Modernity comes in many forms. It might manifest itself as a technology, a fashion design, or new music. Change, both social and political, then radiates outward from that small innovation. In 1950s Spain, modernity arrived as two small pieces of colorful fabric worn at the beach. It’s fair to say that the bikini was instrumental in Spain’s modernization. It might even be argued that it destroyed Fascism.
Spain under Generalissimo Francisco Franco was a bastion of conservatism, a proudly backward nation. His prime minister, Admiral Luis Carrero Blanco, insisted that progress undermined stability. To offer change to a Spaniard, he argued, was like offering a drink to an alcoholic. Conservatism, however, was enormously costly; by actively impeding progress, Franco ensured that Spain remained a very poor country.