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What were the Root Causes of the Spanish Civil War

The Spanish Civil War was one of the bloodiest wars in Twentieth Century in Europe. The war was not simply a Spanish affair, but drew in other several other nations, including Italy, Portugal, Germany and the Soviet Union. The war was a result of many factors, some of which will be discussed here. The main cause of the Spanish Civil War, was the failure of Spanish democracy. This was because there was a refusal by the Spanish parties and groups to compromise and respect democratic norms.

Spain was a very divided, unstable and weak country in the 19th century. Once a great power, Spain lost almost the last of its colonies after it defeat in the Spanish-American war. [1] It was technically a monarchy, but power had frequently been in the hands of military dictators. The country was bitterly divided. The acute poverty of the Spanish people meant that many were drawn to Communism, Anarchism and Socialism. [2] These ideologies call for popular governments and the re-distribution of resources, such as land and wealth.

Spanish anarchists, socialists and communists were secular and wanted to remove the influence of the Catholic Church from Spanish society. The elite and the middle class were especially conservative. They dominated the economy and feared that the Communists would confiscate their property. This is typified in the fact that much of the best land in Spain was owned by a relatively small proportion of the population. Furthermore, the wealthy and the middle class, especially in rural society was Catholics and resisted any idea that there should be a separation of Church in State in Spain. [3] The elite and the rich landowners, the ‘agrarian oligarchy’ were terrified of communism, especially after the Russian Revolution in 1917.

By 1930, Spain was bitterly divided on social and ideological lines. Spain was and is a diverse society. [4] There are many areas of the country with strong regional or national identities. Many of the regions in Spain, such as the Catalans, demanded more autonomy or even outright independence from Madrid, such as the Basques. The tensions between the regions and the central government meant that the country was inherently unstable, as compromise was impossibly, between the parties.

The Failure of Spanish Government

Spain had been neutral during the First World War. However, this had not made the country peaceful or prosperous. In the wake of the ending of the WWI, there was a major economic slump. [5] The working class and the rural poor suffered greatly at this time and they began to organize themselves and they were often led by Communists and Anarchists. At this time the Trade Unions in Spain became very strong and there were widespread strikes. In the countryside impoverished peasants began to seize land. To many in the elite it seemed as if the country was on the brink of Communist revolution. Miguel Primo de Rivera, with the support of the monarchy and army launched a coup and came to power in 1923, and he became dictator of Spain. He was a monarchists and conservative and did nothing to reform the country and especially to alleviate the plight of the poor. [6] De Rivera soon became very unpopular and tensions in the country increased and he was forced to resign. In 1931, The Spanish monarch resigned. It seemed that Spain had an opportunity to begin a new era and to become a true democracy, after elections were held.

Second Republic

A new constitution was introduced in 1931 ad it was a liberal document that guaranteed human rights and basic freedoms. The Constitution also separated the Church and State. Elections were again held in 1932. In the first elections under the Constitution in 1933, an alliance of right wing and center right parties came to power. Despite the establishment of democracy there was no stability. [7] This was partly a result of the economic consequences caused by the Great Depression. The left, including the Communists and the Trade Unions continued to press for their agendas. [8] They sought the nationalization of industry and the redistribution of land to the poor. The first democratically elected government was constantly undermined by General Strikes and local left wing revolts. In particular there was a revolt by miners in Asturias, which was suppressed by the army. The left could not simply abide by the outcome of the election and instead of achieving their goals by constitutional means, they opted for violent methods. [9]

A weakened government eventually collapsed and new elections were called for 1936. The General Election saw a victory for a left-wing alliance of parties, including Communists, Anarchists and Socialists. This government was also supported by regional parties. They immediately launched an ambitious program of reforms, especially land reform to meet the ‘expectations of the urban and rural poor’, that antagonize many in the Spanish elite. [10] Many Spaniards believed that a communist revolution was imminent.

“They eyed with mounting alarm the red flags and banners and portraits of Lenin, Stalin and Largo Caballero on huge placards, and listened to the chanting of the demonstrators, demanding the formation of a proletarian government and a people’s army’’. [11]

In response right-wing extremists such as the Falange militia began a violent campaign against the left-wing government. The right could not accept that the Left was the legitimate governments and believed that they were entitled to use violence means to secure their position and interests.

Countdown to Civil War

It was clear by 1936 that Spain was on the edge of a major confrontation between the left and the right and between the regions. There began a series of political assassinations. The right openly called for the military to stage a coup to oust the left wing government, which some saw as only the puppets of the Soviet Union. Much of the Spanish Army was stationed in the country’s last colonies in Morocco. [12]

The left-wing government believed that the military was too far away from Spain because the government was losing control of the situation and there was fighting between the Falange militia and the police on the streets of several cities, resulting in many deaths. Then the Spanish Army Generals, led by General Franco, launched a coup, they managed to fly their forces, with the assistance of the German government to Spain. The arrival of regular Spanish units from Morocco on the Spanish mainland was the trigger for an all-out war that was to ‘leave half-a-million people dead.’ [13]

The Spanish Civil War was caused by many factors, including major socio-economic problems, such as poverty and inequality. However, the main cause was all sides’ failure to compromise and to respect the rights and opinions of others. This meant that the Second Republic, could never provide a government that could bring stability and prosperity to the country. Political violence became endemic in the country as a consequence and it escalated until it became a full scale civil war.

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↑ Vincent, Mary (2007). Spain, 1833–2002 . Oxford, UK; New York: Oxford University Press
↑ Beevor, Antony (2006). The Battle for Spain: The Spanish Civil War 1936–1939 . London, UK: Weidenfield and Nicolson
↑ Lannon, Frances (1987). Privilege, Persecution, and Prophecy: The Catholic Church in Spain, 1875–1975 . Oxford, UK: Clarendon Press
↑ Beevor, The Battle for Spain: The Spanish Civil War 1936–1939
↑ Beevor, Battle for Spain
↑ Paul Preston (2012). The Spanish Holocaust: Inquisition and Extermination in Twentieth-Century Spain . London, UK: HarperCollins
↑ Preston, 7.
↑ Beevor, 124.

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The Causes of the Spanish Civil War

What were the causes of the Spanish Civil War ? Between 1936 and 1939 over 500,000 people were killed in the Spanish Civil War so this cannot be considered a ‘little’ war that was overshadowed by the problems that were occurring in Europe during these years.

In 1920, Spain was a constitutional monarchy. The king was Alfonso XIII.

However, the government was inefficient and corrupt. In 1921, an army was sent to Spanish Morocco to put down a rebellion. It was massacred but this defeat seemed to emphasise just how corrupt and incompetent Spain’s leadership was.

In 1923, Spain experienced a bloodless coup when Alfonso agreed that General Primo de Rivera should take control of Spain. He ruled as a military dictator until 1930. Rivera’s approach to leadership was fully supported by Alfonso.

However, Rivera did not display the classic features of a dictator. He introduced public works schemes building roads and irrigating the land. Industrial production increased by three times from 1923 to1930. Rivera also ended the rebellion in Morocco in 1925.

However, the Great Depression of the 1930’s hit Spain hard. Unemployment rose and Rivera did not have the ability to sort out Spain’s financial mess. The army withdrew its support and Rivera had to resign.

In April 1931, elections were held in Spain which resulted in republicans winning all the major cities in Spain. Alfonso decided to abdicate as he feared that if he stayed on, Spain would plummet into turmoil. Those victorious at the election then declared Spain a republic and monarchy was abolished.

The new republic immediately faced a number of major problems:

Two important regions in Spain wanted independence – Catalonia and the Basque region. Had their requests been successful, it would have lead to the break-up of Spain. The Roman Catholic Church was hostile to the republic and the republic was hostile to the highly influential Roman Catholic Church. The government believed that the army had too much say in politics and determined to reduce its influence. Spain was primarily an agricultural nation and the 1930’s Depression had hit prices for crops. Prime exports such as olive oil and wine fell in value and previously used agricultural land fell into disuse. The little industry that Spain had was also hit by the Depression. Iron and steel were especially hit as no-one had the money to pay for the products. Iron production fell by 33% and steel by 50%. Unemployment in both agriculture and industry rose and those in work had to put up with a cut in wages as the economy struggled to survive the Depression. The Republic faced losing the support of those whose support it desperately needed – the working class.

