Memoirs Detail 'Great Respect' for Franco
The release of former Spanish King Juan Carlos I's memoirs, titled 'Reconciliation,' has sparked widespread debate across Spain, particularly due to his favorable portrayal of the late dictator General Francisco Franco. Co-written with French author Laurence Debray, the French edition of the 500-page book was released in November 2025, with the Spanish version hitting bookstores on December 3, 2025.
In the autobiography, Juan Carlos expresses 'great respect' for Franco, stating, 'I appreciated his intelligence and political wisdom.' He also claims he 'never allowed anyone to criticize him in my presence.' The former monarch refers to Franco as 'the general' or simply 'Franco,' avoiding the term 'dictator,' and describes an 'almost paternal relationship' between them. He recounts Franco's dying wish, 'I only ask you one thing: keep the country united,' a request he says gave him the freedom to guide Spain towards democracy.
Political and Public Outcry
The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from various political figures in Spain. Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun, a member of the far-left Sumar party, condemned the defense of Franco as 'sickening.' Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his 'surprise' at some of the memoir's content. Additionally, former Socialist Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero suggested that Juan Carlos should have 'tempered his words' regarding Franco, whose regime was characterized by executions, political imprisonments, and strict censorship.
The publication has reignited public discussion over Juan Carlos's legacy and his historical ties to the dictatorship. While some Spaniards view the memoirs with 'morbid fascination,' the controversy highlights ongoing divisions within the country regarding its past. The former king, who has been living in self-imposed exile in Abu Dhabi since 2020, was notably not invited to official commemorations marking the 50th anniversary of Franco's death.
A Legacy Under Scrutiny
Juan Carlos, who was brought to Spain by Franco at the age of 10 to be groomed as his successor and crowned king two days after Franco's death in 1975, is widely credited with playing a crucial role in Spain's transition to democracy. However, his reputation has been tarnished by various scandals, including financial misconduct and extramarital affairs, which ultimately led to his abdication in 2014.
In the memoirs, Juan Carlos also addresses other personal and political events, such as his regret over accepting a €65 million gift from the Saudi king, which he calls a 'serious mistake,' and the tragic death of his younger brother, Alfonso, in 1956. He states that he wrote the memoirs to ensure that young people 'can learn about the recent history of your country without distortions,' despite the renewed scrutiny his comments have brought upon his complex legacy.
7 Comments
Raphael
He was groomed by Franco, of course he had a relationship. It's his truth.
Leonardo
He helped transition Spain. You can't erase his personal history with Franco.
Michelangelo
"Great respect" for a dictator? Unacceptable.
Leonardo
One can acknowledge the difficult position Juan Carlos was in, being groomed by Franco, but his affectionate portrayal completely ignores the pain and suffering caused by that regime. It makes reconciliation harder, not easier.
Donatello
While Juan Carlos undeniably played a key role in Spain's democratic transition, his remarks about Franco are incredibly tone-deaf and hurtful to many. It's a complex legacy, but this part is hard to defend.
BuggaBoom
Juan Carlos brought democracy to Spain. His perspective matters.
Loubianka
Finally, an honest account from the man who lived it. History isn't always neat.