Antonio Cazorla Sánchez. Franco

There is no shortage of biographies of Francisco Franco. Studies of the late Spanish dictator have appeared in various languages and lengths since the Spanish Civil War, revealing a wide variety of approaches, points of focus, and political sympathies on the part of their authors. Nevertheless, Antonio Cazorla Sánchez's new book makes an original contribution to the existing literature, examining the evolution of portrayals and perceptions of Franco and their relationship to Spanish society, culture, and politics in a decidedly critical—when not overtly polemical—fashion. More a history of Franco's image than a traditional biography, this highly readable book has the underlying goal of explaining why a majority of Spaniards “often loved and respected their dictator” (p. 12). Although it may not provide a full explanation, the book goes far toward answering the question. Cazorla Sánchez, who has previously explored this problem elsewhere, divides the dictator's life into chronological periods described in the language of Francoist mythology; the chapters bear titles such as “Military Hero,” “Saviour of Spain,” “Man of Peace,” and “Bestower of Prosperity.” Each chapter examines Franco's image as it appeared in a variety of public forums, including the press, biographies, his speeches, and newsreels. As suggested by the chapter titles, the author often adopts an ironic tone in his narrative, highlighting the stark contrasts between Franco's thoughts and actions and how they appeared in subsequent official memories. Cazorla Sánchez makes no attempt to hide his antipathy toward Franco, whom he describes as “a self-promoting opportunist” and “a cruel man whose authoritarian rule caused an enormous amount of damage to Spain” (p. 4).

Art · Biography · Dictator · HERO · Literature · Mythology · Narrative · Political science · Politics · Prosperity · Sociology · Variety (cybernetics) · Historical and Contemporary Political Dynamics · Historical Studies and Socio-cultural Analysis · History · Italian Fascism and Post-war Society · Law