Those who governed Spain had differing views on what to do. The wishes of the left alarmed those on the right and vice versa. Political infighting was in danger of pushing Spain into social revolution.

The middle ground in Spain’s parliament – the socialists and middle-class radicals – did try to resolve outstanding problems.

Catalonia did receive some degree of self-government. The historic privileges of the Roman Catholic Church were attacked. Priests were no longer paid by the state. Their salaries now came out of the Roman Catholic Church’s purse. The government and the Roman Catholic Church were made two separate entities. Jesuits – seen as hard line Roman Catholics – were expelled from Spain – ironically the country that had founded the movement. Religious education in schools was stopped. Many army officers were made to retire early The huge estates in Spain were nationalised i.e. taken over by the government which would control what was done on them etc. The wages of those who worked in industry were increased but they were to be paid by the owners of those industries not by the government.

The government tried to attack those it deemed as having too many privileges in society. But by doing this it angered all those sectors in society that had the potential to fight back – the military, industrialists, land owners and the Roman Catholic Church. These four (potentially very powerful bodies) were unwilling to support the republican government in Madrid. They were also aware that there were countries in Europe that would be willing to give support to their plight as many nations in Europe were scared of communism and Stalin’s Russia. Fascist Italy under Mussolini would be an obvious ally as would Germany once Hitler had got power in January 1933.

In January 1932, a number of army officers tried to overthrow the government lead by Manuel Azana, the prime minister. The attempt was unsuccessful as the army, for now, was loyal to the government – after all, it had won the elections fairly and, therefore, had legitimacy. However, a new political party was formed called the Ceda. This was a right wing party dedicated to protecting the authority of the Roman Catholic Church and landlords.

The government of Azana, having lost support from the right, also lost support from the left. Two powerful left wing political parties, the anarchists and syndicalists (powerful trade union groups), felt that Azana’s government was too middle of the road. Both wanted a more communistic state and the overthrow of capitalism. Above all, Azana was despised for forming a political union with the middle ground in Spain’s political life. He was deemed to have betrayed the working class. The extreme left organised strikes and riots in an effort to destabilise the government of Azana.

Matters came to a head when in January 1933, 25 people were killed by government troops who were attempting to catch some anarchists near Cadiz. This lost the government a great deal of support among the working class and the socialists withdrew their support from the government. Azana resigned as prime minister and elections were called for November 1933.

In this election, the right wing won a majority of support and the largest party in the parliament (known as the Cortes), was the Ceda lead by Gil Robles.

The new right wing government immediately over-turned all of the changes brought in by the Azana government. This angered many but especially the Catalans who had their privileges withdrawn. This was a serious error of judgement as the Catalans and Basques had supported the government in the elections. The way ahead for Robles became clear to many – an attack on the left wing parties of Spain.

It forced the many parties of the left to come together to form the Popular Front. They organised strikes, riots and took part in acts of violence such as derailing main line trains. In 1934 there was a general strike. Coal miners in the Asturias went on strike but were ruthlessly put down by the army lead by General Franco . Spain appeared to be heading for all out chaos. In a last minute attempt to avoid serious trouble, a general election was called for February 1936. In this election, the Popular Front won and Azana, once again became prime minister.

However, the government of the Popular Front was a farce after the socialists withdrew their support from it; more and more public disturbances occurred and the government had clearly lost control of Spain. In July 1936, a leading right wing politician, Sotelo, was murdered and the right wing politicians and their supporters believed that they were now in serious danger. They wanted to put their faith in a military dictatorship.

The military had, in fact, already made preparations for a takeover of Spain. General Franco assumed control of the military. He took control of Spanish Morocco after overthrowing the civilian government there. His next target was to invade mainland Spain, establish a military government there and rid the country of all those involved in left wing politics. The left would have to fight for survival. The civil war started in July 1936.

World History Edu

Spanish History

Causes & Timeline of the Spanish Civil War

by World History Edu · November 20, 2019

Causes and Timeline of the Spanish Civil War

Peace is not valued until war comes knocking at the door. The years between 1936 & 1939 were very bloody for Spanish citizens. During that time interval, the civil war in Spain killed more than 500,000 people. This huge loss signals how intense and bloody the Spanish Civil War was.

But what were the causes of this bloodbath in the Spanish lands? Here, we dig into the matters surrounding the ignition of this destructive Spanish Civil War and major events in its timeline.

Causes of the Spanish Civil War

Exploding in July 1936, the war in Spain soiled the 20th century; it was among the bloodiest wars ever to take place on the European continent. As the clock ticked further, humanity had to forcefully understand that the Spanish Civil War wasn’t only meant to be fought by Spanish citizens – foreign countries such as Soviet Union, Portugal, Italy, and Germany also got involved in the war.

On causes of the war, numerous factors came into play. But the most fundamental cause had a lot to do with the irresponsibility of the Spanish government. The country’s political factions had a problem with the operations of democracy.

At the turn of the 19th century, Spain wasn’t unified and stable. After its defeat during the 1898 Spanish-American War, Spain’s monarchy struggled with economic hardships. As a result of this, power occasionally lied in the hands of the military. Furthermore, various secular groups who supported anarchy and communism dreaded the growth of the Catholic Church. On the other hand, the elite populace was more economically sound than the other social classes, hence they saw communism as a threat to their wealth.

In the early 1930s, increased division and disparity among Spain’s social classes notched the country to a tipping point. In addition to the various political strife, the Catalan region in the northeast of the country wanted a complete breakaway from Spain; something that the central government wouldn’t raise a finger. The widespread division of Spain according to ideological and social lines, made possible the eruption of the bloody war that rocked the country to its core.

Here is a summary of the root causes of the Spanish Civil War:

Irresponsible Dictatorial Government

Spain maintained neutrality during World War I . But that didn’t give it peace nor prosperity. World War 1 ended with a major economic disaster. Both the poor and the employed class struggled to get their daily bread.

Poverty led people to group themselves along communist lines backed by anarchists. In rural communities, stronger peasants would do anything to succeed such as confiscating lands. The elite class could feel the bells of communism ringing close to their properties.

Meanwhile, monarchist leader and dictator Miguel Primo de Rivera couldn’t do anything to support the poor masses after coming into power in a 1923 coup. Rivera and his troops took power from King Alfonso XIII, but his failure to properly govern the people led to conflicts and divisions in Spain.

The Great Depression

In the 1930s, characterized by a catastrophe in every sector of the world, the Great Depression dealt a big blow to Spain which was already in ruins. Unemployment rose high to the skies. General Rivera did not have the slightest clue on how to manage Spain’s financial struggles. In the end, the army lost faith in him, forcing his resignation in the midst of troubles.

The New Republic Faced Challenges

A Spanish election in April 1931 ended with a resounding Republican victory. This victory saw Spain become a Republic, and the monarchy was discarded. However, the emergence of the new republic wasn’t a match for the myriads of problems that infected the nation.

The Spanish regions of Catalonia and Basque were interested in acquiring their own Independence. At that time, the Roman Catholic Church had a noticeable influence in Spain – this kept the Catholics at arm’s length from the Republican government.

To add fuel to fire, government realized that the military had way too much power which must be reduced immediately – army officers were forcefully retired from service. The increased hardships also confused the new government, leaving them with dangerous options on their table.

Mistakenly, the government started targeting the comfort of the privileged classes, including Catholics, military men, industrialists, and landowners. By stepping on the wrong feet, resistances began to mount against the government. Political parties were formed with ulterior motives.

