This study is one of a series of Office of Education publications on educational developments in other countries. It describes and analyzes in social, economic, and historical context the educational changes mandated in Spain by the Education Reform Law of 1970, one of contemporary Europe's most far-reaching plans for educational reform and renewal. The study also gives attention to some of the initial stages in the implementation of the law, based on information available through mid-1971. Included in the document are sections on: 1) The Country, People, and the Culture; 2) Educational History of Spain; 3) Educational System of the 1960's; 4) Developments and Problems on the Eve of the Reform; 5) Beginnings of the Educational Reform; 6) The Education Reform Law of 1970; 7) The Reform in Action; 8) Interpretation; and Appendices, including a glossary of educational terms, a list of selected references, the introduction to the "Libro Blanco" and extracts from the Education Reform Law of 1970. Several charts are also included. (Author/OPH)