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Spanish Civil War ends, Francisco Franco becomes dictator

Definition

The Spanish Civil War was a military revolt against the Republican government of Spain, supported by conservative elements within the country. When the war ended in 1939, General Francisco Franco took control as dictator, ruling until his death in 1975.

Analogy

Think about a game of chess where two players fight for control over the board. After a long struggle, one player wins and takes control over all pieces on the board. Similarly, after years of civil war, Franco emerged victorious and took absolute control over Spain.

Related terms

Fascism: A political ideology that includes dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition and strong regimentation of society and economy which came to prominence in early 20th-century Europe.

Guernica Bombing: An aerial bombing attack on the Basque town of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War by German and Italian airforces supporting Franco's Nationalist forces.

Falange: A fascist-inspired political party founded in Spain in 1933 that supported Francisco Franco during the Spanish Civil War.