As early as 1932, military coup attempts led by Manuel Azana were made on the Republican government, but they were unsuccessful. In January 1933, tensions further escalated when government troops fatally shot 25 people in an attempt to arrest them. Additionally, the killing of Calvo Sotelo (of the right-wing) on July 13, 1936, wasn’t taken lightly.

Left parties united and founded the Popular Front party. More riots and protests occurred until the party won the 1936 elections; Azana became the Prime Minister. As more problems poured in, a full-blown Spanish Civil War ignited in July 1936 when General Francisco Franco’s army revolted against the Second Spanish Republic.

Causes and timeline of the Spanish Civil War

Timeline of the Spanish Civil War

February: The Popular Front party won big time in the election ; Azana was made Prime Minister (president).

March-May: The Falange Party was halted. Riots, protests, and strike actions rocked Spain.

July : Uprisings in Spanish Morocco and other places, followed by the dissolution of the regular army. Adolf Hitler (Germany) supported the Nationalists (the rebels). The Soviets backed Republicans. Italy flew Franco’s army to Spain’s mainland.

August : Volunteers from International Brigade alighted in Spain to support Republicans.

February : Spanish Nationalists started attacking Republicans. The International Brigade resisted the attacks.

March: General Franco aborted Madrid invasion because Italian volunteers were defeated in the Battle of Guadalajara.

April : Bombs from the air left Guernica in tatters.

May: Barcelona weakened by the fallout of Republicans.

June: Bilbao city conquered by Nationalists.

August : General Franco’s regime got recognition from the Vatican.

April : The Nationalists divided Spain into two.

May : Franco called for a complete surrender of Republicans.

July : Republican army weakened following the Battle of the Ebro.

October : International Brigade departed Spain.

January : General Franco overpowered Barcelona.

February : France and the UK duly recognized Franco’s regime.

March : Madrid, the Spanish capital, bowed down to General Franco.

April: Republicans finally agreed that General Francisco Franco had won; they surrendered completely.

FACT CHECK : At worldhistoryedu.com, we strive for utmost accuracy and objectivity. But if you come across something that doesn’t look right, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.

Tags: Civil Wars General Franco Military History Spain Spanish Civil War Era Spanish Civil War Timeline Timeline

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The Spanish Civil War (36-39)

1.1 I. Causes of war
1.2 II. Practices of war and their impact on the outcome
1.3 III. Effects of war
2.1 Long-term causes of the Spanish Civil War: political instability (1920−1931)
2.2 Weakness of government
2.3 The role of the Spanish Army
2.4 The role of the church
2.5 Economic causes
2.6 The role of regions
2.7 Political opposition
2.8 The fall of the monarchy and the establishment of the Second Republic
2.9 Short-term causes of the Spanish Civil War: political polarisation
2.10 The Left Republic (April 1931−November 1933)
2.11 The Right Republic (November 1933−February 1936)
2.12 The Popular Front (February−July 1936)
2.13 Immediate causes of the Spanish Civil War
2.14 Perspectives
3 II. The course of the Spanish Civil War
4.1.1 Political disunity
4.1.2 Military problems
4.1.3 Economic problems
4.1.4 Foreign assistance
4.2.1 Political unity
4.2.2 Military unity
4.2.3 Economic advantage
4.2.4 Foreign assistance
5.1 Britain
5.4 Germany
5.6 Portugal
6 The nature of the Spanish Civil War
7.1 Human cost
7.2 Economic cost
7.3 Political effects
8.1 USSR and communism
8.2 Hilter's Germany and Mussolini's Italy
8.3 Britain and France
8.4 The USA
9 Was the Spanish Civil War a cause of World War II?

Introduction

The Spanish Civil war is a suitable topic to study for 2020 IB History Guide and is a natural fit for the World history topic 11: Causes and effects of 20th century wars.

The Spanish Civil War of 1936 to 1939 was a class war, and a culture war. Competing visions of Spanish identity were superimposed on a bitter struggle over material resources, as the defenders of property, religion and tradition took up arms against a Republican government committed to social reform, devolution, and secularisation. —Frances Lannon, The Spanish Civil War

'A civil war is not a war but a sickness,' wrote Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. 'The enemy is within. One fights almost against oneself.' Yet Spain's tragedy in 1936 was even greater. It had become enmeshed in the international civil war, which started in earnest with the Bolshevik revolution. —From Antony Beevor, The Battle for Spain: The Spanish Civil War 1936−1936 , 2006

The Spanish Civil War broke out in 1936 after more than a century of social, economic and political division. Half a million people died in this conflict between 1936 and 1939.

The prescribed content is below (2020 Guide):

I. Causes of war

Economic, ideological, political, territorial and other causes
Short-term and long-term causes

II. Practices of war and their impact on the outcome

Types of war: civil wars; wars between states; guerrilla wars
Technological developments; air, naval and land warfare
The extent of the mobilization of human and economic resources
The influence and/or involvement of foreign powers

III. Effects of war

The successes and failures of peacemaking
Territorial changes
Political impact: short-term and long-term
Economic, social and demographic impact; changes in the role and status of women

I. Causes of War

Long-term causes of the spanish civil war: political instability (1920−1931).

Struggle between conservatism and liberalism.

Weakness of government

1871 onwards Spain was a constitutional monarchy with a parliament that retained little power.
Political control shifted between the wealthy oligarchs and their various cliques.
Two main parties, Conservatives and Liberals, with very little difference between them.
Elections were rigged or decided in private.

The role of the Spanish Army

Army had powerful political position due to imperial past.
It intervened in politics if a crisis occurred to defend its interests.
It was unpopular, had a reputation for brutality, and was expensive and required heavy taxes.
It was ineffective, as proven by the loss of the Spanish Empire during the 19th century, the American war in 1898, and the struggle to keep Morocco between 1906 to 1926.
It was too big with too many officers and overly middle class.
Army was conservationist, traditional, nationalistic and 'Africannistas.'

The role of the church

Catholic church was rich and powerful, with guaranteed role in education and the economy.
Its wealth was used to gain political and social influence!
It used its power for economic conservatism and to oppose modernising and liberal forces.
Defended the upper class as many of the clergy were aristocrats, who helped fund.
In many urban areas and rural areas there were protests against the church.

Economic causes

Spain was mainly an agricultural economy, and it was inefficient, thus not providing sufficient food and its work was seasonal.
Most lived in abject poverty, with an enormous gap between rich and poor.
Rioting and disorder often broke out in the countryside, with the Civil Guard deployed to ruthlessly repress.
No support from churches made some groups support the anarchists who argued for land redistribution.
Many small landholders were conservative, resisted socialist/anarchist ideas, and were exploited by the Catholic Agrarian Federation who provided support for their beliefs, only to later support Franco.
There was a need for modernisation and reform, and was limited by endemic poverty.
Workers in towns faced low wages, long hours, unregulated working conditions, poor housing, and little welfare provision.
This situation led to a growth in trade unionism, which, however, failed to achieve anything substantial.
The workers' political parties had no real political power, with no legal means and violent uprisings.
Spain's neutrality during WWI facilitated a short period of economic boom, however the increase in exports only increased inflation and shortages.
By 1920s, there were major economic problems.

The role of regions

Tension created by ongoing struggle between the centralist state and Catalonia and Basque provinces, which wanted decentralization and independence.
The two regions had their own languages, cultures, economies, and churches.
Primo de Rivera took back the self-governing rights of Catalonia, and separatists forces supported the Republican movement that overthrew Alfonso in 1931

Political opposition

Liberal movement achieved little in opposing conservative forces, though remained a political force and supported the revolution that ousted the King in 1931.
Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) had grown in rural areas but had minimal impact.
General Union of Workers (UGT) was more visible in organizing strikes/protests in rural areas.
Following the Bolshevik revolution, a Communist Party emerged.
Anarchists demanded land redistribution; popular with peasants.
Anarchists argued for revolutionary methods and to boycott democratic processes.
More extreme anarchists (FAI) perpetrated bombings and assassinations.

