Spanish Civil War in photos: What was it about, why was it important?

The Spanish Civil War was a conflict that lasted from 1936 to 1939 and was fought between the Republican government and Nationalist rebels led by General Francisco Franco. It was a result of the political and social tensions that existed in Spain during that time, including disputes over land and the role of the Catholic Church. The war began on July 17, 1936, when General Franco led a military coup against the elected government. The rebels were supported by various groups, including the conservative landowners and the Catholic Church, while the government was supported by a coalition of socialists, communists, and anarchists. - In this file photo taken on January 1, 1936, during the Spanish Civil War, Republicans fighting in a street of an unidentified village. The war was characterized by brutal fighting and atrocities committed by both sides. The Nationalists were notorious for their use of death squads, which targeted civilians and political opponents, while the Republicans were accused of similar acts, such as the bombing of the Basque town of Guernica. -In this file photo taken on July 19, 1936, soldiers loyal to the Republic shoot from a window in Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War. International involvement also played a significant role in the conflict. The Nationalists received support from Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, while the Republicans received aid from the Soviet Union. Many foreign volunteers also joined the fighting on both sides, including the famous International Brigades made up of volunteers from around the world. -In this file photo taken in July 1936, Republicans battle for the Alcazar in Toledo where rebels are sheltered. The Nationalists eventually emerged victorious and Franco established a dictatorship that lasted until his death in 1975. The aftermath of the war was characterized by political repression, including mass executions, censorship, and the persecution of political opponents. -In this file photo taken in August 1936, the Republican artillery deployed at the Somosierra pass to counter a Nationalist offensive is pictured in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain north of Madrid. The Spanish Civil War had far-reaching effects, not just in Spain but also internationally. It was a key moment in the lead-up to World War II and a testing ground for the ideologies and military tactics that would later be used in that conflict. Additionally, it inspired many artists, writers, and intellectuals, who used their work to protest against the war and its aftermath. -In this file photo taken in November 1936, Republicans fighters take up positions on a rooftop during the battle of Madrid. In recent years, there have been efforts to acknowledge and address the legacy of the Spanish Civil War and the dictatorship that followed. -In this file photo taken on March 15, 1937, General Francisco Franco watches the front during the Civil War at an unknown location. This has included the opening of archives and the exhumation of mass graves, as well as the removal of Francoist symbols and the recognition of victims of the conflict and the dictatorship. -In this file photo taken on January 30, 1939, General Yagüe (center, wearing glasses) marchs through Barcelona, four days after his troops had taken control of the city. In conclusion, the Spanish Civil War was a pivotal moment in Spanish history that had far-reaching consequences. -In this file photo taken in February 1939, Republican fighters arrive in France after fleeing Spain where nationalists troops of General Franco won the civil war. So, despite the passage of time, its legacy continues to shape the country and its people.