Felipe Gonzalez Marquez

Under González's government, the state-sponsored death squads known as GAL (Grupos Antiterroristas de Liberación) waged a dirty war against ETA. The scandal led to the conviction of senior officials and damaged González's reputation, though he denied direct knowledge.

González called a referendum on Spain's continued membership in NATO, which he had previously opposed. He campaigned for a 'yes' vote, arguing that membership was necessary for modernization. The referendum passed with 52.5% approval.

González's government successfully negotiated Spain's accession to the European Economic Community. This integration ended Spain's isolation and brought significant economic modernization, including structural funds and market access.