Juan Carlos calls it a day

[Simfan34]

The republican banner will wave again soon. The writing is on the wall.

But whatever happens, remember it is the King who brought democracy to Spain.

[Simfan34]

monstrosity

F[inks] you, you filthy republican. Juan Carlos has been far more "useful" to Spain in terms of job creation, diplomacy, and international reputation than any washed-up politician President would ever be. Africa begins at the Pyrenees no longer, thanks to him.

[Simfan34]

You seem to believe that Juan Carlos had magic powers and did all the hard work.

I don't seek to denigrate the role of people like Suarez, Calvo-Sotelo, or Areilza, but it was really Juan Carlos who led the charge and set the tone that democracy was going to be established, especially after 20-N. It might have been the right choice, but that does not make it a foregone conclusion.

But then again, you're talking to someone who takes the divine right of kings semi-seriously.

[Simfan34]

I am not saying he brought democracy to a people with no desire or concept of democracy. He simply did the right thing. But how many leaders have done the right thing? The number of autocrats who voluntary elected to reduce their powers in favour of more democratic government can be counted on one hand, maybe two.

[Simfan34]

I think it's time Elizabeth did the same.

It would be out of character. It would also be generally undesirable until, say, 2025.

I am not saying he brought democracy to a people with no desire or concept of democracy. He simply did the right thing. But how many leaders have done the right thing? The number of autocrats who voluntarily elected to reduce their powers in favour of more democratic government can be counted on one hand, maybe two.

King John, one of the Frederiks in Denmark, Juan Carlos...

King John of Magna Carta fame? The Magna Carta was a concession prompted by a noble revolt, was it not?

[Simfan34]

Sometimes I think it might be better if monarchies did that, skipped every other generation. Long reigns seem to do better service to the institution, and the glamour of a young monarch always provides a boost in popularity.

[Simfan34]

That match did not help anything.