# Congress of Deputies
Who / What
The **Congress of Deputies** is the lower house of Spain’s bicameral legislative body, the **Cortes Generales**, alongside the Senate. It serves as the primary chamber for drafting and debating laws, representing the people through elected deputies.
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Background & History
Founded in 1836 during the reign of King Ferdinand VII, the Congress of Deputies was established to replace the old Cortes of Cádiz, which had been dissolved after Spain’s constitutional crisis. It evolved from a unicameral assembly into its current bicameral form with the Senate in 1978 under Spain’s post-Franco democratic transition. Key milestones include its role during the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) and its modernized structure following the 2011 electoral reforms, which introduced proportional representation.
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Why Notable
The Congress of Deputies holds immense political significance as Spain’s primary legislative body, shaping national policies, approving budgets, and overseeing government actions. Its deputies are directly elected by citizens, ensuring democratic accountability. Historically, it has been a battleground for ideological conflicts, including during the transition to democracy after Franco’s dictatorship.
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In the News
As Spain navigates political instability—including recent regional tensions and coalition negotiations—the Congress of Deputies remains central to legislative processes. Recent developments highlight its role in addressing economic challenges, climate policy debates, and constitutional reforms amid shifting electoral dynamics.
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