LA COMUNICACIÓN DICTATORIAL DEL RIESGO: EL CASO PALOMARES 1966 EN ESPAÑA.

The objective of this research is to analyze the communicative strategies of the dictatorial government of General Franco in Spain after the 1966 American air crash that resulted in the scattering of four thermonuclear bombs on the beaches of Palomares (Almeria). The methodology applied is the analysis of previous research, publications in the press at the time of the incident, and cinematographic documents. The results establish two phases. The first phase included strict censorship and a light-hearted view of the facts, avoiding damage to the image of Spain as a tourist destination or to relations with the United States. The second phase, after news of the nuclear risk had already been spread by independent radio stations despite the seizure of foreign press, included communications that highlighted decontamination work, the scientific level of Spain and collaboration with the USA. The results confirm the effectiveness of the "Fraga's bath" and the symbolic role of the Duchess of Medina-Sidonia. It is concluded that the dictatorial strategy of concealing relevant information tends to overstate the scandal due to the intensity of global repercussions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]