Spanish Civil War Flashcards
What event marked the beginning of the Spanish Civil War?
The Spanish Civil War began with a military coup led by General Francisco Franco against the democratically elected Popular Front government.
What were the political divisions in Spain that led to the war?
The war stemmed from deep political divisions, including dissatisfaction with the Second Spanish Republic and social inequalities among peasants and workers.
What was Franco’s military background?
Franco, trained in colonial warfare, gained experience during the Rif War in Morocco, positioning him as a key figure in the Nationalist uprising.
Where was Franco stationed before the war?
Before the war, Franco was stationed in the Canary Islands; he quickly flew to Morocco to take command of the Spanish Army after the coup.
What title was Franco given on October 1, 1936?
Franco was declared Generalísimo and Head of State by the Junta de Defensa Nacional, establishing him as the supreme commander of Nationalist forces.
What strategic decision did Franco make early in the war?
Franco delayed the assault on Madrid to rescue besieged troops at Toledo, demonstrating his strategic thinking.
How did Franco unify the Nationalist factions?
Franco effectively unified various Nationalist factions under his leadership, consolidating power and ensuring a coordinated military strategy.
What role did foreign support play in Franco’s success?
Franco received significant military aid from Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, bolstering his forces and contributing to Nationalist victories.
How did Franco use propaganda to shape his public image?
Franco cultivated a strong public image as a patriotic leader fighting against communism and anarchy, portraying himself as a savior of traditional Spanish values.
What was the outcome of the executions of political opponents?
As Nationalist forces advanced, they executed tens of thousands suspected of supporting Republicans, solidifying Franco’s control.
How did Franco maintain control over Nationalist forces?
Franco maintained strict control over Nationalist forces by positioning himself as both a military leader and political head.
What was the relationship between Franco and the Catholic Church?
Franco aligned closely with the Catholic Church, gaining its support which helped legitimize his rule.
What tactics did the Nationalists use to control dissent?
The Nationalists employed terror tactics, including executions and forced labor camps, to intimidate potential dissenters.
What was significant about the Siege of Madrid?
The prolonged siege became emblematic of Republican resistance, with fierce opposition delaying Franco’s capture of the capital.
What was the outcome of the Battle of Ebro?
The major offensive by Republican forces ended in defeat, marking a turning point that allowed Franco to consolidate control over Spain.
What characterized Franco’s leadership style?
Franco was known for his authoritarian leadership style, centralizing power and ruling without a parliament until 1942.
What was established after Franco won the war?
Franco merged all nationalist parties into FET y de las JONS, creating a one-party state that suppressed political opposition.
How did Franco cultivate loyalty among his troops?
Franco fostered loyalty among his troops through personal charisma and promoting national unity against leftist threats.
What economic policies did Franco implement during wartime?
Franco’s regime implemented economic measures prioritizing resource allocation for war efforts, leading to post-war economic challenges.
What was the impact of international brigades on the war?
The involvement of international brigades highlighted global ideological battles, but their defeat underscored Franco’s dominance.
What happened on April 1, 1939?
With the declaration of victory, Franco solidified his position as Spain’s dictator, ruling with an iron fist.
What repression occurred following Franco’s victory?
Franco initiated widespread repression against Republicans, with thousands executed or imprisoned during the ‘White Terror.’
What did Franco declare in 1947?
In 1947, Franco declared Spain a monarchy with himself as regent, aiming to legitimize his rule.
What was Franco’s stance during World War II?
Although officially neutral, Franco sympathized with Axis powers and provided limited support to Germany.
What was the legacy of the Spanish Civil War?
The war entrenched divisions within Spanish society that influenced politics and culture for generations.
What economic challenges did Spain face post-war?
The civil war left Spain economically devastated, with policies struggling to address poverty and unemployment.
What was Spain’s international status post-civil war?
Spain faced international isolation due to its fascist regime, impacting diplomatic relations until after WWII.
What repression did leftists face under Franco’s regime?
Leftists faced severe repression, with many executed or imprisoned to eliminate opposition to his rule.
What was the cultural impact during Franco’s rule?
Cultural expression was heavily censored, with artists and intellectuals opposing his ideology facing persecution.
What was the final consolidation of power by Franco?
By April 1939, after defeating Republican forces, Franco established a dictatorship that lasted until his death in 1975.
