Monarchy and Francoism: Reflections on the new ID card and its legacy in Spain.

The recent historical review of the role of the monarchy in Spain has unleashed a torrent of reflections on its legacy, especially in relation to Francoism. Following the proclamation of the new ID card bearing the inscription "KINGDOM OF SPAIN," many are questioning what meanings lie behind this designation and how it connects with the country’s recent history. The Royal House, in presenting its chapter titled "The Monarchy in the History of Spain," finds itself at a point where the past and present seem inextricably intertwined. Analyzing the current situation reminds us that, since the end of the Spanish Civil War, the monarchy has existed under the shadow of Francoism. In this context, the new identity document becomes a symbol of that continuity. By subtracting 1947 from 2025, we find 78 years of a kingdom that, despite its proclamation under a dictatorial regime, has maintained its relevance to this day. This period has been marked by a palpable fear that, although it has gradually faded, still leaves its imprint on politics and public perception. One reflection that emerges from this analysis is how the Transition began without accommodating the republican option, a fact that many view as a betrayal of popular will. The figure of Don Juan de Borbón, the legitimate heir, is seen by some as an option that could have avoided the "tied up and well tied" situation that so troubles critics of the system. In fact, it is argued that his reign could have provided a cleaner start, less entangled with the Francoist legacy. The dominance of the historical narrative by the monarchy becomes evident when considering that of the 2,279 words in the Royal House document, only 94 refer to the last 78 years. This fact not only denotes a lack of self-criticism but also reflects a manipulation of history that seeks to distance the present from an uncomfortable past. The history of the monarchy, in this sense, turns into a game of appearances, where current achievements are presented as evidence of progress, ignoring the problematic roots that sustain them. The recent controversy surrounding the relationship between La Zarzuela and La Moncloa adds another layer of complexity to the debate. The decision to include "KINGDOM OF SPAIN" on the ID card has been interpreted by many as an attempt to reaffirm the monarchy in the face of independence movements. This political action seems more directed towards a strategy of power than a true commitment to democracy and the popular will. Here, important questions arise about the nature of the collaboration between the king and the president of the government. In a context where both the monarchy and the government strive to legitimize their positions, it is essential to question whether they are truly listening to the voice of the people. Is it possible that the Spanish people, mostly republican, feel represented by a monarchy still tied to the remnants of a dictatorial regime? Hidden surveys, strategic decisions, and historical manipulations are elements that should be exposed in the name of true democratic regeneration. However, the fear of transparency persists, and the secrecy law that has kept certain surveys hidden for over half a century is an excellent example of this. The question becomes inevitable: when will citizens be allowed access to the information that concerns them? The lack of political will to address these issues suggests that both the government and the monarchy prefer to maintain the status quo rather than confront the reality of a country that, although changing, still bears the scars of its history. The perception that the "KINGDOM OF SPAIN" is an attempt by institutions to silence and suppress dissenting voices is also a cause for concern. While some sectors of the population celebrate the new ID card design, others see it as a reminder of a history that has yet to be fully confronted. In this case, history becomes a mirror reflecting the tensions between modernity and the legacy of the past. Thus, the monarchy, far from being a symbol of unity and progress, appears as a vestige of an era that many would like to leave behind. The lack of an inclusive narrative that acknowledges the complexities of the past contributes to the perpetuation of a system that continues to be seen as an extension of Francoism. This is the moment to demand a critical review and an opening to dialogue about what is desired for the future of Spain. In conclusion, the "KINGDOM OF SPAIN" on the ID card is more than a mere designation; it is a symbol of a past that cannot be ignored. The monarchy must confront its legacy and work towards greater transparency and reconciliation with history. Only then can it aspire to be a true symbol of unity in a country that, despite all its divisions, yearns for a more democratic and just future.