The stories behind the declassified documents of February 23rd
The Spanish government has declassified over 150 documents related to the attempted coup on February 23, 1981, revealing significant insights about the event and the government’s response.
On the 45th anniversary of the attempted coup d'état in Spain, known as 23-F, the Spanish government has approved the release of over 150 previously classified documents. These materials originate from the Ministries of Defense, Interior, and Foreign Affairs and include reports, transcripts of telephone conversations, military communications, and handwritten documents. This release aims to shed light on the historical context and the decision-making processes during the coup attempt, which has been a pivotal moment in Spain's democratic history.
Among the documents, one significant item includes a record of communications between the coup plotters and the Spanish monarchy, particularly highlighting the exchanges between King Juan Carlos and military leader Milans del Bosch. The documents reveal critical insights into the royal family's stance during the crisis, as well as the King's decisive role in thwarting the coup by asserting his commitment to Spain and democracy, stating, 'I will neither abdicate nor abandon Spain.' Understanding the intricacies of these communications enriches the narrative of how Spain navigated through one of its most challenging political crises.
Additionally, the release also touches upon the involvement of intelligence services and investigations regarding key figures during and after the coup attempt. It discusses the case of Sánchez-Valiente, who was reportedly contacted in Rome months later and may have left with sensitive documentation. The implication of six secret service agents further emphasizes the complex layering of political maneuvering and covert operations that characterized the attempt to overthrow Spain's democratic government. This declassification serves not only to inform the public but also to foster discussions on the importance of transparency in governmental actions during crises.