Key Events and Figures of the Spanish Civil War
The Spanish Civil War: 1936-1939
Background and International Context
Livestock and cereals were important resources for the Nationalist faction in Galicia and Castile, respectively. Nationally, the army was better prepared. Regarding international intervention, a congress was held to debate European involvement in this Spanish conflict, and it was agreed not to intervene. However, some individuals joined, specifically to defend fascism in Europe, given the contemporary rise of fascist dictatorships under Hitler and Mussolini. France and Russia also supported the Republicans, with the Soviet Union aiding due to its communist ideology.
Key Stages of the War
1936: Consolidation of Factions
On July 18, 1936, the Nationalists arrived in eastern Andalusia. In Granada, a revolt occurred, during which the poet Federico García Lorca was slain, highlighting the targeting of Republican intellectuals. When they reached Badajoz, General Emilio Mola entered the territory, eventually reaching the Basque Country, where his advance would be halted. Mola and Francisco Franco’s objective was to reach Madrid from Badajoz. There was significant repression, and before arriving in Madrid, they took Toledo. Upon reaching Madrid, Franco encountered strong resistance from the International Brigades and a significant women’s movement, notably featuring Dolores Ibárruri, “La Pasionaria.” Despite this, Madrid was still bombed. While the strong Republican defense prevented Madrid from falling, the central government decided to relocate to Valencia. In Paracuellos del Jarama, a young general, Camilo, ordered the execution of right-wing individuals, contributing to the massacres perpetrated by both sides. Generals José Sanjurjo and Mola died in 1936.
1937: The Northern Campaign
German Condor Legion aircraft bombed Guernica in 1937. Following this event, Bilbao and the Basque Country were conquered that year, effectively securing the north for the Nationalists. In response, the Republicans launched diversionary attacks in Guadalajara, leading to notable battles in Brunete and Belchite.
1938: Shifting Fronts
A significant battle took place in Teruel, where Franco’s forces connected with Castellón de la Plana, effectively dividing the Republican territory. Consequently, the Republican headquarters were moved to Barcelona. The Battle of the Ebro also occurred during this period.
1939: The War’s Conclusion
By 1939, the war was practically won by the Franco regime, but they still needed to occupy Madrid and eastern Andalusia. Juan Negrín, the Republican army general, decided to prolong the war, hoping for the outbreak of World War II to change the situation. However, a coup led by Segismundo Casado in Madrid brought an end to the Republican resistance, and the war officially ended in April 1939.
Political and Social Developments
Franco’s Consolidation of Power
Franco’s success was partly due to his unified command structure, characterized by a centralized and obedient government. During the war, he began organizing the future of Spain, consolidating all powers and becoming the president of the Falange party. He abolished all other political parties and trade unions, dismantling the existing statutes and advocating for a unified Spain. The Vatican supported Franco and his dictatorship, leading to the Catholic religion playing a central role in education and society. Throughout the war, Franco solidified his belief in the necessity of a dictatorship to unite Spain.
Divisions Within the Republican Side
The left-wing forces were divided into two main camps: the Communists and the Anarchists. This division led to internal disorder and military insubordination, weakening their ability to resist the Nationalist advance.