The Enduring Legacy of 23-F: How Spain’s Attempted Coup Still Shapes Political Storytelling – and What It Signals for Future Crises
Nearly 43 years after Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Tejero stormed the Spanish Congress, shouting “Everyone stay still!”, the events of February 23, 1981 – known as 23-F – continue to resonate. More than just a historical footnote, the attempted coup is experiencing a resurgence in cultural relevance, most notably with Movistar Plus+’s new series, Anatomy of a Moment. This isn’t simply nostalgia; it’s a reflection of a growing global anxiety about democratic fragility and the enduring power of narratives surrounding pivotal moments of crisis.
Why Now? The Resurgence of 23-F in Popular Culture
The timing of Anatomy of a Moment, directed by Alberto Rodríguez and starring Álvaro Morte and Eduard Fernandez, is no accident. The series, based on Javier Cercas’ acclaimed book, arrives at a moment when democratic institutions worldwide are facing unprecedented challenges – from disinformation campaigns to rising political polarization. The story of three men – Adolfo Suárez, Santiago Carrillo, and Gutiérrez Mellado – who stood firm in the face of armed insurrection offers a potent, if complex, symbol of resistance and resolve. This renewed interest in 23-F isn’t just about revisiting history; it’s about understanding the vulnerabilities inherent in democratic systems and the individuals who defend them.
Beyond the Drama: The Psychological Impact of Political Instability
What makes 23-F so compelling, and why does it continue to be dramatized, is the sheer psychological tension of the event. The series, like Cercas’ book, delves into the internal states of the key players, exploring their motivations and fears. This focus on individual psychology is crucial. Research in political science increasingly demonstrates that public trust in institutions is deeply affected not just by policy outcomes, but by perceptions of leadership during times of crisis. The image of Suárez, Carrillo, and Mellado remaining seated became a powerful symbol of stability, even as chaos unfolded around them. This highlights a critical lesson: effective leadership during a crisis requires not only decisive action but also a visible demonstration of courage and conviction.
The Role of Media and Historical Narrative
The way 23-F is portrayed – in film, television, and literature – significantly shapes public understanding of the event. Each retelling is an interpretation, influenced by contemporary concerns and perspectives. Anatomy of a Moment, for example, is likely to be viewed through the lens of current political anxieties. This raises important questions about the responsibility of filmmakers and storytellers to accurately represent historical events while also engaging with their contemporary relevance. The series’ focus on the “anatomy of an instant” suggests a desire to dissect the moment, to understand the complex interplay of factors that led to the attempted coup and the forces that ultimately thwarted it. This approach is a departure from more straightforward historical dramas and signals a trend towards more nuanced and psychologically driven storytelling about political events.
Future Trends: Crisis Narratives and the Search for Stability
The renewed interest in 23-F foreshadows a broader trend: an increased demand for stories that explore moments of political and social upheaval. As global instability continues, audiences will likely seek narratives that offer insights into how societies respond to crises, the role of leadership, and the fragility of democratic institutions. We can expect to see more films, television series, and books that grapple with these themes, often drawing parallels between historical events and contemporary challenges. This trend isn’t limited to Spain; similar narratives are emerging in countries grappling with political polarization, economic uncertainty, and social unrest.
The Rise of “Counterfactual History”
Related to this trend is the growing popularity of “counterfactual history” – stories that explore “what if” scenarios. What if Tejero had succeeded? What if Suárez had reacted differently? These thought experiments allow audiences to grapple with the contingency of history and to consider the potential consequences of different choices. This type of storytelling can be particularly powerful in fostering critical thinking and encouraging a deeper understanding of the factors that shape political outcomes. Brookings Institute research highlights the value of counterfactual analysis in understanding complex geopolitical events.
The enduring fascination with 23-F, and its latest iteration in Anatomy of a Moment, serves as a potent reminder that the defense of democracy is an ongoing process. It’s a process that requires not only strong institutions and effective leadership but also a collective understanding of the past and a willingness to confront the challenges of the present. What lessons from February 23, 1981, will resonate most strongly with audiences today, and how will those lessons shape our understanding of the future of democracy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
