Φράνκο, or Francisco Franco, was a Spanish military general and dictator who ruled Spain from 1939 until his death in 1975. He came to power after leading a successful coup during the Spanish Civil War, which lasted from 1936 to 1939. Franco's regime was characterized by authoritarianism, nationalism, and repression of political dissent. Under Franco's rule, Spain experienced significant economic changes, including industrialization and modernization. However, his government was also marked by censorship, political persecution, and the suppression of regional identities, particularly in Catalonia and the Basque Country. After his death, Spain transitioned to democracy, leading to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.