This research has two aims: first, to present the abundant information available on the evolution of the economy of Spain and its autonomous regions from 1955 to 1995, with the aim of showing the possibilities offered for a long-term analysis; and second, to propose a schematic interpretation of the keys to the process of regional growth, highlighting the importance for it of the intense capital accumulation that has taken place. The study offers a large volume of information broken down by region, paying particular attention to an analysis of the differences between the autonomous regions, both in terms of their achievements and economic problems.