The Best of All Possible Islands

Set against the backdrop of the 1992 world's fair in Seville, the narrative explores Spain's evolving democracy and Europe's unification. The Expo, attracting over fourteen million visitors, showcased a hopeful vision of a "new Spain" amidst significant political tensions and public dissent. Richard Maddox reveals how both attendees and locals interpreted the event in ways that diverged from the organizers' intentions. This examination sheds light on Spain's transformation post-Franco and the cultural and political challenges posed by European integration for democratic societies.