The 23-F coup plotters blamed the failure of the coup on their decision to respect King Juan Carlos I's freedom and treat him like a gentleman, as revealed in newly declassified documents.
A recently declassified 23-page handwritten document reveals that the plotters of the February 23, 1981 coup in Spain attributed their failure to their decision to leave King Juan Carlos I unrestrained and to treat him with respect. The document, part of a release by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's government, details the preparations for the coup and includes a critical assessment of the actions taken. The author provides a critique, known in military terms as a 'critical judgment', analyzing the shortcomings and successes of the coup attempt.
The document suggests that after the failed coup, there should be no disappointment but rather a strategic examination of future actions. It outlines two paths for military leaders: either to respond valiantly as soldiers or to capitulate to the dismantling of the nation. This insight into the thoughts of the military at the time highlights the delicate balance of power in Spain and the critical role of the monarchy during a tumultuous period in the country's history.
The implications of these insights delve into the interplay between military and political power in Spain. The recognition of King Juan Carlos I's pivotal role in averting the coup indicates the complexities of Spanish politics during the transition to democracy. Understanding these dynamics is vital for grasping the historical advancements and challenges faced by Spain in the subsequent decades.
