SPANISH CIVIL WAR
1936 - 1939

Who fought?
The Nationalists (rebels,) led by General Francisco Franco and General Emilio Mola vs. the ruling Republicans, led by Francisco Largo Caballero, Juan Negrín, and Manuel Azaña.

The global connections:
Italy and Germany were on the side of the rebels. The Soviet Union, Mexico, and others were on the side of the Republicans.


WHAT GOVERNMENT ruled SPAIN at the time?
The Second Spanish Republic.

WHY DID THEY FIGHT?
Alfonso XIII, the last Spanish monarch, packed his suitcase and left the country on popular demand in 1931. The Second Republic was formed.

The new government shifted things around in a way that church, landowners, high ranking military officials, and wealthy people in general lost power, influence, and money.

Who won?
The Nationalists. General Franco became head of State and held that position until his death in 1975.

Casualties?
Between 500,000 and 1,000,000 soldiers and civilians.

SPANISH CIVIL WAR TODAY
October 12, 2007 - Today's Spain makes it clear what it thinks about the outcome of the Spanish Civil War. A law was issued this week which decrees that all public symbols and references to the Franco regime are to be removed, including street names and statues.