This article analyzes and discusses how Spanish education has evolved and departed from traditions, involving a complex array of cultural, historical, and political factors. Cultural and linguistic diversity have been significant factors in slowing the central state's progress toward its modern goals and ideology. During the past 25 years the fundamental tension between progressive and conservative political groups during the establishment of the new state model is reflected in the formation and planning of the present Spanish educational system. This system is halfway between a centralized system and a decentralized or federal system. The foundation for the idea of school autonomy in Spain dates from the 1978 Constitution, but adoption of autonomy has been incomplete. New education laws passed in 1990 and 1995 are continuing to influence system changes.