The fall of the monarchy and the establishment of the Second Republic

Post WWI economic depression and social tensions put pressure on King Alfonso XIII, and after 12 unsuccessful governments, a coup was thrown (1931, General Primo de Rivera).
De Rivera tried to establish an authoritarian right-wing regime; started infrastructure programmes for railways, roads, electrification, irrigation.
Ended war in Morocco in 1925.
All his efforts to satisfy various social groups created massive debt and was not good when Wall Street Crashed in 1929.
Resigned in 1930, and after municipal elections in April 1931, there was support for San Sebastian Pact (republicans, liberals, socialists, Catalans) coalition.
'Velvet revolution' occurred and the Second Republic was established as the King went into voluntary exile.

Short-term causes of the Spanish Civil War: political polarisation

Between 1931 and 1936 Spain became polarised due to the long-term structural problems and clear divisions.
Paul Preston: "no-one, except a tiny minority on the lunatic fringe on the extreme right or left, believe that Spain's problems could be solved only by war."

The Left Republic (April 1931−November 1933)

When Manuel Azaña became president he declared a "democratic republic of workers of all classes."
Key issue of tension before 'velvet revolution' in 1931 was the church's power.
Azaña removed powers from the Church, prevented its control in education, and state payments to the clergy stopped.
Army also affected; Azaña offered early retirement and closed military academies - this all backfired as those who remained were hard-core conservatives, nationalists, and Africanistas.
Depression exacerbated the economic problems; agriculture prices were falling, wine and olive exports fell, peasant unemployment was rising, industrial output fell by as much as a half (steel).
Right wing saw all this as a threat and similar to the Soviet-style system.
Government introduced Assault Guard to increase left-wing military force to deal with civil unrest and violence.
Both the left and right were rising against the slow pace of change, however these were suppressed as the army were loyal.
Right-wing saw this as a threat and the first step to break-up Spain's integrity.
Each reform was perceived as an attack on right-wing groups, causing new groups to protect against these changes.
Political divisions increased under Second Republic.
Historians see the land reforms as the central failing of the government in this period, however Paul Preston argues right-wing were never going to give Azaña a choice.
Azaña lost left-wing, working-class support and resigned in 1933 after government guards 'smoked out' anarchists, killing 25.

The Right Republic (November 1933−February 1936)

Republic swung right wing, members of CEDA (largest party) became war ministers.
These two years are known as the "black years" as right-wing systematically tried to reverse everything; Church regained power, education, and land programme was halted.
Catalonia declared itself independent when CEDA joined the government, but autonomy was suspended after Asturian miners' uprising 1934.
Historians argued that violent suppression of left uprising created likelihood for civil war.
Right lost support from Basques.
Caballero suggested CEDA was Spanish Nazi party, and seek solution to Soviet-style Spain.
Gil-Robles demanded shift to an authoritarian approach of control, which led to ...

The Popular Front (February−July 1936)

February 1936, 'Popular Front' was an anti-fascist pact made up of various left-wing groups including socialists, anarchists and communists.
Identical front as Stalin's policy in 1935.
For many, it was final attempt to uphold democracy and peace, others associated it with Stalin and extreme communism.
Government wanted to restore reforms of 1931-33 regime; political prisoners released.
Caballero's socialists did not join government and right did not accept restoration of old reforms.
Increase in violence in the countryside as anarchists encourage peasants to seize land.

Immediate causes of the Spanish Civil War

Military officers began planning a coup as soon as Popular Front gained power
Catalyst of the coup was the murder of popular anti-republican, right-wing leading figure Calvo Sotelo on 13 July 1936.
Azaña knew about the coup and moved key military figures to remote posts.
When details about the coup were discovered, it was made a day earlier on the 17th of July, from Morocco.
Spread to mainland, took northern Spain and parts of Andalusia.
Rising failed to take main industrial areas, or Madrid.
Half of the army remained loyal to Republic, coup technically unsuccessful.

Perspectives

Historiography: The historian Paul Preston argued that: ‘... in 1931 when the Second Republic was established, no one, except a tiny minority on the lunatic fringe on the extreme right or left, believed that Spain’s problems could be solved only by war.’:

Task: In pairs discuss Preston’s quote, here are some questions to help you:

What is Preston's point in your own words?
Does Preston imply long (before '31) or short term causes (after '31) were more to blame for the outbreak of war?
What extent do you agree that the long term divisions in Spanish society did not make a civil war inevitable after 1931?

II. The course of the Spanish Civil War

With assistance of Nazi Germany, Franco airlifed 24,000 Spanish troops from Africa to Spain, using a policy of terror has the main force against Madrid.
Coup aimed to crush the 'left revolution,' but actually politicised and radicalised many Spaniards towards the left.
Supporters of the Republican regime (1936) were 'Loyalists,' and rebels called themselves 'Nationalists.'
Workers supported Republic, and middle, upper class and the church supported Nationalists.
Nationalists did make some progress, but the Republicans controlled major cities, key industrial areas, Spain's gold reserves, and important elements of the military (air force and navy).
Nationalists, slowly, pushed back the Republic.

Why did the Nationalists win the Spanish Civil War?

Republican weaknesses, political disunity.

Republicans were politically divided and subscribed to different ideologies; between the Communists and Socialists who both believed the 'revolution' should be postponed until after the war and the Anarchists who argued the war can only be won through a revolution.
Historians argue that the Anarchists' 'revolution from below' added a crucial hurdle for the Republic to regain centralised control, with more influence in Madrid and Valencia.
War increased in popularity with communists; July 1936 40,000 members, October 1937 400,000 members.
Republic had clear foreign support from USSR.
Communists wanted victory in war, anarchists wanted revolutionary regime.
Communists used 'terror' tactics.
Four days of street fighting in Barcelona 1937 - communists and socialists versus the anarchists illustrated the lack of unity.
After May Days (see above), the Worker's Party of Marxist Revolution took up a authoritarian regime.

Military problems

Lacked strong military and no unified command.
Anarchists and communists would not work together.
Basques refused to be led by a central command structure and would not permit their forces outside of their own territory.
Loyal army forces were not trusted by the Republic.
Military fought series of local battles instead of overall campaign and this meant they could not be supported by the airforces, or to sustain an offensive campaign.
Only until end of 1939 that Republicans started to replace militias with 'Popular Army'.

Economic problems

Areas under the anarchists were the industries, public utilities and transport - these were taken over by workers' committees, however they were unable to meet the demands of the war.
Historians argue that this was not due to a badly run government but due to the war, however the government is partially to blame.
Production fell by two-thirds between 1936 to 1939, with many food and raw material shortages.
Inflation was a problem; rose 300% during the war.
Prevented an influx of support for warring parties in Spain, making the Republic lose all credit and USSR was the only willing trader.
Paul Preston: communist control ultimately improved the situation by centralising control, but too late to save Republic.

Foreign assistance

Role of foreign aid was exaggerated, but aid given to Republic was far less than that of the Nationalists.
Republic's main ally was USSR, who saved them and enabled it to fight the civil war by supplying aircraft (1,000) and tanks (750), but the Republic had to pay for this.
No Soviet troops were sent.
Had very little overall impact, only in Madrid.
1938, Soviets withdrew support and International Brigades went home, major blow for Republic.
France sent aid initially, but stopped when it joined the NIC - this was driven by anti-communist sentiments.
Francisco J .Romero Salvadó (on NIC): "preserved consensus [in France] and [avoided] confrontation with Germany and Italy."

Nationalist strengths

Political unity.

1936, Nationalists almost dived as Republics; but had a common aim of overthrowing the government.
Due to his position in command of the Army of Africa because important German aid came through him.
Merged two parties into the Spanish Traditionalist Phalanax (FET).
Historians argue that Soviet involvemenet led to this, however others suggest it was power and authority gained during the war.
Supported by the church which denounced atheist communism and called for a crusade to protect Christian civilisation.
Nationalistic politics of Franco were not undermined by foreign support from Germany or Italy.

