Spanish Civil War: Conflict, Factions, and Aftermath

The Spanish Civil War

The Opposing Factions

The Nationalist Side (The Right)

Comprised all sectors discontented with the Republican reforms. They had the support of the Church due to the Republic's secular reforms. The Nationalist side controlled the rural areas of the country, and its capital was established in Burgos.

The Republican Side (The Left)

Grouped the popular classes. Initially, labor organizations acted in defense of the Republic, but internal conflicts arose due to differing political objectives among the various ideologies, which weakened the government and the Republic. They were supported in large cities and industrial regions and controlled the state's financial resources.

Key Military Campaigns

1. The Struggle for Madrid

The priority of the rebels was capturing Madrid. General Mola advanced from Navarre and reached Somosierra, where his advance was halted. General Franco advanced from the south, taking Andalusia, Extremadura, and Toledo. The assault on Madrid was prevented by the Republicans with the help of the International Brigades. Over the next three years, Madrid was besieged and bombarded.

2. The Northern Front

Unable to take Madrid, the Nationalists focused on capturing the north of Spain. This period included the infamous bombing of Guernica by German aircraft. The loss of the North meant the loss of crucial industrial and mining resources for the Republic.

3. The Eastern Front and the End of the War

The battles in these areas were the hardest, resulting in heavy casualties for the Republican military. Franco emerged victorious, advancing through the Ebro Valley to the Mediterranean. From there, Barcelona and Catalonia were taken shortly after. The Republicans could not resist, and Madrid surrendered. The war officially ended on April 1, 1939.

Consequences of the Spanish Civil War

• Demographic Losses: Approximately 700,000 people were killed, including those fallen in battle, executed or murdered by both sides, and victims of bombings and diseases.
• Exile: Half a million people went into exile, mostly to France and Mexico. The bulk of these exiles belonged to the world of culture and science, representing a great loss for Spain.
• Political Repression: Severe repression was enacted against all those who had remained faithful to the Republic. Estimates include 50,000 executed after the war and 300,000 prisoners in Franco's jails, many sentenced to forced labor. Repression continued throughout the 40-year Francoist regime.
• Economic Losses: Extensive damage occurred to public and private buildings, roads, and railways. There were large declines in production, resulting in widespread famine. The economic level did not fully recover until two decades into the Francoist regime.