civil war Flashcards
(23 cards)
Fundamental characteristics of the ‘Directorio Militar’ during the dictatorship of Miguel Primo de
Rivera
Restoration of public order
strikes were banned
anarchism and communism were persecuted
Simulation of Spanish nationalism
restrictions on peripheral nationalism
victory in morroco
Fundamental characteristics of the ‘Directorio Civil’ during the dictatorship of Miguel Primo de Rivera
Primo de Rivera didn’t return the power to the people
New political system with fascist overtones supported by the party called “union politica”
State interventionism that favoured protectionist measures
Investment in public works (new railway, lines, roads etc.…)
Optimization of agricultural and hydroelectric exploitations
Increase of primary schools
Social legislation to improve workers conditions
Explain the fall of Miguel Primo de Rivera and the involvement and reaction of Alfonso XIII to this
event.
Miguel Primo de Rivera’s regime collapsed due to several factors, including the economic crisis, growing
discontent, and political instability. Alfonso XIII’s involvement was crucial because he initially supported Primo
de Rivera, but later distanced himself from the regime as it failed to address the country’s problems. The
monarchy’s inability to manage the political and social challenges led to its loss of support, and Primo de Rivera
eventually resigned in 1930.
Explains the dictatorship of General Berenguer and Admiral Aznar
After Primo de Rivera’s resignation, General Berenguer took over as the head of government with the aim of
restoring order and establishing a constitutional monarchy. However, his tenure was marked by limited progress
and growing dissatisfaction. Admiral Aznar briefly succeeded Berenguer but also faced challenges in maintaining
political stability. Both leaders were unable to resolve the deeper issues facing Spain and failed to establish a
more democratic system.
Economic and cultural changes during the dictatorship of Miguel Primo de Rivera.
During his rule, Primo de Rivera implemented some economic reforms, including efforts to improve infrastructure
and address social problems. However, these measures were often insufficient to solve the deeper economic
issues, and the dictatorship did not foster significant cultural or intellectual freedom. Economic conditions
remained difficult for many, contributing to widespread dissatisfaction.
Explain the formation and first measures of the Provisional Government of the Second Republic (don’t
forget to mention the time frame).
After the monarchy was abolished, the Provisional Government of the Second Republic was formed in April
1931. The new government’s first measures included the disestablishment of the Church, reforms to the
education system, and the establishment of women’s suffrage. These changes reflected the desire to modernize
and secularize Spanish society.
What were the main points of the Constitution of 1931?
The Constitution of 1931 established Spain as a republic, provided for universal suffrage, secular education, and
civil liberties. It also created a system of separation of powers and gave significant autonomy to regional
governments, marking a shift away from monarchy and towards a more democratic structure.
what was the name given to theperiod of the first legitimate government of the second republic? who led it? explain the most important reforms of this period (dont forget the time frame)
the first legitimate gornment was led by the radical socialist coalition under the leadership of niceto alcala-zamora. key reforms included labor laws, education reform, and land redistribution. this period lasted from 931 to 1933
Explain which social sectors were upset with the reforms of the first legitimate government of the
republic and what will be their most important direct consequences (do not forget the time frame).
The reforms of the first legitimate government faced opposition from several social sectors, especially
conservatives, the military, and landowners. These reforms alienated powerful groups, leading to political
instability and the rise of more conservative factions. The backlash had significant consequences, including the
rise of the right-wing political groups.
Explain the ‘Bienio Radical-Cedista’ (Do not forget the time frame).
The Radical-Cedista period marked a right-wing shift in the government after the Radical-Socialist coalition. It
was characterized by the consolidation of conservative and monarchist forces, which sought to reverse many of
the reforms of the earlier period, particularly those related to labor rights and regional autonomy.
Main characteristics and timeframe of the ‘Frente Popular’ government
The Frente Popular, formed in 1936, was a left-wing coalition that united socialists, communists, and
anarchists. Its main goals were to protect the gains of the republic and expand social reforms. It lasted from
February 1936 until the outbreak of the Civil War in July 1936.
