Spanish Civil War: Key Phases, Conflict, and Consequences

Stages of the Spanish Civil War

First Stage: The Advance on Madrid (July-Nov 1936)

Military operations began the week following the uprising, leading to a phase of the civil war known as the 'War of Columns'. Nationalist forces advanced towards Madrid. By late October, the conquest of the capital appeared imminent, but many men and women on the Republican side resisted it.

Second Stage: Battles Around Madrid & North (Dec 1936-Oct 1937)

The second phase was longer and characterized by the stabilization of both armies. After the failure to occupy Madrid, the Nationalists decided to change strategy in April 1937. During this period, the world's first major bombing of a civilian population occurred (e.g., Guernica).

Third Stage: Advance Towards the Mediterranean (Dec 1937-?)

In December 1937, the Republican Army attempted to take the initiative by triggering new offensives, the most successful being the Battle of Teruel. However, Nationalist counter-offensives led to advances towards the Mediterranean, eventually dividing the Republican territory into two zones.

Fourth Stage: Battle of the Ebro & Final Defeat (July 1938-Apr 1939)

This last phase began in July 1938 with the Battle of the Ebro, one of the greatest military episodes of the war, and ended in April 1939 with the definitive defeat of the Republic.

End of the War

By February 1939, the Republic held no more territory than the central-southern area. At the end of that month, Britain and France recognized the Franco government. In early March, in Paris, Manuel Azaña presented his resignation as President of the Republic.

Consequences of the War

Human Cost and Displacement

For many years, there were no clear figures regarding the victims produced by the Civil War of 1936; today, some doubts remain. From the early months, the Republican civilian population had to leave their homes before the advancing rebel troops. These refugees were concentrated in the eastern area and Catalonia.

• Nearly a thousand children were sent to various European countries, America, and the USSR.
• Approximately half a million Spaniards entered France within a few months.
• The largest group of exiles eventually marched to the USSR.

International Involvement and Economy

A committee for international aid for Spain was formed, but the Republican side did not receive significant help. The Republic had to buy weapons and energy products where it could, which meant it eventually had to use the gold reserves of the Bank of Spain. The Nationalists were more favored by foreign support; German and Italian aid in arms was most important for the rebel advance.