Generalísimo Francisco Franco was declared Caudillo de España soon after the conclusion of the Spanish Civil War. Following a brutal three-year conflict, Franco's Nationalist forces, supported by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, defeated the Republican side, which comprised various groups including socialists, communists, and anarchists. The declaration transformed Franco's status from a military general to a supreme leader, effectively formalizing his governance structure in Spain. This came at a time when the country was grappling with the aftermath of the civil war, with deep ideological divisions and economic struggles.

The title 'Caudillo,' originally meaning 'chieftain' or 'leader,' resonated with Franco's ambitions of establishing a totalitarian regime. Initially, Franco promised to restore order and national unity, presenting himself as the defender of traditional Spanish values. However, his tenure was marked by widespread repression, censorship, and the execution of political opponents. Franco's regime utilized propaganda to fortify his image while implementing policies that suppressed regional identities, notably in Catalonia and the Basque Country. This authoritarian rule would persist until his death in 1975, leaving lingering effects on Spanish society and politics.

Franco's establishment as Caudillo was not just a moment of personal triumph but also a critical turning point that influenced Spanish politics for decades. His dictatorship shaped Spain's post-war identity, leading to significant economic policies later in the 1960s that resulted in rapid growth but also social inequality. The legacy of his rule remained a contentious issue well after his death, as Spain transitioned to democracy, grappling with how to confront the past of repression and conflict.