From Tsarist Russia to the Spanish Civil War: A Tumultuous Era

The October Revolution

The slowness of land reform fueled popular discontent and bolstered the Bolsheviks' influence. They envisioned a government of Soviets representing workers and peasants. Their program promised peace, land redistribution, and nationalization of banking and transport. On October 25th, the Bolsheviks seized power, dismissing the provisional government. With support from the Russian Congress of Soviets, Lenin formed a workers' government. The new government immediately expropriated land and placed factories under the control of worker committees.

The Dictatorship of Primo de Rivera (1923-1931)

In 1923, Miguel Primo de Rivera launched a coup d'état, establishing a military dictatorship inspired by Italian fascism. The regime suspended the constitution, dissolved parliament, and banned political parties and trade unions. Elected officials were removed, and strict press censorship was imposed. The Commonwealth of Catalonia and Catalan public institutions were abolished, accompanied by harsh repression. The dictatorship's survival was linked to a favorable international economic climate and the Moroccan conflict. Lacking support, Primo de Rivera resigned in January 1930. Alfonso XIII then appointed General Berenguer as head of government to prepare for elections and a return to constitutional legality.

The Proclamation of the Republic

The 1931 elections became a referendum on the monarchy. Opposition parties formed a coalition, while monarchist parties remained divided. The Republican-Socialist coalition triumphed in major cities and industrial areas, demonstrating a rejection of the monarchy and a desire for change. Thousands demanded the proclamation of a Republic. Alfonso XIII left the country for exile, and on April 14, 1930, the Republic was proclaimed.

The Outbreak of Civil War

On July 17, 1936, in Melilla, Tetuan, and Ceuta, and on July 18th in mainland Spain, Falangists and traditionalists launched a coup d'état. The government's slow response allowed rebels to gain ground in the Canary Islands, North Africa, Pamplona, Seville, Castile and León, and Aragon. On July 19th, arms were given to Popular Front militias to defend the Republic. Security forces and the Republican middle class remained loyal to the government. The uprising was suppressed in Madrid, Catalonia, the Basque Country, Asturias, Santander, Levante, Castile, Extremadura, and Andalusia.