Spanish Civil War: Politics, International Impact & Aftermath
The Spanish Civil War: Politics and International Dimensions
From its beginning, the Spanish Civil War became a conflict of international significance. The global tension between democratic and fascist powers shaped the conflict. The general public and the international labor movement largely sided with the Republic. Conservatives backed the rebels, viewing the Republic as a revolutionary regime that could turn Spain into a communist country.
Western democracies, however, were unwilling to risk another European war over Spain. Although the French government initially considered supplying weapons to the Republic, British pressure led them to desist. In August 1936, a Committee on Non-Intervention was created at British initiative, signed by 27 countries, including England, France, Germany, and Italy. The agreement aimed for neutrality, preventing the supply of arms and resources to either side, but it proved to be a fraud. While France and England complied, Germany and Italy sent material, manpower, and resources to Franco throughout the war. The Soviet Union provided similar aid to the Republican area.
The compromised Western powers not only tolerated violations of the agreement but also yielded to German expansion in 1938 with the Munich Pact, allowing the annexation of Czechoslovakia. European democracies prioritized a fragile peace over confronting fascism. Furthermore, Western governments feared revolution more than they supported democracy.
International Aid in the Conflict
In the rebel zone, German aid was highly effective, providing the Condor Legion and approximately 16,000 men. Mussolini’s Italy sent aircraft to Morocco, enabling the army to cross to Gibraltar, and deployed the Volontarie Truppe Corp, consisting of around 40,000 men. Portugal, under Salazar, also provided assistance, though to a lesser extent.
On the Republican side, the USSR mobilized instructors and resources to steer the region toward communist approaches. France and Mexico helped to the extent of their capabilities and received the International Brigades.
Consequences of the Civil War
The Spanish Civil War was the most traumatic event in 20th-century Spain, pitting citizens and even families against each other. Personal hatred, ideological fanaticism, and anti-Catholic sentiment in the Republican zone led to the violent deaths of approximately 130,000 to 150,000 people.
In the Republican zone, persecutions and murders targeted those suspected of collaborating with or sympathizing with the rebellion. While initially attributed to uncontrolled elements, all anti-fascist organizations were involved. An appeal for order was made in December 1936, but the violence continued until mid-1937. A similar climate of terror prevailed in the rebel zone, targeting supporters and members of the Popular Front. Violence persisted throughout the war.
Demographic Impact
The war resulted in nearly 500,000 deaths, many occurring behind the front lines. Approximately 300,000 people went into exile, particularly in the war’s final months, including combatants and their families. Most were interned in southern France and later dispersed throughout Europe, North Africa, and Latin America.
Cultural Consequences
The war destroyed the educational progress made between 1918 and 1936. A significant percentage of teachers were dismissed. Virtually all members of the literary Generation of ’27 died or went into exile, along with scientists and artists. Strict repression and censorship were imposed.
Economic Consequences
Spain lost the foreign exchange reserves of the Bank of Spain. The population decreased by about one million people. Transport infrastructure was destroyed, and industries experienced a decline in production and income. Rationing and hunger were prevalent in the 1940s. There was also widespread destruction of homes and even entire towns.
Political Implications
The Civil War marked the end of a modernizing and democratic era and the beginning of a 37-year dictatorship. This meant that Spain was excluded from European progress, particularly after 1945.