Military unity

Nationalists had similar problems to the Republicans with regard to 'columns' of militias, however these were quickly put into a regular army unit.
The Army of Africa fought for the Nationalists and were the most effective force in the Civil War.
Had unified command and Franco's leadership was accepted by other generals and right-wing parties.
Italian forces under Nationalist command.
Successful in pushing on and winning offensives, and adopted effective defensive tactics.
Had sound communications, and equipped the growing army.
Franco's concern for his troops ensured the majority were obedient.
Franco was a sound military and political leader.

Economic advantage

Business communist supported Nationalists; could buy supplies.
By September 1936, Nationalists in control of main food-producing areas.
1937, in control of main industrial areas.
Benefited from International trade, with the USA giving about $700 million credit to Nationalists.
Hugh Thomas: conflict 'became an international crisis whose solution was decided by external circumstances.'
Rebels benefited from more aid, which were better quality than those of the Republicans, and had continuous supply.
German's airlifted Moroccan soldiers and sent 10,000 troops, 800 aircraft, 200 tanks.
Italians sent 70,000+ troops, 750 planes, 800 aircraft, 200 tanks.
Portuguese sent 20,000 troops.
All aid allowed Nationalists to fight, and gave them air dominance.
Most of Nationalist army was Spanish, and was modern and equipped.

Overview: foreign intervention

Foreign intervention lengthened and intensified the war.
It meant Spanish issues were submerged by wider ideological battles taking place in Europe.
Feared the war would become a general European conflict so set up the NIC.
However, 3 key members of the NIC ignored the NIC.
Britain's not interventionist policies were limited and generally supported the Nationalists.
December 1936, signed a trade agreement with Nationalists to allow for trade.
Britain did not want to damage relations with Italy or Portugal.
Spain was sacrificed to the policy of appeasement like Czechoslovakia.
Support for Republic was inconsistent, and reflected complexity of its position towards the war.
French did not want a right-wing border (joining Italy and Germany), but French politics were also polarised, fearing a revolt if it fully supported Spain.
France was reliant on Britain, which was anti-Republic for its foreign policies.
France restricted themselves to humanitarian assistance.
Republic would have benefited from France as it was on its border.
The Republic's reliance on the Soviet polarised politics and associated it with 'Soviet communism.'
France did not stop citizens joining the International Brigades, which was organised in France, just like the coordination of Soviet aid.
Support not just because of ideological reasons.
Emergence of another fascist state in Europe would strengthen Hitler's position - threat to Stalin.
Wanted to form an alliance with Britain and France to contain Hitler.
Stalin originally welcomed the NIC, but Germany and Italy's treatment of NIC, Stalin withdrew in October 1936.
Some historians argue that Franco protracted the war to enhance his power, but Stalin had a tendency to drag fighting out.
Drained resources from Germany, making it less likely to turn into a general war.
Stalin withdrew support in June 1938, as the Republic seemed to be losing and Western democracies were appeasing fascist dictaros.
Stalin wanted to create a block to resist Hitler ended with Czechoslovakia being blocked at Munich agreement, September 1938.
Germany not ready for general European war and was cautious when rebels appealed for help.
Hermann Göring decided to support rebels, as he and Hitler wanted to stop the spread of communism, and wanted to test out the Luftwaffe.
Economic and strategic benefits; raw materials (iron) could be gained, and could hamper Anglo-French maritime communications.
Hitler thought the war would not last long, committed limited aid.
Ignored NIC, even though it was a member.
Germany played a crucial military role at critical times and other governments deterred from getting involved due to its presence.
Gave most assistance as Mussolini was anti-comminist/-socialist and democratic outlook, he wanted to enhance his influence in Mediterranean, and a fascist victory would weaken France and prevent French left-wing influence.
Another fascist power would encircle France, pressurising French colonies in North Africa.
Historians argue that despite massive troop support, its most effective support was air and naval.
Italy ignored membership of NIC.
Relationship between Italy and Germany were cemented in Spain.
Only foreign force not compromised by membership of NIC.
Sent 20,000 troops and fundamental supplier of rebels in the south-west.
Provided a base for communications.
Britain's long-term alliance with Portugal made the British reluctant to count its support for Nationalists.

The nature of the Spanish Civil War

For foreign powers it was limited, for the Spanish it was total civil war.
Propaganda was used to dehumanise the enemy.
Atrocities were common.
The targeting of civilians was a premonition of what was to come in WWII - no lines drawn between civilian and combatant.
Some cases, cavalry charges proved effective, such as in Teruel in February 1938.
Other case, such as the crushing of Republican offensives in 1938 to 1938 with combined arms and air strikes showed the importance of technology.
Neither side could consistently gain air control.
Control of sea was important especially for supply routes.
Battles on land were similar to that of WWI with defense remained easier than attack.
Casualties were high, with attackers gaining little hand.
Blitzkrieg was evolving with application of tanks, artillery, and air bombardment.
It was not a guerrilla war because, from Antony Beevor, "the conditions for a universal guerrilla war simply did not exist."

III. Effects and results of the Spanish Civil War − Spain

100,000 Republicans were killed
70,000 Nationalists were killed
Killing continued after war, as Franco launched terror campaign to eradicate competition (estimated death toll 40,000-200,000).
Thousands Republicans were held in concentration camps and prisons.
Republican children were taken from parents to be re-educated. this meant many families were separated
Divisions and hatred remained in Spanish society for decades.

Economic cost

10-15% of wealth was destroyed; per capita income declined 28%; 70% of Madrid's factory machinery need to be replaced.
Madrid's communication systems, tram network needed rebuilding.
Two-thirds of merchant ships out of action.
High inflation.
Republican land reform reversed.
Agricultural economy was inefficient and ineffective.
Labourers tolerated periodic unemployment, and landowners not interested in modernisation.
Massive debts.
General labour shortage.
Economy improved due to outbreak of WW2; Franco began trading with Britain and France again.
Germany's exploitation of Spain's economy during WWII weakened the economy.
France and Britain's loan to Spain gave it influence in Spanish politics.
Suffered a famine in 1946, and was fairly isolated during the war.
During the Cold War, Spain became less isolated with reforms in the 1950s and 1960s developing a capitalist state.
Spain industralised and developed a strong service industry.

Political effects

Paul Preston: "as if it were a country occupied by a victorious foreign army."
Exodus of half a million Spaniards and murder of thousands of Republicans.
Teachers, lawyers, researches, doctors, writers, poets, artists, and musicians fled the country.
1939, Law of Political Responsibility made supports of Republic liable to punishment.
Objective of new regime to restore power to the privileged class and control the working class.
CNT and UGT destroyed.
Inequalities of social and working system in rural areas were reversed and preserved by Civil Guard.
1950s was an 'era of the national church' as Church reforms were repealed.
Frances Lannon: "The Catholic Church enjoyed a degree of state support that was much greater than at any time since the 18th century. Government and church combined to preach order, hierarchy, and discipline. The counter-revolution had triumphed."
Patricia Knight: Church's creation of links to worker's movements was an attempt to infiltrate and prevent any resurgent communist groups.
Use of Catalan, Basque, and Galician languages were forbidden.
All power centralised in Madrid.
Paul Preston: "behind the rhetoric of national and social unity, until the death of Franco every effort was made to maintain the division between the victors and the vanquished."
Suppression and removal of political opposition created economic stability.
Army lost its pre-eminence in society after Morocco gained independence in 1946.
The country became 'frozen in time' as no moderinsation took place for 36 years.

Effects and results of the Spanish Civil War

Ussr and communism.

After the Communist defeat in Spain, international credibility had been lost.
Stalin's contribution caused divisions within the left wing and disillusioned supporters of the USSR.
Lost intellectual sympathy from West.
Pushed foreign policy away from potential western alliances against Germany, only one to appease Germany.
After NIC, obvious that Britain and France would not ally with Hitler's expansionist ambitions.
Stalin became closer, possible ally by December 1937.
Munich Agreement in September 1938 was turning point as Britain sacrificed Czechoslovakia and Spain to appease Germany.

