Page 4 - Garda Journal Summer 2019

Guardia Civil 175th Anniversary
The Spanish Guardia Civil celebrated its 175th anniversary on 13th May, 2019, which was marked by a commemorative event. By Susie Poore.
The anniversary was commemorated with celebrations all across Madrid and a parade of over 900 officers, motorcyclists, horse guards, and aircraft teams. This all took place before they were formally recognised by both King Felipe and leading politicians for their dedication to the protection and preservation of justice in Spain. Considering it is uncommon to hear about such an extravagant celebration being thrown for a law enforcement agency, one might wonder why it was necessary for the Guardia Civil. However, a closer look at its nearly two centuries worth of history shows that the Guardia Civil has functioned as much more than a police force in Spain.
Think of Spanish society as an anthropology filled with collected works that span decades, political
movements, social uprisings, and seemingly insurmountable division. Behind each of these diverse pieces—from the bloodshed of the Spanish Civil War to the instability of new monarchies to the first attempt at democracy—there always remains one contributing author: the Spanish Guardia Civil. During its 175 years, the corps has proved itself an integral actor in unifying and shaping the very fabric of Spain.
Think of Spanish society as an anthropology filled with collected works that span decades, political
4 GARDA JOURNAL
“
movements, social uprisings, and seemingly insurmountable division.”
FEATURE | Guardia Civil 175th Anniversary