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Franco's Rise to Power
In 1916, age 23 and already a captain, he was badly wounded in a skirmish at El Biutz and possibly lost a testicle.His survival marked him permanently in the eyes of the native troops as a man of baraka (good luck). He was recommended for Spain's highest honor for gallantry, the coveted Cruz Laureada de San Fernando, but was instead promoted to major in the Spanish Army -
Period: to
Francisco Franco
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Franco's Appointed to Generalissimo
In October 1936, Franco was appointed generalissimo of Nationalist Spain and head of state. -
Franco is Recognized
In November 1936, Nazi Germany and Fascist Spain recognised Franco as the legitimate ruler of Spain. His government was recognised as legitimate by the French and the British in February 1939. -
Hitler and Franco Meet
In September 1939, World War II broke out in Europe, and on 23 October 1940 Hitler and Franco met in Hendaye, France, to discuss the possibility of Spain's entry on the side of the Axis. However, Franco's demands, which included food, military equipment, and Spanish control of Gibraltar and French North Africa proved too much for Hitler, and no agreement was reached. -
Franco's Death
Franco's death on November 20, 1975 was due to Parkinson's Disease [Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the brain that leads to shaking (tremors) and difficulty with walking, movement, and coordination.]