Hilter's Germany and Mussolini's Italy

Importance of air power and effectiveness of applying air cover for ground troops in Blitzkrieg.
Germans tested bullet-resistant fuel tanks and discovered possible improvements.
Bombing of civilians was effective.
All these made differences to Hitler's 1939-40 campaign.
However, Italians defeated at Guadalajara, Blitzkreig did not work.
Germany and Italy grew closer.
The NIC, Britain's pursuit of appeasement, all strengthened Hitler's position.

Britain and France

Spanish civilians who were bombed made it clear that a general European war would witness horrors unlike the scale seen before.
Polarised political view of appeasement; some thought warring factions should battle it without dragging democracies into conflict.
"Weakness" of Britain and France over Spain, and their policy of appeasement, led Hitler to change perception of Britain - 1938 lost respect and the NIC made Hitler more aggressive.
Remained neutral, yet horrified by the atrocities of the Spanish Civil War.
The civil war strengthened isolationist sentiment.
Roosevelt, October 1937: "Quarantine the Aggressors."
Called for economic sanctions against Franco in 1946. All members broke up diplomatic relations.
Spain excluded from Marshall Aid.
1951, Eisenhower agreed to grant aid to Spain in return for using air base.
Spain became a US ally and permitted to join the UN.

Was the Spanish Civil War a cause of World War II?

It emboldened Hitler by increasing his popularity at home and abroad.
Hitler drew closer to his former enemy, Italy.
Hitler gained practical military lessons that he would later apply in the campaigns of 1940. It was a distraction for Britain and pushed the USA further into isolation.
If fostered a new direction for Soviet foreign policy, meaning that there could be no broad alliance in Europe to contain Hitler.
A. J. P. Taylor: The Spanish Civil War was "without significant effect" in causing WWII.

The Causes of the Spanish Civil War Essay Practise Worksheet

The Spanish Civil War was a complex and multifaceted conflict fought between 1936 and 1939 and had far-reaching political, social, and economic consequences for Spain and the wider world. The “Causes of the Spanish Civil War Worksheet” is a comprehensive and engaging lesson plan designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the underlying factors that led to the outbreak of this conflict. This lesson plan covers a wide range of topics, including the war’s political, regional, military, socio-economic and religious aspects. It is perfect for history teachers who want to engage their students with this historic event’s complex and nuanced nature.

Through a range of critical thinking exercises, essay plans, and a class debate, this lesson plan will help students to develop their analytical skills, hone their ability to think critically and gain a deeper appreciation of the causes and consequences of the Spanish Civil War. In addition, the interactive and engaging nature of the activities included in this lesson plan will help to foster a sense of curiosity and excitement in students about history and its relevance to their lives and the world around them.

“Causes of the Spanish Civil War Worksheet” is designed to be adaptable to various educational settings and can be used in multiple ways, depending on the needs and interests of individual students and classes. Whether you are teaching a unit on modern European history or want to give your students a deeper understanding of the Spanish Civil War, this lesson plan is the perfect tool to help you achieve your goals.

Overall, the “Causes of the Spanish Civil War Worksheet” is an essential tool for any history teacher who wants to inspire their students to engage with history in a meaningful and thought-provoking way and to help them develop the skills they need to become effective critical thinkers and engaged global citizens. With this lesson plan, your students will gain a deeper understanding of the complex and nuanced nature of history and be better equipped to make sense of the world around them.

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The Causes of the Spanish Civil War Essay Practice Worksheet

Subject: History

Age range: 16+

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26 April 2024

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Robert D. Farber University Archives and Special Collections

Spanish civil war periodical collection, 1923-2009.

Description by Sean Beebe, doctoral student in History and Archives & Special Collections assistant.

Jan. 23, 1938 edition of Nuevo Ejercito, newspaper of the 47ty Division of the Republican army.

A large number of periodicals created during the Spanish Civil War were created by the fighting forces, many by particular units within those forces. These publications were intended to promote the image of those fighters and to help maintain unit morale and cohesion. The January 23, 1938 edition of Nuevo Ejercito (New Army), the newspaper of the 47th Division of the Republican army, contained a summary of the division’s recent combat activity; a Catalan-language page; and unit news, all interspersed with photographs of the division’s soldiers in winter action.

A similar approach is found in La Voz de la Sanidad, the newspaper of the international medical brigade attached to the 15th Division. Befitting the brigade’s multinational status, the paper was written in four languages: Spanish, French, English and German. La Voz de la Sanidad’s content consisted of a mixture of the same items reproduced—side-by-side or on succeeding pages—in each of the four languages, alongside items, both informative and comic, unique to each language.

"Die erste Schlact" with cover showing a line drawing of a soldier superimposed over a section of a map labeled casa delcamp.

A second type of periodical served to call for material support for the Republican side. In New York City, African-Americans combined this support with efforts to combat racism at home. The Negro Committee to Aid Spain, sponsored by such notables as Mary McLeod Bethune, Langston Hughes, A. Philip Randolph, Paul Robeson, and Richard Wright, published a pamphlet entitled “A Negro Nurse in Republican Spain,” which recounted the story of Salaria Kee, an African-American nurse from Harlem who joined the volunteer American Medical Unit in 1937.

Kee’s story was juxtaposed with a more general account of those of African-American men who had volunteered for the International Brigades, as racism at home “appeared to them as part of the picture of fascism,” which could be most directly confronted in Spain. The pamphlet chronicled Kee’s early life, decision to go to Spain and her service there, both in hospitals and directly behind the lines — until a shell wound made her unfit for further service. Kee returned to America, and joined the fundraising campaign for which the pamphlet was produced. The text concluded with a quotation from Kee: “Negro men have given up their lives there…as courageously as any heroes of any age. Surely Negro people will just as willingly give of their means to relieve the suffering of a people attacked by the enemy of all racial minorities — fascism — and its most aggressive exponents — Italy and Germany.”

"Spain Illustrated" with picture of smiling soldier and text that reads "A year's fight for democracy. New Articles. New Pictures. New Facts."

One further form of publication, that of outright propaganda designed to influence hearts and minds, forms an extensive part of the collection. A 1937 edition of the British magazine Spain Illustrated featured photographs (including those of corpses) and articles portraying “a year’s fight for democracy,” and condemning the Nationalists and their fascist backers for the tremendous suffering inflicted upon the Spanish people. The non-interventionist policy of the Western democracies was vilified as an utter failure, with Parliament coming in for particular criticism for its “pro-fascist” stance. Most dramatically, the magazine contended that the defeat of the Republicans would be but the prelude “for attacking England and France…all hope of peace in Europe would be at an end.”

Cover of the Apr.26, 1939 edition of German magazine "Die Woche" with photo of Spanish commander Franco saluting.

Finally, the example of quasi-neutral international media opens an interesting window on to how the conflict was perceived outside of Spain, outside of an obvious ideological lens. In August 1936, the famed French illustrated magazine, L’Illustration , published a special edition dedicated to the civil war. L’Illustration ’s version of the war was one of utter tragedy, in which “fratricidal” conflict split the nation apart; its editors “could only see in the two Spains in conflict a single country which we love and which suffers.” Consequently, the magazine presented images of the conflict’s devastation, whether the rather graphic images of corpses left in public places, those of defiled churches, or of cities after bombardments and shelling. These particularly dramatic choices appear to serve an almost fatalistic reading of the conflict, in which no action can be taken but to observe this tremendous amount of suffering.

Cover of French illustrated magainze "L'Illustration" showing soldiers in the streets.

