The Spanish Civil War started on July 17, 1936, when a group of military officers led by General Francisco Franco launched a coup against the democratically elected Republican government. The conflict lasted until April 1, 1939, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths and the establishment of Franco's dictatorship.
The war began with uprisings in Spanish Morocco and quickly spread to mainland Spain. Key battles included the Siege of Madrid and the Battle of the Ebro. International involvement included support from Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy for the Nationalists, while the Soviet Union and International Brigades aided the Republicans.
The war ended with Franco's victory, leading to a 36-year dictatorship. The conflict is remembered for its brutality, including the bombing of Guernica, which inspired Pablo Picasso's famous painting. Today, Spain continues to grapple with the legacy of the war and Franco's regime.
