Spanish Civil War

Alfonso XIIIdeEspaña

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Emilio Mola

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FOTOGRAFIA DE JOSE ANTONIO PRIMO DE RIVERA

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José Calvo Sotelo, retrato en Vida Gallega 1936

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General map of the Spanish Civil War (1936–39)

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Spanish Civil War

The Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) was a major conflict that devastated Spain, pitting the Republican forces, consisting of leftists, communists, and anarchists, against the Nationalist forces, led by General Francisco Franco. The war began following a military rebellion against the Second Spanish Republic, culminating in a brutal and polarizing conflict that drew international attention and intervention.

Background

The roots of the Spanish Civil War can be traced back to the early 20th century, with deep political and social divisions within Spanish society. The establishment of the Second Spanish Republic in 1931, with its progressive reforms, challenged the traditional conservative elements of Spanish society, including the monarchy, the military, and the Catholic Church. These tensions escalated over the years, leading to widespread unrest and violence.

Outbreak of the War

The immediate cause of the war was a military coup attempt in July 1936, led by a group of Nationalist officers against the Republican government. The coup failed to take immediate control of the country, leading to a split between the areas controlled by the rebels and those remaining under Republican authority, thus marking the beginning of the civil war.

International Involvement

The Spanish Civil War attracted international attention, with several countries intervening directly or indirectly. The Nationalists received support from Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, both of which provided military aid and troops. The Republicans were supported by the Soviet Union and international brigades composed of volunteers from around the world, including the famous Abraham Lincoln Brigade from the United States.

Major Battles and Events

The war was marked by several key battles and events, including the Battle of Madrid, the Bombing of Guernica, and the Battle of the Ebro. The Bombing of Guernica, in particular, highlighted the brutality of the war and served as an inspiration for Pablo Picasso's famous painting, "Guernica."

Aftermath

The Spanish Civil War ended in April 1939 with the victory of the Nationalist forces, leading to the establishment of a dictatorship under Francisco Franco that lasted until his death in 1975. The war resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and left Spain deeply divided, a division that persisted for decades.

Legacy

The Spanish Civil War has been the subject of extensive study and remains a significant event in Spanish and world history. It is seen as a precursor to World War II, given the involvement of Germany and Italy, and has been depicted in numerous works of literature, film, and art.