May 2, 2015

Brandeis University's Archives & Special Collections holds a significant amount of material relating to the Spanish Civil War, including over 4,700 books, close to 400 periodicals and roughly 250 posters. In addition, the Charles Korvin photograph collection comprises 244 black and white images taken during the War. Follow the links below for further information about these holdings:

Spanish Civil War periodical collection, 1923-2009 (finding aid)

Charles Korvin photographs, circa 1937-1938 (finding aid)

Spanish Civil War posters, 1936-1938 on Brandeis University’s Institutional Repository

Spotlight on the Spanish Civil War posters

Spotlight on the SCW poster ¡Jovenes! (circa 1937)

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Spanish Civil War (1936-1939): Archives at Yale

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Spanish Civil War Collection This collection documents society and events during the Spanish Civil War. Formats include magazines, comic books, handbills, pamphlets, broadsides, manuscripts, diaries, and toys.
André Landín Correspondence 136 letters between Spanish Nationalist André Landín and his family members, 1936-1946. Letters document Landín's service in the Spanish Civil War, his time in the Spanish army, his service in Russia with the Azul Division, and his assignment to the Army Ministry after the war. The bulk of the correspondence is between Landín and his wife, Marichrista Landín.
Argimiro Bosch Letters Thirty-one letters written by Argimiro Bosch, a Republican soldier in the Spanish Civil War, to his wife, Angelita Talens Bo, and his family. The letters document Bosch's time as a prisoner in Valencia.
Chiaromonte (Nicola) Papers The Nicola Chiaromonte Papers consist of correspondence, manuscripts, clippings and notebooks documenting the professional life of Chiaromonte. Prominent correspondents include Lionel Abel, Andrea Caffi, Albert Camus, Mary McCarthy, Dwight MacDonald, Gaetano Salvemini, and Ignzaio Silone. Series II contains typescripts, notes and clippings of many articles by Chiaromonte, including several concerning the Spanish Civil War.
Claude McKay Collection Contains a file folder labels "Spain and the Spanish Civil War", 1935-1938.
Edwin Borchard Papers Yale Law School professor and specialist in international law. Contain correspondence with American Friends of Spanish Democracy, 1937-1940, article and speech both entitled "The Spanish Civil War and Its Implications. There may be related materials in his general correspondence.
Ernst Toller papers A small amount of correspondence (1933-1939) is largely concerned with his Spanish Relief Project, devoted to raising funds to alleviate the consequences of the Civil War in Spain.
Felipe Lorenzo Famoso Diary Diary covering the career of Felipe Lorenzo Famoso, a Spanish soldier in Morocco and Spain, from 1923-1949.
Fenton (Charles Andres Papers) The papers consist almost entirely of bibliographical material, newspaper magazine articles, excerpts from books and news dispatches collected for his proposed work on American literary approaches to the Spanish Civil War. There is also a small amount of correspondence (1954-1960).
Harry Weinberger Papers Includes correspondence from Emma Goldman to Weinberger, her lawyer, regarding her post-deportation travels and activities in the Spanish Civil War before her death in 1940.
Historical picture collection Contains one folder with photos of the Spanish Civil War.
Jaime Arando Correspondence Seventy-two letters from Jaime Arando to his father, Francisco Arando, dating from 1937-1940. Jaime Arando was active on the Ebro Front, spent time in a concentration camp, and later joined the National Army.
Joan Alzina Papers Papers of Joan Alzina, Catalan soldier in the Spanish Civil War’s Republican Army, 24th Army Group, Group Logistics, 3rd Section. Includes seven notebooks documenting Alzina’s service in the army, his time as a prisoner at Navalpino, and his tenure as a prison guard for a mental hospital at Alcalá de Henares, Madrid for other Republican prisoners. Alzina’s notebooks written during the war include uncensored drafts of letters to family members. Also included is a drawing by Alzina of Mickey Mouse as a soldier and notes by Alzina on how to dig and fortify trenches.
Joaquim Sancho Papers Papers of Joaquim Sancho, a Spanish Civil War soldier fighting for the Republican cause. The bulk of the collection comprises Sancho's correspondence, spanning from the period of his military service in the Regular Spanish Army, No. 55, VIII Grupo and the 4th Company, 103rd Mixed Brigade, through his time as a prisoner in a Nationalist concentration camp. Before Sancho’s capture, he typically wrote in Catalan, and during his capture he wrote in Spanish. In addition to correspondence, the collection includes a 1938 manuscript map with notes of the trench works of the 103rd Mixed Brigade; lists of phone calls and correspondences Sancho sent and received; a likeness of Gandhi drawn on the back of Sancho’s registration for the Republican Independent Party of Catalunya; a likeness of Franco drawn on an envelope; and manuscript and printed fragments of material pertaining to the war.
Langston Hughes Papers Contains well-documented photos of Hughes' trip to Spain during the Civil War (Series XII) and a group of correspondence cards from the Spanish Civil War (Series XXII.) In his professional correspondence there is a folder of "Spanish Letters" with dates in the late 1930s (Series II); Joint Anti-Fascist Refugee Committee correspondence dating from 1944-1953 in Box 245; Abraham Lincoln Brigade correspondence dated 1938-1966 and Veterans of the American Lincoln Brigade correspondence dated 1944-1949.
Lluís Baró Segimón Correspondence Forty-eight letters between Lluís Baró Segimón and his wife, Pilar Val de Baró. Lluís Baró Segimón fought with the Republican 27th Division during the Spanish Civil War, and postmarks indicate that Lluís wrote from the front lines of the war to Pilar in Morell, Tarragona.
Louise Crane and Victoria Kent papers Victoria Kent's correspondence and subject files are a window into the activities of the expatriate Spanish community in the United States following the Spanish Civil War. The papers also relate to Crane and Kent's work to publish the Spanish-language magazine Ibérica as well as their personal relationship.
Louise Morgan and Otto Theis papers Contains the Nancy Cunard papers. Cunard was an "ardent anti-Fascist and put her press and energy to work supporting the Communists." Includes materials on "Spanish Civil War/Fascism." There may be potentially relative material in her correspondence.
Lucy Kramer Cohen Papers The papers of Felix S. Cohen include research material, clippings, and correspondence relating to Puerto Rico and the Spanish Civil War.
María Pilar Fort Trigo diary Diary of María Pilar Fort Trigo, a woman from Valencia, Spain, covering 1936 October through 1938 January, and lacking 1937 December. The diary describes the everyday life of a Spanish woman during the Spanish Civil War and discusses gender relations in Spain and Fort Trigo's engagement to a lawyer, Enrique Jorro Vives. Also includes Fort Trigo's obituary.
Mas Yebra Family Correspondence Correspondence of the Mas Yerba family, a prominent political family in Barcelona. The correspondence includes one hundred thirty-three letters exchanged among the family members and their associates during the Spanish Civil War. Also includes a small amount of the family's legal and financial papers.
Photographs of James Weldon Johnson Box 16 contains photographs taken by Johnson relating to the Spanish Civil War.
Puertes family Correspondence on the Spanish Civil War The collection consists of correspondence from Republican soldiers during the Spanish Civil War. Most were written by Isidoro Puertes, a soldier who served with the 4th Company, of the 4th Battalion of the 225 "Brigada Mixta." Antonio Puertes, probably Isidoro's cousin, served with him. Letters, sometimes written by both men jointly, were sent to their family members.
Ralph Bates Papers Contains a few photographs and documents concerning his International Brigade service during the Spanish Civil War.
Ramon Llado correspondence Eleven letters between Ramon Llado, a Republican soldier in the Spanish Civil War, and his family. Seven letters are from Ramon to his wife, Concepcion. Three letters are from Concepcion to Ramon, and one letter is to Ramon from his sister, Dionisia, and his brother-in-law.
Russian state military archives collection, 1919-1941 The collection consists of photocopies of documents in the Russian State Military Archive (Rossiskii Gosudarstvennyi Voennyi Arkhiv) in Moscow. The documents relate to German-Soviet military and economic relations between 1918 and 1941, and the use of Soviet tanks in the Spanish Civil War, 1936-1939.
Spanish and Portuguese Architecture Photograph Collection Some material documents bomb damage during the Spanish Civil War.
War Poster Collection Large collection of posters and handbills from the Spanish Civil War.

