Ex. Anatomy of a dictator

On November 20, 1975, shortly before his 83rd birthday, General Francisco Franco died in Madrid. For almost 40 years, he led a dictatorial regime, keeping the title of "caudillo". Spanish historian Enrique Moradielos examines Franco in three aspects: as a person, as a caudillo, and as a ruler of Spain. The author offers a new assessment of Franco's personality, his leadership style, and the regime he created and led until his death.

Franco, having established his power before the beginning of the Second World War and holding it until the mid-1970s, was one of the most important figures in European history of the 20th century. Today it is part of Spain's recent sad past, which still feels its influence. Although less is known about Franco than Mussolini, Hitler or Stalin, his longevity and continued political influence and positive public image are significant. The study of the features and historical evolution of his regime illuminates important questions of European history, including the social and cultural basis of totalitarianism and authoritarianism as threats to democracy, as well as the foundations of political legitimacy based on the charisma of the leader.