- 1. The Anatomy of a Moment by Javier Cercas is a compelling narrative that delves into the intricate events surrounding the failed coup d'état in Spain on February 23, 1981, a pivotal moment in the country's transition to democracy after a long period of dictatorship. Cercas employs a meticulous approach to reconstruct the tense atmosphere of that day, blending historical facts with vivid storytelling and character analysis. He examines the role of key figures involved, including politicians and military leaders, while probing the motivations and psychological underpinnings that influenced their decisions. Beyond just a historical recounting, Cercas invites readers to reflect on the fragility of democracy and the critical junctures that define political landscapes. With a masterful narrative style, he explores themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal, ultimately crafting a nuanced portrait of a nation grappling with its past and future. The book stands not only as a historical account but also as an exploration of the human condition in the face of political turmoil.
The book is a detailed analysis of which specific historical event?
A) Spain's transition to democracy
B) The death of Francisco Franco
C) The Spanish Civil War
D) The failed 1981 coup d'état in Spain
- 2. Which three political figures does Cercas focus on for remaining seated during the coup?
A) Antonio Tejero, Alfonso Armada, and Jaime Milans del Bosch
B) Adolfo Suárez, Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo, and Fernando Abril
C) Adolfo Suárez, Santiago Carrillo, and General Gutiérrez Mellado
D) King Juan Carlos, Felipe González, and Manuel Fraga
- 3. Who was the Prime Minister of Spain at the time of the coup?
A) Felipe González
B) Adolfo Suárez
C) Manuel Fraga
D) Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo
- 4. The coup attempt is also popularly known by what name?
A) The Armada Plot
B) 20-N
C) 23-F
D) The Tejerazo
- 5. Santiago Carrillo was the leader of which political party?
A) Union of the Democratic Centre (UCD)
B) People's Alliance (AP)
C) Spanish Communist Party (PCE)
D) Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE)
- 6. What was the primary aim of the coup plotters?
A) To reverse the democratic process and restore a Francoist-style regime
B) To accelerate the transition to democracy
C) To grant independence to Catalonia
D) To install a communist government
- 7. Cercas argues that the three men seated in parliament represented what?
A) The pillars of the new, fragile Spanish democracy
B) The most powerful economic interests in Spain
C) The international community's support for Spain
D) The old guard of the Franco regime
- 8. The book suggests that the failed coup ultimately had what effect on Spain?
A) It consolidated the democratic transition.
B) It delayed the democratic transition for a decade.
C) It led to the rise of separatist movements.
D) It had no significant long-term effect.
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