The Spanish Civil War: Battleground for Idealists - Documentary

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Vértice Heavily illustrated women's magazine published by the Falange española tradicionalista y de las J.O.N.S. Includes literary supplements
Flechas y Pelayos Flechas y pelayos was a periodical for children and youth linked to the Falange. Comic book with stories.
Almanaque de Flechas y Pelayos.
El mono azul Magazine of the Alianza de Intelectuales Antifascistas
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Causes of the Spanish Civil War

Margot Marston

IB History SL

Analysis of the causes of the Spanish Civil War

The Spanish Civil War began on the 17 th of July 1936. It was a civil war which became known as the dress rehearsal for World War Two and affected the further development of conflict in Europe in the twentieth century. It primarily pitted the Left against the Right, and consequently was seen as a battle of democracy against fascism. During the course of this three year war Spain suffered approximately 500,000 casualtie, making it one of the deadliest wars in Spanish history. The direct causes of the Spanish civil war have been discussed and debated for decades, some believing it was inevitable, others arguing it could have easily been avoided. In retrospect, one can see the web strung between the underlying and immediate causes of the war and three fundamental strands emerge: the society, the economy, and the political systems. Firstly, the political instability presented many problems and ideological differences within the nation continued the polarization of its population. Secondly, the economic conditions of Spain where a forlorn state was crumbling under corruption, archaic tradition of socio-economic separation existed, and lack of modernization and industrialization in the society in general. Lastly, the social condition, one in which the church and the army expressed great influence over the people, hindering change and presenting difficulties for the new republic. These three issues which can be categorized in both the long-term and the short-term were quintessential for causing the onset of the Spanish Civil War.

Before major political polarization had begun, Spain’s government had already been experiencing governmental, economic and societal weaknesses. Since 1871, Spain had been a constitutional monarchy lead under a King, his appointed Prime Minister and the Cortes (parliament). This system however became tainted by corruption and elections became ineffective, with only a small proportion of the electorate having the right to vote. The true power was held by the oligarchs and only the two main parties were recognized: the Conservatives and the Liberals. The army, which had a great influence over the government, was also extremely inefficient. It was a brutal, conservative, expensive and an ineffective burden that required reform and reduction and consequently wadely abhorred by the public. Similarly the prominent role of the church in politics and society promoted conservatism contaminating the educational and economic systems. Spain, as a largely agrarian economy was rife with endemic poverty hindering growth and industrialization. The socio-economic divide between the rich and the poor continued to expand and the poor’s hunger for land continued. Abysmal working conditions, led to the increase of trade unionism as a means to bring about change. Further social and political tension was caused by Catalonian and Basque Provinces struggling against the centralist state with the aim to achieve independence and the growth of opposition through parties such as the anarchists and the communists as well as the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) who longed for revolution. In 1923, the government experienced a bloodless coup led by General Primo de Rivera who attempted the establishment of authoritarian rule to improve Spain’s troublesome situation. He introduced public works schemes building roads and irrigating the land. Industrial production increased threefold from 1923 to 1930 and in 1925 the rebellion in Morocco was ended. However, the great depression of the 1930’s greatly affected Spain’s economy and large debt and further unsolved problems led to De Rivera’s resignation. These events compromise the long-term causes of the war and were the unstable foundation which Spain continued to build from in the following decade.

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In relation to the short-term, the primary cause of the war was the political dissention which fuelled continuous conflict and tension in government and society. In April 1931, municipal elections were held which resulted in the establishment of the Second Republic under the center-left. The monarchy was abolished; however, the new republic was immediately confronted with the ruins that the preceding government had left behind. Manuel Azana, the new prime minister aimed to modernize Spain, yet each new reform was seen as an attack on a form of the right-wing movement. The church’s power and the structure of the army were revised and church and state were made two separate entities and the army was reduced yet also unknowingly radicalized with the nationalist core remaining intact. 10,000 schools were opened to battle the vast illiteracy in the nation. The dire economic situation was addressed by the land redistribution law implemented in 1932 with which some land was redistributed to attempt to lessen the socio-economic gap omnipresent in society. This unfortunately had little success as much as the poor were willing to fight for land, so were the affluent willing fight to preserve it and the process was slowed. Catalonia was granted degrees of self-governance which further enraged the centralist opposition. A new right-wing party, the Confederacion Espanola de Derechas Autonomas (CEDA) was formed to defend the landlords and the church. Widespread violence and civil unrest continued. An anarchist rising was brutally suppressed in January 1933, the Casas Viejas rising, and lost the left-wing republic much support and led to the socialist withdrawal of support from Azana. The November elections of 1933 swerved the Republic to the right with the CEDA in the majority lead by Gil Robles, the new conservative hope. The new right wing government immediately over-turned all of the changes brought in by the Azana government in the two years in power. This immediately furthered polarization as it angered many, but especially the Catalans who had their privileges withdrawn. This was a serious error of judgment as the Catalans and Basques had supported the government in the previous elections and they’re loyalty now lay with the Left. This political clash created the incentive for the many parties of the left to unite against the rising fascism to form the Popular Front composed of anarchists, liberals, socialists, communists, Trotskyists (POUM), Stalinists, republicans, Basques and Catalonians. A general election was called for in February of 1936. In this election, the Popular Front won and Azana, once again became prime minister. Spain however appeared to be heading for chaos as all systems seemed to rapidly deteriorate and no single party was satisfied with another, the polarization created a climate ripe for violence and ultimately war.

Finally, the immediate events brought about the awaited spark which soon engulfed the country in the self-inflicted flames.. On 12 July 1936 members of the Falange murdered Lieutenant José Castillo of the Assault Guards police force and an important member of the socialist party. The following day, members of the Assault Guards arrested , a leading Spanish monarchist and a prominent parliamentary conservative. While in the custody of the police Calvo Sotelo was shot. The killing of Calvo Sotelo, a prominent member in society, with involvement of the police, aroused suspicions and provoked strong reactions among the government's opponents on the right. Massive reprisals followed. Although the conservative Nationalist generals were already in advanced stages of a planned uprising, the event provided a catalyst and convenient public justification for their revolt in Morocco lead under General Franco. In retrospect the war would have occurred whether this event had happened or not, with the population so openly separated however, it had been the trigger which marked the beginning of the civil war

All these events, the long-term, short-term and immediate, set the stage for civil unrest and ultimate war which ensued three years of bloodshed. The Nationalists against the Republicans, represented for many nations Democracy against Fascism which preluded the atrocity which would begin only a few years on. These events, whether political, societal or economic, all contributed to the eventual destruction of the country and where all in one way, shape or form responsible for causing the Spanish Civil War.

Document Details

Author Type Student
Word Count 1298
Page Count 5
Level International Baccalaureate
Subject History
Type of work Coursework

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The Spanish Civil War (36-39)

Introduction

I. Causes of war

II. Practices of war and their impact on the outcome

III. Effects of war

I. Causes of War

Weakness of government

The role of the Spanish Army

The role of the church

Economic causes

The role of regions

Political opposition

The fall of the monarchy and the establishment of the Second Republic

Short-term causes of the Spanish Civil War: political polarisation

The Left Republic (April 1931−November 1933)

The Right Republic (November 1933−February 1936)

The Popular Front (February−July 1936)

Immediate causes of the Spanish Civil War

Perspectives

II. The course of the Spanish Civil War

Why did the Nationalists win the Spanish Civil War?

Military problems

Economic problems

Foreign assistance

Nationalist strengths

Military unity

Economic advantage

Overview: foreign intervention

The nature of the Spanish Civil War

III. Effects and results of the Spanish Civil War − Spain

Economic cost

Political effects

Effects and results of the Spanish Civil War

Hilter's Germany and Mussolini's Italy

Britain and France

Was the Spanish Civil War a cause of World War II?

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Related Essays

Analyse the causes of the Spanish Civil War

the causes and consequences of the spanish civil war

What Were The Causes Of The Spanish Civil War