Aftermath of the Spanish Civil War: Consequences and Beneficiaries
The Consequences of the Spanish Civil War
The Spanish Civil War had a tragic impact on Spain, resulting in deaths, disappearances, widespread exile, repression, and significant economic losses. However, some groups benefited from the new political and social landscape.
Deaths and Disappearances
The war resulted in approximately 1 million population losses, with about 300,000 deaths on the battlefields. Additionally, around 200,000 people were shot and killed by both sides. The Franco regime continued executions for about a decade after the war. During the early years of the Franco regime, approximately 300,000 prisoners were beaten, according to official figures, with many dying from poor detention conditions. Factoring in losses from disease and malnutrition resulting from the war, the total loss easily exceeds 1 million people. Furthermore, population growth was significantly affected by a declining birth rate.
Exiles
The exile of many Spaniards was significant, not only in terms of numbers but also in terms of the quality of those who left. Many people fled Spain temporarily or permanently, largely due to fear of repression under Franco. The primary destinations for exiles were France and Mexico, with smaller numbers going to North Africa, the Soviet Union, and other Latin American countries. The journey into exile was often tragic, and for those who migrated to Africa or Europe, the outbreak of World War II and the Nazi advance further complicated their situation, with numerous Spaniards ending up in German concentration camps such as Mauthausen. The phenomenon of exile affected a significant portion of the Spanish population, particularly those with political and social concerns. The exile was devastating for Spanish cultural life, as many writers, artists, professors, scientists, and professionals left the country. In their new homes, especially in America and France, they continued their careers and founded numerous institutions that were highly relevant to Spanish cultural life.
Repression
Repression included executions, imprisonment in Franco’s concentration camps, forced labor in monumental projects (such as the Valley of the Fallen), and those who remained hidden, known as “moles.” There were also those who suffered internal exile due to their beliefs or rejection by their neighbors after being released from jail or a concentration camp. Another group consisted of those who were purged, meaning they were expelled from the administration and certain professions, especially basic education teachers, who were blamed for the rise of anti-Spanish sentiment. Some anti-Franco individuals, to avoid repression, became guerrillas who took refuge in the mountains, occasionally coming down to the villages to see their families and obtain provisions.
Economic Losses
The economic losses were substantial. The decline in the working population was compounded by the shipment of over 500 tonnes of gold from the Bank of Spain to the Soviet Union, the costs of the war, and the destruction of public and private buildings, as well as road and rail networks. There were also declines in production rates across all economic sectors. Franco’s policies further aggravated the situation, delaying Spain’s recovery compared to other European states affected by World War II. The pre-civil war levels of production and welfare would not be achieved until two decades after its completion.
Beneficiary Groups
Some groups benefited from the new situation, including landowners, the army, and the Church, which became a dominant force in Franco’s society. The authority of companies was also restored; many were created in 1939 in the regions previously occupied by the Republican army. Some businesses were reopened, while others arose from astute investments by the bourgeoisie in colonizing the newly conquered areas. These groups were joined by an urban and rural petty bourgeoisie, who particularly benefited in areas where the uprising succeeded. Among the favored individuals was the new figure of the veteran, who, as a reward for their cooperation in the war, were given positions in government and business concessions.