The economic legacy of Juan Carlos I: impact of his official trips on Spain.

The recent presentation of the book "Anchor of the Windward. The Official Trips of Juan Carlos I and the Economic Growth of Spain" has highlighted the positive impact that the figure of the former King had on the Spanish economy during his reign. Elena San Román, a professor of Contemporary History and co-author of the study, provides us with a comprehensive view of Don Juan Carlos's diplomatic travels between 1976 and 2014, revealing that these trips spurred a notable increase of 4.1% in Spanish exports. This finding suggests a direct connection between the monarch's foreign actions and the economic growth of the country, raising the need to reassess his legacy. San Román argues that the institutional structure of a parliamentary monarchy, like the Spanish one, provides stability and continuity in international relations. In critical times for Spain, Don Juan Carlos was not only a symbol of trust but also facilitated a favorable environment for foreign investment and the expansion of foreign trade. His role as "champion of the Transition" extended beyond Spain's borders, establishing diplomatic relations that positioned the country as a reliable partner on the global stage. The data provided by the study reveals that the repetition of trips to specific countries was essential for the growth of exports. The research shows that the King made a total of 226 official trips during his reign, with Europe and Ibero-America being the most frequented regions. Initially, political factors dominated the choice of destinations, but as democracy consolidated, economic aspects began to play a more prominent role. This not only helped modernize the Spanish economy but also allowed national companies to internationalize and position themselves in emerging markets. It is interesting to note that, while the monarch's trips were aimed at consolidating democracy and the image of Spain abroad, they also played a crucial role in creating trade networks and attracting investments. Access to the European Economic Community in 1986 was a significant milestone that, according to San Román, was partly facilitated by Don Juan Carlos's diplomatic efforts. This access allowed Spain to integrate into a broad and competitive market, transforming the national economy. The impact of the King's travels was not limited to the economy. Their effects can also be observed in the construction of the concept of Hispanicity and in strengthening cultural and strategic ties with Ibero-America. The Ibero-American Summits, which began in 1991, were an example of how the King's diplomacy helped consolidate Spain's role as a significant investor in the region, promoting not only trade but also cooperation in various areas. Despite these contributions, San Román points out that the perception of the Spanish people regarding Don Juan Carlos has largely focused on his political role during the Transition, overshadowing his economic influence. With this book, the authors seek to highlight the importance of his work in the economic sphere, which, although less known, is equally relevant to understanding the full impact of his reign. The discussion about the figure of Don Juan Carlos also extends to his legacy in the context of the 2008 crisis. During this period, his diplomatic agenda intensified, helping Spanish companies explore new markets during a time of global recession. His ability to generate trust and establish relationships abroad was crucial in facilitating Spain's exit from the crisis, contributing to the growth and recovery of the national economy. Thus, the book "Anchor of the Windward" not only highlights the essential role that Don Juan Carlos played in the Spanish economy but also invites a broader analysis of the importance of institutions and diplomacy in a country's economic development. The work emphasizes that, in an increasingly interconnected world, the figure of the head of state can significantly influence a nation's international projection. Finally, San Román's reflections and those of her co-authors suggest that Don Juan Carlos's legacy should be remembered not only for his role in politics but also for his impact on the economy. In a context where stability and trust are fundamental for development, it becomes evident that the analysis of his figure must include his ability to strengthen international relations and his influence on the economic growth of Spain.