# **Antonio Tejero Molina**
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Who / What
Antonio Tejero Molina was a Spanish lieutenant colonel of the Guardia Civil, best known for his pivotal role in the failed 1981 military coup attempt against Spain’s democratic government. His actions during the *23-F* (23 February) coup—storming the Congress of Deputies with armed guards—made him one of the most infamous figures in modern Spanish history.
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Background & History
Born on **30 April 1932**, Tejero joined the Guardia Civil, Spain’s national police force, during the Francoist regime. His early career included involvement in Operation *Galaxia* (1978), another failed coup attempt against President Adolfo Suárez. After the 1981 coup, he became a symbol of authoritarian resistance to Spain’s transition to democracy.
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Why Notable
Tejero’s actions during the 1981 coup—seizing the Congress and holding deputies hostage—shaped public perception of military rebellion in post-Franco Spain. His trial led to a **30-year prison sentence**, though he was released in 2017 under amnesty for political crimes. Though politically marginalized, his legacy persists as a controversial figure in Spain’s democratic struggles.
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In the News
Tejero remains a polarizing historical figure, often referenced in debates about military involvement in politics and Spain’s democratic consolidation. While no longer active in public life, his case continues to influence discussions on amnesty laws and the role of institutions during transitions to democracy.
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Key Facts
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