The article delves into the aftermath of the failed coup d'état in Spain on February 23, 1981, highlighting the impact it had on King Juan Carlos I and the military personnel who supported him. Newly declassified documents reveal concerns regarding the situation of military members aligned with the King during the coup, suggesting that their conditions have worsened in the months following the event. One particular report from the Ministry of the Interior in November 1981 alarmingly describes the 'serious' situation faced by the military involved with the National Police, pointing to a resurgence of the socio-political climate that led to the coup.

Additionally, the article recounts the tense hours in Zarzuela, where urgent decisions were made to disarm the coup attempt. A critical order issued during this period emphasized that no coup could hide behind the monarchy, underlining the King's role as a pivotal figure in countering the challenges to democracy. The sensitive nature of these revelations shines a spotlight on the complexities faced by King Juan Carlos during this turbulent time, reflecting the dual pressures of supporting democratic governance while managing the military's discontent.

As the narrative unfolds, the article portrays King Juan Carlos's reputation, which soared after his decisive actions during the coup but became increasingly frail, especially amid the testimonies of those who felt abandoned during this crisis. The emotional response from Tejero's wife, pleading over the phone about the failures of the military, underscores the profound emotional and political ramifications of the coup and its failure, encapsulating a turning point in Spain's democratic history.