with the Civil War's 20th anniversary, Franco inaugurates Valle de los Caídos as a monument to his military victory.

José Antonio Primo de Rivera’s remains are interred at this site; Franco plans for his own burial there as well.

Economic Recovery Signs

The early 1960s show signs of economic recovery after years of brutal post-war hardship; advertising begins to emerge as a symbol of change.

Urban Migration and Social Issues

Mass Migration Trends

A massive rural-to-urban migration occurs as over three million people leave their homes seeking better opportunities in cities.

Urban Challenges

This influx leads to severe housing shortages and rising prices, creating impoverished suburbs filled with shantytowns (barrios de chabolas).

Labor Market Dynamics

Employment Struggles

Reforms within companies lead to increased unemployment rates; many workers lose overtime pay which was crucial for their income.

Emergence of Unemployment Benefits

The rise in jobless individuals prompts the government to introduce unemployment benefits for the first time.

Economic Growth Amidst Turmoil

Economic Development Achievements

The stabilization plan results in remarkable economic growth during the 1960s with an average annual increase of 7%.

Industrial Transformation

Spain transitions from an agrarian economy towards rapid industrialization, marking a significant shift in its economic landscape.

Labor Movements and Political Opposition

Rise of Labor Unions

A general strike occurs in Asturias in spring 1962 led by Comisiones Obreras, signaling organized labor opposition against Francoism.

Expansion Beyond Asturias

The strike spreads across Spain but gains most traction in Basque Country; government responds by declaring a state of emergency.

International Engagement and Political Unity

Congress Participation

In June 1962, Spanish exiles attend a congress in Munich discussing potential entry into European Economic Community (EEC).

Diverse Representation at Congress

Spain's Political Landscape in the 1960s

Opposition to European Integration

Spain is not invited to Munich due to its opposition to the European Union process. A resolution is passed outlining conditions for Spain's integration, including restoring democratic institutions and renouncing violence.

The Spanish government declares a new state of emergency nationwide, reacting against perceived foreign criticism and solidifying its stance against Europe’s support for opposition groups.

Repression and Political Trials

Following the establishment of the Tribunal de Orden Público (TOP) in 1963, thousands are condemned for political activities against Francoism. Military courts focus solely on terrorism-related crimes.

Notable cases include the execution of communist leader Julián Grimaú in 1963 despite international protests regarding his trial and sentencing.

Church Reform Movements

The Second Vatican Council inspires a segment of the Spanish Church, leading young priests and progressive Catholics to engage with workers' movements traditionally distanced from the Church.

By the 1960s, social commitment drives many clergy towards leftist organizations, culminating in protests by Basque and Catalan priests against their bishops’ complicity with Franco’s regime.

Economic Growth and Social Change

The tourism sector booms during the 1960s as millions flock to Spain for its low prices and sunny beaches; tourist numbers quadruple from six million to twenty-four million.

This influx brings significant foreign currency that aids modernization efforts while exposing Spaniards to diverse lifestyles contrasting sharply with their own conservative norms.

Nationalism Resurgence

As Franco marks thirty years in power in 1966, he acknowledges economic development but faces diminishing unconditional support from the Church.

In July 1969, Franco names Prince Juan Carlos as his successor, believing this will secure a future monarchy aligned with his regime.

Regional Nationalism Movements

Despite centralist repression, nationalist sentiments thrive in Catalonia and Basque Country during economic growth in the 60s.

A moderate Catalan nationalism emerges involving various societal sectors uniting against Francoism through organized assemblies that incorporate civic movements alongside political parties.

Radicalization of Nationalist Politics

In contrast to moderate movements, radical nationalism gains traction within Spain. ETA commits high-profile assassinations like that of police commissioner Melitón Manzanas in 1969.

ETA and the Political Landscape of Spain in the 1970s

The Emergence of ETA

ETA, Euskadi y libertad, was founded in 1959 by a group of young individuals expelled from PNU youth organizations. By 1970, police detentions had severely weakened the organization.

Impact of the Burgos Trials

The Burgos trials generated significant attention both within Spain and internationally, which ETA leveraged to promote its objectives. Six individuals were sentenced to death during these military trials.

Popular Mobilization and Economic Changes

Public mobilizations demanding clemency forced Franco to commute death sentences to life imprisonment. The indiscriminate repression against Basque nationalism inadvertently fueled support for ETA as it grew stronger within Basque society.

By the 1970s, Spain transitioned from an agrarian economy to becoming the tenth largest industrial power globally, with per capita income exceeding $1,000.

Social Transformation and University Activism

Economic prosperity allowed middle classes to flourish; Spaniards became increasingly liberal in their customs and more aligned with European political needs.

Universities emerged as critical battlegrounds for political issues; they became centers for resistance against Franco's regime.

Labor Movements and Strikes

Frequent protests, strikes, and confrontations with police marked daily life in the 1970s. Franco's regime lost control over universities, which began producing future political leaders.

Many companies chose to bypass official union representatives in favor of negotiating with illegal unions. In 1970 alone, there were approximately 1,600 strikes despite no legal recognition of the right to strike.

Repression Against Workers' Movements

Illegal labor unions fought openly for workers' rights and political freedoms while facing violent repression from Franco’s government.

Church's Shift Away from Francoism

The church began distancing itself from Franco’s regime during the 1970s. In 1971, it publicly apologized for failing as a reconciliatory force post-Civil War.

Leadership Changes Amidst Crisis

As Franco aged (80 years old), he appointed Admiral Carrero Blanco as head of government in an attempt to ensure continuity after his eventual departure.

Economic Challenges Under Carrero Blanco

Carrero Blanco's administration coincided with a global economic crisis that started affecting Spain significantly by early 1974.

Assassination of Carrero Blanco

On December 20th, 1973, Carrero Blanco was assassinated by ETA. His death symbolized a loss of stability for Franco’s regime as Carlos Arias Navarro took over leadership responsibilities.

Political Opposition Gaining Ground

In February 1974, President Arias announced intentions towards reforming the regime amidst growing opposition movements gaining traction on streets and within society.

Formation of Democratic Alliances

The Communist Party called for a broad alliance among various political forces aimed at achieving democratic change; this led to the formation of Junta Democrática de España shortly thereafter.

Renewal Within PSOE

In late 1974 at Suresnes Congress, PSOE underwent significant renewal under new leadership including Felipe González who represented younger members untainted by Civil War experiences.

Escalation of Violence

Franco's Regime and Its Final Days

The Pressures of the Far-Right and Repression

The far-right Francoist factions exert pressure to revert to the origins of the movement, responding to various challenges with increased repression.

Despite international protests and numerous pleas for clemency, on September 27, 1975, two ETA activists and three from another leftist group are executed.

Franco's Last Public Appearance

In a final attempt to showcase support for his regime, Franco's government organizes a demonstration in Plaza de Oriente; this marks the last time Spaniards see him alive.

National Radio of Spain broadcasts the announcement of Generalissimo Franco’s death, emphasizing his status as head of state.

Death and Aftermath

Franco dies after a prolonged illness on November 20, 1975; his body is displayed publicly at the Royal Palace for two days.

Symbolism Surrounding His Death

Following his death, only a cross will mark his grave; these symbols encapsulate half a century of Spanish history under his rule.