In a marked moment of tension in Spanish politics, Antonio Tejero led an armed incursion into the Congress of Deputies in Madrid, aiming to destabilize the fledgling democracy in Spain. The coup attempt occurred during a session where lawmakers were discussing an important defense budget. With a group of around 200 Civil Guard officers, Tejero stormed the building, brandishing firearms, and declared that the army had taken control of the government. The dramatic scenes unfolded live on television, capturing the nation’s attention as they watched their representatives being held hostage. Among those present was Prime Minister Adolfo Suárez, who would ultimately demonstrate remarkable composure during the critical hours that followed. The coup was an expression of the conservative military factions that remained disillusioned with the transition to democracy after the end of Francisco Franco's rule. Several senior military leaders supported Tejero’s actions, believing that the country needed a return to more authoritarian governance to maintain order. However, the coup faced immediate resistance, particularly from the King of Spain, Juan Carlos I, who took a decisive stand against the insurrection, appearing on television to denounce it and express his support for constitutional legitimacy. His intervention was pivotal in rallying public and military resistance against the coup, leading to its failure within hours.Despite the initial chaos and fear, the failed coup attempt reinforced Spain's commitment to democracy and initiated a shift in the political landscape. It solidified the role of the monarchy in a democratic society, as King Juan Carlos emerged as a symbol of stability and modern governance. The event highlighted the struggles Spain faced in its transition from dictatorship to democracy, as many factions grappled with the new political order. In the aftermath, Spain moved forward with democratic reforms and further distanced itself from its authoritarian past.