Von Marlis Zoschke
Under Franco’s leadership, and with Italian and German support, Franco seized power in a coup and became head of state. He ruled the Kingdom of Spain for 39 years. Then, in 1947, he restored the monarchy in Spain – though without appointing a king.
Franco’s greatest achievement is surely that he refused to involve his country in the Second World War and was able to maintain its neutrality. Only those who lived through the Second World War and can still remember it can truly appreciate what the country and its people were spared as a result.
This is not a tribute to Franco, because crimes cannot be offset by anything good. It is rather an attempt to understand the people who once dedicated a monument to Franco. For me, it is a bit too much for such a small islet.
Is a compromise possible for the Franco monument on Tenerife?
If the entire structure were to be demolished, no one could have a clearer conscience. After all, injustice cannot be erased by destroying buildings. Preserving whatever can be saved should be the priority. It is, after all, part of a country’s culture – even if that culture is negative. It serves as a reminder that everyone should be aware of. No Spaniard alive today needs to feel guilty about it.
Why not ask an architect for once how this monstrous structure could be altered without too much effort or expense (it would certainly be cheaper than building the cable car) so that the complainers and know-it-alls can have their say?
In addition, a plaque could be erected setting out the key historical dates and stating that this is a memorial – and not a glorification of a dictator. That would be a compromise. And that is what a democracy thrives on.
Our reader correspondent, Marlis Zoschke, regularly writes about her experiences over many decades in the Canary Islands. You can find more of her articles here.
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