- The Events of March 11, 2004 in Madrid
- The Aftermath of the Madrid Bombings
- The Legacy of the Madrid Bombings
Spain Withdraws From the War in Iraq
One of Zapatero's campaign policies was to withdrew Spanish troops from the war in Iraq. He soon announces that he will go through with this election pledge. Zapatero also ushers in a new era of liberal government in Spain, including a cabinet that is made up by 50% women.
'Gracias a Madrid'
In April 2004, a month after the bombings, an awards ceremony is held in Puerta del Sol to show the nation's gratitude to the emergency services that had helped during the immediate aftermath of the bombings and to the civilians (in particular the bus drivers who turned their buses into makeshift ambulances during this time of need) who assisted.
The shrine in front of the municipal building in Puerta del Sol is removed to make way for the ceremony.
March 11 2005 - Bosque de los Ausentes
A year after the bombings, a memorial garden is erected near the site of the bombings, entitled "Bosque de los Ausentes" (literally 'Forest of the Departed'), with 192 trees to represent those killed in the bombing and the agent who died in the Leganes siege.
March 11 Bombings Enquiry & Controversy
The investigation into the Madrid Bombings lasted for two years, during which time more than 100 people were arrested. After 80,000 pages of legal paperwork, it was established that Al Qaeda themselves were not involved in the attacks, but that it was an Islamic extremist group that intended to act on behalf of Al Qaeda.
Conservatives in Spain continue to claim that ETA were indeed involved and that PSEO, the current ruling party (at the time the opposition party), are covering up the truth. They go so far as to suggest there has been a coup d'etat.
Other Terrorist Attacks in Spain Since March 11, 2004
Other than the failed attempt on an AVE high-speed train on April 2, 2004 (see Aftermath of March 11 Bombings, there have been no more terrorist attacks in Spain by Islamic extremists since March 11, 2004.
Basque separatists ETA stayed quiet until December 3, 2004, when they planted bombs in gas stations around Madrid. They tipped off police and the bombs did no detonate. Since then, ETA have attacked several times.
