The Penguin History of Modern Spain

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A revelatory new history of Spain from the late nineteenth century to the twenty-first examines the country's unique narrative, often encapsulated by the Franco regime's proclamation, "Spain is different." This perspective has shaped global perceptions, particularly following the decline of its empire in 1898 and culminating in the 2010 World Cup triumph. The traditional focus on the civil war of the 1930s, the republican struggle, and the subsequent dictatorship has painted Franco's Spain as an anomaly in post-war Europe. However, this work reveals a vastly different narrative, showcasing Spain as a dynamic and progressive society integrated into modern European history. Drawing on over forty years of post-Franco scholarship, it transforms our understanding of Spain's politics, society, economics, and culture. By incorporating groundbreaking Spanish-led research and firsthand accounts from various societal segments—including peasants, housewives, soldiers, workers, entrepreneurs, feminists, and worker-priests—it presents an original portrait of the nation. This exploration allows for a clearer view of Spain, moving beyond the propaganda and romantic myths that have long persisted.