The Spanish Civil War: A Global Conflict’s Roots and Results
Civil War: Politics and International Dimensions
The Spanish Civil War began as an internal conflict but soon acquired an international dimension, with several European countries favoring one side or the other. The Spanish War was seen as the beginning of what eventually became World War II. England and the Soviet Union favored the Republic, while Germany and Italy quickly leaned toward the rebels.
However, the delicate situation in Europe led to France’s initiative. On September 9, 1936, the Non-Intervention Committee was established in London, mainly out of fear that the situation would escalate into an international conflict. But the committee’s recommendations were not followed, and the European powers, except England, aided each side of the conflict.
The Republic’s Support
France and the Soviet Union helped the Republic. French aid was inefficient and intermittent. Soviet aid was more effective, providing war materials, especially vehicles and planes, but demanded immediate payment in advance. Consequently, the Republican government had to send the Bank of Spain’s gold reserves to the Soviet Union. Support from other sources was less significant, although the Third International organized the International Brigades. Their effectiveness was not as positive as expected. They were involved in the Battle of Jarama and were more effective in helping to defend Madrid.
The Rebels’ Support
Germany, Italy, Portugal, and the Vatican State recognized the Franco government during the war. Germany and Italy lent their aid effectively and directly. At the beginning of the war, German aircraft were instrumental in moving the Army of Africa across the Strait of Gibraltar. The Italians provided men and materiel. Italian troops took part in the Battle of Guadalajara but were not overly effective. The Germans sent fewer troops but plenty of war materials, some high-tech, and military instructors who were well-prepared at the controls of the national army. Neither the Germans nor the Italians demanded immediate payment.
Finally, Portugal and Ireland sent small contingents of volunteers who were not excessively relevant. The United States favored the Republic, but President Roosevelt favored non-intervention and banned arms sales to Spain. After the Munich Conference in September 1938, the European democracies bowed to Hitler’s demands and agreed to the withdrawal of international troops in the Spanish War. Consequently, in November, the International Brigades left Spain.
Conclusion
The aid to each side was not very different and was very unbalanced in favor of one and against another, but if it is accepted that aid to the citizens was more rapid and effective, it also concludes that this aid helped prolong the war and increased the human and material damage derived from it. Neither side had the potential and means for such a long conflict.