Foreign Powers and the Spanish Civil War

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International Involvement in the Spanish Civil War

Europe and the Western world viewed the Civil War as their own, participating directly or indirectly. It has been said that it was a civil war among Europeans. From the outset, the conflict was international: the Republicans sought help from France, Britain, and the Soviet Union, as well as nationals from Germany and Italy.

The Committee of Non-Intervention and Republican Aid

The committee of non-intervention and aid received by the Republic from Blum's Popular Front government was of great interest to Republicans. However, pressure from the right and British reluctance hindered them. Only 300 planes were able to reach them. Great Britain, concerned about the possibility of Gibraltar being affected and fearing a world war, proposed the creation of a Non-Intervention Committee formed by the UK, Germany, France, USSR, and other countries. This proved a farce as Germany and Italy continued to assist the Nationalist side, and the USSR aided the Republicans. The U.S. initially proposed non-intervention due to its neutrality laws, but President Roosevelt favored the Republic, as did film and journalism. Public opinion was divided. The New York Times had a war correspondent on each side. Mexico directly sent ammunition and rifles from its own army. The USSR was the only power that gave significant support to the Republicans, but their prepayment requirement forced the Republic to send the gold reserves of the Bank of Spain. Their participation was instrumental in the formation of the International Brigades, who played a prominent role in the conflict.

Aid to Franco's Spain

The aid received by Franco's Spain was much more effective than that of the rival group. Italy contributed abundant aid in aircraft, tanks, and volunteers. Germany (for strategic rather than ideological reasons) sent the Condor Legion, with over 500 aircraft, various military equipment, and a significant number of technicians. Franco also received support from Portugal, Viriato, and Irish militia. The Portuguese government provided territory for military operations and to introduce weapons into Spain.

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