The Spanish Civil War

The War Begins

Jul 17, 1936

General Francisco Franco declares that the rebellion has begun from his base in the Canary Islands, as his Nationalist troops take over many provincial capitals. The Spanish Civil War begins when they are unable to take over Madrid.

Soldiers Arrive

Oct 14, 1936

The first International Bridgades trainees arrive at Albacete, Spain to fight for the Republican Party, while the governments of Italy and Germany provide support for Francisco Franco's Nationalist Party.

The Siege of Madrid

Nov 6, 1936

Nationalist troops arrive at Madrid, meeting an International Brigades troop, and a 28-month-long siege of the city begins

Guernica

Apr 26, 1937

The Republican-held city of Guernica is bombed, killing hundreds. Pablo Picasso is inspired by the destruction and paints Guernica.

The Fall of Bilbao

Jun 19, 1937

The city of Bilbao is taken by the Nationalist Party following a two-month siege. Barcelona and Madrid remain free cities.

The Last Hope Diminishes

Nov 18, 1938

The Republican Party's final hope fails as Barcelona falls in February of 1939 after the Battle of the Ebro, and a surge of refugees rushes out of the country and into France.

The End of the Republic

Mar 28, 1939

Franco's troops march into Madrid. Facing no challenges as the citizens starved during the winter and the government officials had abandoned Spain prior to their arrival, Madrid fell quickly to the Nationalist Party, giving way to a dictatorship.