Spanish Civil War: Nationalists and Republicans 1936-1937
Classified in History
Written at on 
English with a size of 2.35 KB.
Nationalist Faction (1936)
Political Power: Military control in Nationalist areas, contrasting with the Republic. Sanjurjo and Mola initially led, but Sanjurjo's death in a plane crash altered the leadership.
Military Command: A five-member junta (Mola, Cabanelles, Saliquet, Ponte, Dávila) directed the Nationalist forces, emphasizing hierarchical obedience.
Economy: The army controlled production and distribution to sustain the war effort, ensuring food supply and militarizing the economy.
Social Repression: Suppression of opposing ideas was enforced on both sides.
Nationalist Initiatives (Oct 1936 - May 1937)
Military Campaigns: Attempts to expand territory through Madrid and Málaga campaigns, involving international troops, notably Italian forces.
Madrid Campaign: Reached Madrid's outskirts but failed to capture the capital, halted by the International Brigades at Guadalajara.
Guernica Bombing: A significant event during this period.
Republican Faction (Oct 1936 - May 1937)
Government Change: Giral's resignation led to Largo Caballero's government, aiming for a unified militia and incorporating anarchists like Federica Montseny.
Popular Army: The goal was to unite all Republican sectors and militias into a cohesive army.
Internal Conflict: May 1937 saw clashes in Barcelona due to disagreements among Republicans over militia integration.
Basque Autonomy: Approval of Basque Country's autonomous status with José Antonio Aguirre as the first Lehendakari, leading to the Guernica bombing.
International Support: Appeals for aid to democratic countries were unsuccessful, but the Soviet Union provided support in exchange for gold reserves.
Nationalist Rearguard (Oct 1936 - May 1937)
Leadership Shift: Deaths of Sanjurjo and Mola led to Franco's appointment as Generalísimo, favored by Germany for his perceived neutrality and military focus.
Foreign Support: Germany and Italy aided the Nationalists. Italy provided troops and materials, while Germany sent the Condor Legion. Portugal offered logistical support.