The director of the documentary 'The Landing of Alhucemas', Juanma Sayago, has revealed to OKDIARIO the capitulation of Pedro Sánchez to Morocco, which has led to the neglect of one of the most internationally recognized military achievements, orchestrated by Miguel Primo de Rivera. Sayago, who is also the coordinator of the Institute of Culture at the Disenso Foundation, bluntly states, "Neither to disturb Morocco nor to offend the Sultan." This week, the documentary was presented in the Congress of Deputies and is scheduled for screenings in Ceuta and Melilla shortly.
The legendary amphibious operation led by Miguel Primo de Rivera and then Colonel Francisco Franco effectively pacified the Spanish Protectorate in Morocco. However, Sayago claims that the current government feels discomfort regarding this victory due to its implications for the historical memory narrative. He argues that the underlying reason for this reluctance stems from the government's submission to Morocco.
The Political Implications of Historical Memory
When questioned whether the Law of Democratic Memory sometimes extends beyond the temporal margins concerning historical figures like those involved in the landing at Alhucemas, Sayago responded that while this law primarily focuses on the period from 1931 to 1976, it is more closely tied to the current government's stance towards Morocco. The government aims to avoid highlighting a historical episode that could provoke discomfort or shame for King Mohammed VI. This situation emphasizes the significance of historical interpretation and political conviction.
Sayago elaborated on why recalling a legendary episode in Spanish history might upset Morocco, explaining that when history becomes politicized, a narrative is imposed that often distinguishes between 'good' and 'bad'. In this context, Spain's military engagement was against the Riffian tribes rather than those under the Sultan's authority, yet Sánchez opts to avoid any potential offense to Morocco regarding an event where Spain emerged victorious and established peace in the Protectorate.
The documentary illustrates that the landing at Alhucemas was a monumental military feat, an amphibious mission during the interwar period that served as a precedent for operations in World War II. Sayago emphasizes its significance for Spanish military history, claiming it could be considered one of Spain's last major international military actions. Following this, the Spanish Civil War erupted, and Spain maintained neutrality during World War II, leading to limited military interventions.
This operation was pivotal not only because of its immediate success but also due to the collaboration between Spain and France, with Miguel Primo de Rivera directly involved in operations that combined land, sea, and air forces. The complexity of the operation was substantial, involving naval ships and troops executing military actions from the sea, reconnaissance missions, and strategic bombings.
Legacy and Current Implications
Sayago points out that prior to this operation, few successful examples existed, citing the failed Gallipoli campaign by English and French forces. However, the success of Alhucemas would later be studied as a model by the Allies during World War II. This historical episode also played a role in the shifting power dynamics in North Africa, with Spain acting as a buffer against German imperial ambitions in the region.
When discussing the discomfort surrounding the remembrance of figures such as Miguel Primo de Rivera and Francisco Franco, Sayago notes the political sensitivities tied to their legacies. While Primo de Rivera led the military operation, Franco emerged as a key military leader whose experiences in Africa significantly influenced his role in the Spanish Civil War. Although Primo de Rivera is less affected by the Law of Democratic Memory, Franco is not spared from its implications, having seen his last statue removed just a few years ago due to this legislation.
The documentary also sheds light on the historical context of military service in Spain, explaining how the pacification of the Protectorate led to the establishment of military bases where Spanish forces were stationed and how the unpopular war in Morocco contributed to civil unrest, including events like the Tragic Week in Barcelona.
Despite calls in Congress to commemorate the centenary of the Alhucemas landing, the initiative faced rejection from several political parties. In contrast, Morocco celebrated the Annual Disaster of 1921, which resulted in significant Spanish casualties, highlighting the ongoing complexities of Spanish-Moroccan relations and the political narratives surrounding them.
Looking toward the future, particularly regarding Western Sahara, Sayago argues that Spain must embrace its role as an arbitrator in the democratic process for the region's independence. He emphasizes the importance of a strong national identity and conviction in defending territorial integrity, especially in the face of contemporary challenges such as immigration used as a hybrid warfare tool.
As reported by okdiario.com.