Causes and immediate consequences of the military uprising of July 1936.
The military uprising was triggered by dissatisfaction with the government’s policies and the fear of growing leftwing influence. The rebellion quickly spread across the country, leading to the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War,
with the rebel side gaining control of large areas of Spain.
Explain what the Non-Intervention Committee is, as well as the fundamental characteristics of the
Rebel Side at the beginning of the Civil War (territories, internal and external support…).
The Non-Intervention Committee was an international organization formed to prevent foreign powers from
interfering in the Spanish Civil War. The Rebel Side, led by General Francisco Franco, controlled large areas of
Spain, including the northern and southern parts, and received significant support from Nazi Germany and
Fascist Italy.
Explain what the Non-Intervention Committee is, as well as the fundamental characteristics of the
Republican Side at the beginning of the Civil War (territories, internal and external support…).
The Republican Side, made up of left-wing groups, controlled the central and eastern parts of Spain. It received
support from the Soviet Union and international brigades, but the Non-Intervention Committee imposed
restrictions on foreign involvement, limiting the Republicans’ ability to gain substantial outside assistance.
Explain the first stage of the Civil War, from July 1936 to March 1937.
The first stage of the war was marked by fierce fighting, with the rebel side initially making significant territorial
gains. However, the Republicans managed to hold key areas and put up a strong resistance. This phase was
characterized by military stalemate and efforts to build alliances.
Explain why the rebel side abandoned its initial strategy and what are the characteristics of this
second stage of the Civil War?
The rebel side shifted its strategy to focus on consolidating control over key territories and launching coordinated
offensives. The second stage of the war saw greater military organization and the continued involvement of
foreign powers, particularly Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy.
Name the 3 initial phases of the Civil War and describe the third stage, which took place from
November 1937 to November 1938.
The third stage saw the Republican forces increasingly fragmented and facing supply shortages. Despite some
successes, the Republicans were unable to reclaim lost territory, and the rebel side gained a decisive advantage.
Name the 4 phases of the Civil War and explain the last stage.
The final stage of the war involved the gradual collapse of Republican defenses, with Franco’s forces advancing
on key areas. The Republic’s disintegration culminated in the fall of Madrid in 1939, marking the end of the war
and the establishment of Franco’s dictatorship.
What major political changes took place in the Republican government at the beginning of the Civil
War?
Early in the war, the Republican government underwent significant changes, including the formation of new
coalitions and the appointment of new leaders. There were efforts to unify the left-wing factions, but divisions
between anarchists, communists, and socialists continued to create internal conflict.
What are the main characteristics of Largo Caballero’s government during the Civil War? Why did he
leave the presidency?
Largo Caballero’s government, known for its left-wing stance, focused on maintaining the republic and supporting
the working class. However, his government faced significant challenges from both internal divisions and external
threats. He resigned in 1937 after being unable to overcome these difficulties.
Explain the main characteristics of Negrín’s government in its defence of the Second Republic during
the Civil War.
Juan Negrín’s government was focused on maintaining the republic’s survival by seeking foreign aid, particularly
from the Soviet Union. His leadership was characterized by efforts to centralize power and militarize the
economy. Despite his efforts, the war continued to go against the Republic.
Political developments in rebel Spain during the Civil War
During the war, the rebel side consolidated political power under Franco’s leadership. The Nationalist
government became more authoritarian, with Franco at the center of power. The regime garnered support from
conservative groups, the Catholic Church, and foreign fascist powers.
Demographic, material, economic, social, cultural and political consequences of the Spanish Civil
War.
The war had devastating effects on Spain, with massive loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and a
fragmented society. Economically, the war drained resources, and politically, it led to the establishment of
Franco’s dictatorship, which lasted until his death in 1975. Socially, the war deepened divisions and left a legacy
of repression and trauma.
