Colonel Antonio Tejero, a key figure in Spain's history for leading the failed coup d'état of 1981, has died at the age of 93. His passing coincided with the Spanish government's decision to declassify documents regarding the coup, which has been a significant event in Spanish political history. Tejero's actions during the coup attempt marked a critical moment in Spain's transition to democracy after the Franco dictatorship.

The coup, which took place on February 23, 1981, was an attempt by military officers and right-wing elements to take control of the Spanish government during a parliamentary session. Tejero led a group of Civil Guards into the Congress of Deputies, where they held members of parliament hostage in an attempt to overthrow the government. The coup ultimately failed due to the decisive actions of then-King Juan Carlos I, who rejected military intervention and supported democratic governance.

Tejero's death leads to renewed discussions about the historical context of the coup and its implications for present-day Spain, particularly in light of the recently declassified documents. These documents are expected to shed more light on the events of 1981 and the tensions between military and civilian authority during that tumultuous period. The Spanish society continues to grapple with the legacy of the Franco regime and the establishment of a stable democracy, making Tejero's story particularly relevant for understanding Spain's current political landscape.