Antonio Tejero, Architect of 23-F, Dies at 93
The former Lieutenant Colonel of the Civil Guard, Antonio Tejero Molina, a central figure in Spain’s attempted coup d’état on February 23, 1981 – known as 23-F – has died at the age of 93. His death marks the end of an era and reopens questions surrounding the motivations and consequences of this pivotal moment in Spanish democracy.
Tejero’s actions on that fateful night, storming the Spanish Congress during the investiture of Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo, sent shockwaves across the nation and the international community. While the coup ultimately failed, its impact on Spain’s political landscape remains profound.
The Night of 23-F: A Nation Held Breath
On February 23, 1981, as the Spanish Congress of Deputies was preparing to vote on Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo as the new Prime Minister, a group of approximately 200 Civil Guard officers, led by Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Tejero, forcibly entered the chamber. Tejero and his men held the parliamentarians hostage at gunpoint, demanding the release of imprisoned military personnel and a reversal of regional autonomy policies. The event was broadcast live on television, captivating a stunned nation.
The motives behind the coup remain a subject of debate. Some historians argue that Tejero acted on his own initiative, driven by a staunchly conservative and anti-democratic ideology. Others suggest he was part of a wider conspiracy involving elements within the military and far-right political groups. Tejero’s own interrogations following the event revealed a complex and often contradictory account of his actions.
The swift response of King Juan Carlos I proved crucial in thwarting the coup. In a televised address, the King condemned the actions of the rebels and reaffirmed his commitment to the democratic process. This decisive intervention galvanized public support for democracy and effectively undermined the coup’s legitimacy.
What if King Juan Carlos had not acted so decisively? Could the outcome of 23-F have been different, potentially altering the course of Spanish history?
Tejero’s death brings to a close a chapter marked by political turmoil and a fragile transition to democracy. His legacy remains controversial, viewed by some as a traitor and by others as a misguided patriot. His role as the “executor” of 23-F has been consistently emphasized in historical accounts.
The Tejero family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Reports indicate a desire for silence and discretion at the family home in Valencia.
Tejero passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a complex and controversial legacy.
Did the events of 23-F ultimately strengthen Spanish democracy, or did they leave lasting scars on the nation’s political psyche?
Frequently Asked Questions About Antonio Tejero and 23-F
Who was Antonio Tejero?
Antonio Tejero Molina was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Civil Guard who led the attempted coup d’état on February 23, 1981, known as 23-F. He stormed the Spanish Congress, holding parliamentarians hostage in an attempt to overthrow the democratic government.
What were the primary goals of the 23-F coup attempt?
The stated goals of the coup included the release of imprisoned military personnel and a reversal of the regional autonomy policies implemented after the end of Franco’s dictatorship. However, the underlying motivations remain a subject of debate.
What role did King Juan Carlos I play in stopping the coup?
King Juan Carlos I played a pivotal role in thwarting the coup by delivering a televised address condemning the actions of the rebels and reaffirming his commitment to the democratic process. This intervention galvanized public support for democracy.
How did the 23-F coup attempt impact Spanish democracy?
While the coup ultimately failed, it had a profound impact on Spanish democracy, strengthening the resolve of democratic forces and solidifying the country’s commitment to constitutional rule. It also highlighted the fragility of the democratic transition.
What is the lasting legacy of Antonio Tejero?
Antonio Tejero’s legacy remains controversial. He is viewed by some as a traitor and by others as a misguided patriot. His actions continue to be debated and analyzed by historians and political scientists.
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