Revolution, counter-revolution and international intervention in Spain from 1936 to 1939.
The Spanish Civil War began after a military uprising against the elected Republic in July 1936. It combined civil conflict, revolution, counter-revolution and international intervention.
Franco's Nationalist victory created a dictatorship that lasted until 1975. Political violence was committed in both zones, but repression became systematic and enduring under the victorious regime.
The Second Republic attempted land, military, religious and regional reforms amid economic inequality. Left and right became increasingly fragmented and violent.
The military coup failed to seize the whole country, producing war. In Republican areas workers and peasants sometimes collectivised land and industry; competing organisations fought over revolutionary priorities.
Germany and Italy gave decisive military support to Franco. The Soviet Union aided the Republic, while International Brigades volunteered and Britain and France pursued non-intervention.
Nationalist command became unified under Franco. After victory, executions, prisons, forced labour and exile consolidated authoritarian rule.
Monarchy fell and a reforming republic was proclaimed.
A failed coup divided Spain.
German, Italian and Soviet aid internationalised the war.
German aircraft attacked the Basque town.
The Republic's major offensive ended in defeat.
The dictatorship began a long post-war repression.
A negotiated transition followed his dictatorship.
Why did the coup become civil war?
How decisive was foreign aid?
How should unequal systems of repression be compared?
Begin with the foundations, then move into the events, people and debates that add detail and complexity.
HardBuild a secure chronological foundation in Spanish Civil War through ten sourced questions and teaching explanations.
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