How did the Spanish Civil War begin?
The Spanish Civil War of 1936–1939 followed a military uprising against the elected Republic.
Historical context and developments
Both Republican and Nationalist sides contained diverse factions. Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy supported the Nationalists, while foreign volunteers joined the Republic. Bombing, executions and exile devastated civilians.
Consequences and interpreting sources
Franco’s forces won in 1939 and established a long dictatorship. Calling it merely a rehearsal for World War II obscures Spain’s own causes and consequences.
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