The period of repression described in "A History of Spain" by Arturo Pérez-Reverte was severe and brutal, with harsh penalties imposed on those who opposed the regime. Any expression of dissent, including strikes or political opposition, could lead to the death penalty. This climate of fear was characterized by strict control, rendering any organized resistance impossible.

The banning of political parties and the prohibition of all union activities left both workers and peasants vulnerable and unprotected. Without the ability to organize or advocate for their rights, they found themselves at the mercy of a repressive government that sought to maintain absolute power through oppression.