King of Spain Juan Carlos Abdicates after 40 Year on Throne (Video)
In this photo released by the Royal Palace on Monday, June 2, 2014, Spain's King Juan Carlos signs a document in the Zarzuela Palace opening the way for his abdication. Spain's King Juan Carlos plans to abdicate and pave the way for his son, Crown Prince Felipe, to take over, Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy told the country Monday in an announcement broadcast nationwide. The 76-year-old Juan Carlos oversaw his country's transition from dictatorship to democracy but has had repeated health problems in recent years. AP Photo/Spanish Royal Palace
King Juan Carlos will abdicate in favor of his son, Prince Felipe. The 76-year-old king had been dogged by a series of health problems and scandals.
76-year-old Juan Carlos in credited with overseeing Spain’s smooth transition from dictatorship to democracy. His son 46-year-old Crown Prince Felipe will now succeed him.
Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy made the announcement Monday explaining the king was stepping down for personal reasons, but analysts took that to mean Juan Carlos was leaving the throne because he lost public support.
Until fairly recently the king’s popularity was high but a series of missteps coupled with poor economy had many calling for him to step aside. His reputation took a hit in 2012 when it was revealed he went on an expensive elephant hunting trip, at a time when Spain was in the middle of a recession and millions were unemployed.
Making things worse his daughter Princess Cristina and her husband are currently caught up in a long running investigation into their spending habits.
Epoch Video
Author
Bringing you the latest videos, livestreams, and premieres.
King of Spain Juan Carlos Abdicates after 40 Year on Throne (Video)
King Juan Carlos will abdicate in favor of his son, Prince Felipe. The 76-year-old king had been dogged by a series of health problems and scandals.
76-year-old Juan Carlos in credited with overseeing Spain’s smooth transition from dictatorship to democracy. His son 46-year-old Crown Prince Felipe will now succeed him.
Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy made the announcement Monday explaining the king was stepping down for personal reasons, but analysts took that to mean Juan Carlos was leaving the throne because he lost public support.
Until fairly recently the king’s popularity was high but a series of missteps coupled with poor economy had many calling for him to step aside. His reputation took a hit in 2012 when it was revealed he went on an expensive elephant hunting trip, at a time when Spain was in the middle of a recession and millions were unemployed.
Making things worse his daughter Princess Cristina and her husband are currently caught up in a long running investigation into their spending habits.