Story perspectives

Spain Declassifies 153 Documents on 1981 Coup

2/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Spain declassified 153 documents on February 25, 2026, about the February 23, 1981 coup.
The documents, published on La Moncloa website, include transcripts of military conversations and intelligence reports.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the release an act to settle a historical debt.
Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Tejero led the coup, aiming to disrupt Leopoldo Calvo Sotelo's parliamentary vote.
The release coincides with stalled legislation to reform Spain's Official Secrets Law.

History

Historical Context

The failed coup attempt on February 23, 1981, led by Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Tejero, aimed to disrupt Spain's democratic transition during a parliamentary vote. King Juan Carlos I's decisive rejection of the coup solidified the monarchy's legitimacy and marked the end of serious Francoist threats to democracy. Recent document declassifications by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reflect ongoing efforts to address Spain's authoritarian past and promote accountability.

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Story summary

Spain declassified 153 documents on February 25, 2026, about the February 23, 1981 coup.
The documents, published on La Moncloa website, include transcripts of military conversations and intelligence reports.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the release an act to settle a historical debt.
Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Tejero led the coup, aiming to disrupt Leopoldo Calvo Sotelo's parliamentary vote.
The release coincides with stalled legislation to reform Spain's Official Secrets Law.

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