Intellectual Controversies on Spanish Elites

Abstract

The objective of this article is to analyze the intellectual and academic controversies surrounding Spanish elites since the last third of the 19th century. To this end, a review of the relevant scientific literature and primary sources is conducted. The controversies concerning the elites will be examined in three historical periods: the last third of the 19th century and the early years of the 20th century, during the Francoist dictatorship, and finally, from the transition to democracy to the present day. In these periods, the analysis will focus on the debates regarding their composition on one hand, and their character on the other. The article concludes by demonstrating that recent debates have predominantly centered on their character rather than their composition, and highlights the limited role attributed to women.