What was the Spanish Civil War?
The Spanish Civil War was a conflict that took place between 1936 and 1939, pitting the Nationalist, a right-wing coalition consisting of monarchists, aristocrats, and fascist militaries, against the Republican, a left-wing coalition of socialists, communists, and labor unions. The war started as a military uprising supported by fascist Italy and Nazi Germany, and ended in the defeat of the Spanish Republic and the establishment of a dictatorship under General Francisco Franco.
Causes of the War
The Spanish Civil War was a complex event with multiple causes. Several factors contributed to the escalation of tensions between the various factions:
- Economic disparity: Spain was a rich country with a significant class divide. The wealthy controlled the economy, while the poor struggled to survive. The Industrial Workers’ Federation (FYT) and the Central Committee of Antifascist Militias organized labor strikes and protests in response to the economic difficulties.
- Political crisis: The Second Republic (1931-1936) was vulnerable due to internal divisions within the government and the strong opposition from the Alfonsist conservatives.
- Fascist influence: German and Italian fascist ideologies were spreading across Europe, sparking the rise of fascist powers and influencing the Spanish militarist and conservative circles.
Key Events leading up to the War
Several key events contributed to the outbreak of the Civil War:
- Azana’s government: Following the February 16, 1936 municipal elections, the Cortes (government) was dissolved, sparking tensions between the government and the opposition.
- General Francisco Franco’s call for rebellion: On July 17, 1936, General Emilio Mola spoke of a "move that will shake the republican bastions", marking the beginning of the Civil War.
- Julio de Maura, an Alfonsist militant, called for a dictatorship: On July 28, 1936, Julio de Maura gave a speech in which he declared that the only path forward was a dictatorship based on the principles of royal authority.
The Wartime Period
From July 1936, the war raged through the country, with violence, atrocities, and forced exile. The war created refugees, prisoners, and widows, and countless individuals were forced to cross borders, leading to economic instability and social upheaval. The war also featured various International Brigades, composed of volunteers who came from around the globe to fight for the side they believed in.
