On February 25, the Spanish government released 166 previously classified documents related to the 23-F coup attempt of 1981. Covering a total of 919 pages from the Ministries of Defense, Foreign Affairs, and the Interior, the documents shed light on various aspects of the coup while revealing some previously unknown details. Historians and experts have commented that while no major new revelations have emerged, the documents provide a substantial foundation for a deeper understanding of the events surrounding the coup.

The documents include an important report titled 'Operations in Progress,' which identified destabilizing maneuvers against Spain's constitutional order. This report was previously known but its contents have been further confirmed by the declassified files, offering insights into the political climate of the time. Additionally, while some details about the events of February 23rd were already familiar to the public, the declassification adds nuance to our comprehension of the key episodes and the subsequent actions that were taken.

Declassified documents also encourage a wider discussion regarding Spain's political history and its ongoing process of coming to terms with its past, particularly regarding the legacy of Francoism and the movements toward democracy. Understanding the coup's context and the government’s response can help inform current debates about democratic resilience and political stability in Spain. This situation represents an important moment in Spain's efforts to reconcile with its history and ensure the integrity of its constitutional framework going forward.