Spanish Civil War: Uprising, Development, and Key Players
The National Uprising (July 17-18, 1936)
The anti-war development and the 1932 uprising (Sanjurjada) saw the conviction of those involved, during the Black Biennial, followed by their release. The Portuguese left was in exile. Shortly after returning, General Franco emerged as the main leader of the rebel forces.
The National Uprising was called against the Second Republic. On July 17, 1936, riots began with Moroccan troops, where those opposing Franco were killed or imprisoned. Franco, stationed
Read MoreSocial and Political Opposition to Franco’s Regime
Oppositional Social Movements
In 1960, strikes by miners in Asturias, with important ramifications in the Basque Country and Barcelona (1962), led to the birth of a new unionism. Before the Civil War, only the UGT had some clandestine activity, while the CNT had virtually disappeared. CCOO was born in 1964, an independent and democratic union that promoted labor struggles (wages, working conditions…) and political aims (union freedom, civil rights…). It combined illegal actions, such as strikes,
Read MoreThe French Revolution: A Cycle of Violence and Transformation
The French Revolution tragically exemplifies how revolutions can consume their own initiators, a phenomenon often described as “eating its own children.” This symbolizes the revolution’s self-destructive nature, where the very individuals who sparked the movement were ultimately destroyed by it. The revolution turned on itself.
The Girondists vs. The Jacobins
In the final years of the French Revolution, deep divisions emerged between radicals and moderates. While formal political parties were yet
Read MoreModern Architecture: Mies van der Rohe, Le Corbusier & the International Style
20th Century Modern Architecture: Key Figures
Mies van der Rohe
Mies van der Rohe is considered a founder of the modern movement, along with Gropius, Wright, and Le Corbusier. Mies exerted enormous influence on architecture, learning about building in stone from his father. He moved to Berlin and worked for several architects, including the expressionist November. His early projects included glass skyscrapers. After initially using concrete, he featured it in an office building and also designed brick
Read MorePhilip II: Reign, Iberian Union, and Conquests
Philip II: A Powerful Reign
Philip II, son of Charles I, reigned over the Hispanic possessions from 1556 to 1598.
He aimed to maintain Spain’s hegemony in Europe and ensure the triumph of Catholicism. He pursued a foreign policy that continued his father’s legacy, including the war with France. Spain won the Battle of San Quintin, leading to the Peace of Cateau-Cambrésis.
His personal political focus highlighted the Mediterranean region. He suppressed the rebellion of the Moriscos in Granada from
Read MoreCarlism: Origins, Wars, and Consequences in Spain
Carlism: Core Principles
Carlism focuses on three sacred principles: God, Country, and King.
God: Carlists advocate for the union of church and state, often expressed as “altar and throne.”
Patria: They champion traditional Spain, criticizing liberals as foreign influences.
King: They believe in a monarchy as a sacred institution of divine origin, with powers not bound by any constitution.
Carlism and Regional Councils
Carlism strongly supports regional councils, particularly in the Basque Country, Navarra,
Read More