The Spanish Civil War Basic Facts: Easy History

The Spanish Civil War was a tragic time period filled with loss, chaos, and destruction. Every war has two sides and the Spanish Civil War was no different.

The Nationalists

The Nationalists included the rebel part of the army, the bourgeoisie, the landlords, and, generally, the upper classes. They were united in their shared anti-communist and strong Catholic beliefs. This side was supported by fascist Germany and Italy and was also better armed.

The Republicans

The left-sided Republicans were made up of unions, communists, anarchists, workers, and peasants. The party was formed by the Spanish government and received international support from the Soviet Union and the European democracies.

What Caused the Spanish Civil War?

The decade leading up to the Spanish Civil War set the stage. Europe faced the Great Depression of the 1930s and already suffered through the First World War. As a result, all European countries, including Spain, faced economic setbacks. 

Spain’s struggle during this time played into its people’s frustrations and desire for change. Although there were two groups in the civil war, their conflict isn’t as simple. People fought over religion, class issues, and various government types vying for control during that time.

Ultimately, the war officially began in 1936 with a coup d’etat led by General Francisco Franco. The previously democratically elected Republican, Manuel Azaña, was exiled and fled to France while Spain erupted into civil war. 

Spanish War Facts

Who Won the Spanish Civil War?

Ultimately, the Nationalist party achieved victory after capturing Madrid. As a result, a dictatorship ruled the country for nearly 40 years after the war was over. From 1939 until he died in 1975, Francisco Franco ruled over Spain. 

In 1970, Franco appointed Prince Juan Carlos as his successor to continue as the head of the dictatorship after his death. However, when Franco finally did pass away in 1975, King Juan Carlos I helped Spain return to democracy instead. He initiated the country’s transition to democracy, ending with Spain becoming a constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament. Spain has remained a democracy ever since.

Lasting Effects of the War

The Spanish Civil War didn’t only affect those who fought during it. In fact, the results of the war impacted Spanish life for decades to come. 

Human Cost

One of the most obvious effects of the war is the loss of human life. Thousands were killed during the war but even that wasn’t the end. Franco later enacted a terror campaign, known as the “White Terror,” to eradicate any opposition. Another 200,000 – 400,000 Spaniards lost their lives as a result. 

Displacement

The war also caused a massive displacement of more than 400,000 people. Thousands of Republicans were held in concentration camps for years, even after the war. Republican children were often taken away from their families to be “re-educated.” Many other Republicans fled the country to escape. 

Political Repression

In 1939, the Law of Political Responsibility created harsh punishments for Republicans. They became liable to punishments such as confiscation of land, large fines, and even the death sentence. 

Economic Cost

The Spanish economy suffered enormously from the war. The income per capita decreased, the infrastructure needed to be rebuilt, inflation was high, and there was a huge labor shortage.