Review

"It is appropriate that the first volume in a new 'Democracy in the World' series should deal with Spain, a country that, after four decades of fascist dictatorship, developed very quickly into one of the newest democracies, not through war or revolution, but by `transition through transaction.' Reforms were instituted after Franco's death by his handpicked successor Juan Carlos who, together with Adolfo Suarez, deserves much of the credit for the reforms. Working within the Falangist regime and overcoming obstacles placed by oldguard fascists and the military, democratization was accomplished, leading to a new constitution, legitimization of political parties including eventually the Communists, free elections, and subsequently parliamentary victory of the moderate Socialists. All this is clearly described in detail by the author, who develops some interesting theories regarding the democratization process." -- Choice

Review

“It is appropriate that the first volume in a new 'Democracy in the World' series should deal with Spain, a country that, after four decades of fascist dictatorship, developed very quickly into one of the newest democracies, not through war or revolution, but by `transition through transaction.' Reforms were instituted after Franco's death by his handpicked successor Juan Carlos who, together with Adolfo Suarez, deserves much of the credit for the reforms. Working within the Falangist regime and overcoming obstacles placed by oldguard fascists and the military, democratization was accomplished, leading to a new constitution, legitimization of political parties including eventually the Communists, free elections, and subsequently parliamentary victory of the moderate Socialists. All this is clearly described in detail by the author, who develops some interesting theories regarding the democratization process.”–Choice