The Iberian Peninsula in the Middle Ages: From Hominization to Al-Andalus
1. The Iberian Peninsula in Pre-Roman Times
1.1 The Hominization Process in the Iberian Peninsula
Human evolution began in Africa about five million years ago. The first hominids to leave Africa and spread through Asia and the Near East were Homo ergaster, who evolved into Homo erectus. The evolutionary process in Europe, including the Iberian Peninsula, began around one million years ago. Key stages include:
- Homo antecessor (about 800,000 years ago): Fossils found in the Sierra de Atapuerca (Burgos)
Francoist Spain: Political, Social, and Economic Overview
Creation of the Francoist State
The Francoist state, a political and social regime, emerged during the Spanish Civil War. This regime relied on a single-party political ideology, the Falange Española Tradicionalista y de las JONS (FET y de las JONS), founded by the rebels. The sole command rested with Francisco Franco, who concentrated power and legislative initiative until his death.
A series of laws were promulgated, including the Principles of the National Movement Act. The regime remained faithful
Read MoreThe Spanish Civil War: Conspiracy, Revolt, and Stages
The Spanish Civil War
Conspiracy and Military Revolt
The military conspiracy aimed to achieve a swift victory for the Popular Front following the February 1936 elections. Prior attempts, such as the Sanjurjada and movements led by Goded, Fanjul, and Franco, had already occurred. Civilian factions, including monarchists, Alfonsinos, Carlists, and fascists, provided auxiliary support to the conspiracy.
However, the coup of July 1936 was orchestrated solely by disgruntled military personnel. General
Read MoreSpanish Civil War: Uprising, Stages, and Political Evolution
1. The Military Uprising and Internationalization
Conservative opposition actions led to a coup starting on July 17, 1936. The Popular Front served as their justification.
On July 17, 1936, Colonel Yagüe, along with Carlist requetés, rebelled against the Republic. Franco joined the peninsular army from Africa.
Quiroja Casares was replaced by José Giral, who armed the militias and the Popular Front. Part of the army remained loyal to the government and attempted to suppress the uprising.
While the
Read MoreThe Spanish Civil War: A Historical Overview
1. The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939)
2. Development Phases
2.1 The Narrow Passage (July 1936–Spring 1937)
In this initial phase, the insurgents seized control of roughly half of Spain. The Army of Africa, bolstered by German and Italian support, crossed the Strait of Gibraltar between August and October 1936, occupying much of Andalusia and Extremadura. After securing Badajoz, they linked up with the northern army. The capture of San Sebastian and Irun on the French-Spanish border in September 1936
Read MoreThe Second Spanish Republic: From Reform to Revolution
Stages of the Second Spanish Republic
The Reformist Biennium (1931-1933)
The Provisional Government (April 14 – June 28, 1931)
Following the proclamation of the Republic, a provisional government led by Niceto Alcalá-Zamora was formed. This period saw significant social unrest, including the burning of convents in Madrid on May 11 and 12. The government focused on four key areas:
- Labor Reform: An 8-hour workday was established, and priority was given to agricultural workers. Landowners were obligated