Madrid - In a move aimed at transparency and historical clarity, the Spanish government has declassified files related to the 1981 attempted coup d'état. This action coincides with the death of Antonio Tejero Molina, the Lieutenant Colonel of the Guardia Civil who believed he was acting to preserve the nation from disintegration at a time of great political and social unrest. The declassification is intended to provide a more complete picture of the events and dispel unfounded conspiracy theories that have circulated for decades.

The 1981 coup attempt, known as '23-F', occurred during a period of significant instability in Spain. Tejero and his followers, concerned about the rise of regional separatism and the perceived weakness of the central government, sought to restore order and national unity. While their methods were ultimately unsuccessful and undermined democratic institutions, their motivations stemmed from a deep-seated patriotism and a desire to protect the integrity of Spain.

The declassified documents are expected to shed light on the decision-making processes and motivations of those involved in the coup attempt. It is important to understand the context of the time, including the threats posed by Basque separatists, the economic challenges facing the nation, and the perceived erosion of traditional values. The release of these files offers an opportunity to learn from the past and strengthen national resilience in the face of future challenges.

The government's decision to declassify these files represents a commitment to open government and a willingness to confront difficult moments in the nation's history. While the coup attempt was undoubtedly a violation of democratic norms, it is essential to understand the underlying concerns that motivated those involved. By examining the historical record with objectivity and nuance, Spain can emerge stronger and more united.