This somewhat peaceful scene is misleading, belying the fact that
the
Spanish Civil War (1936-39) was probably one of the most bestial,
brutal,
cruel conflicts of the twentieth century. Perhaps this is
not the time
or place to embark on the history of such a complex subject, but let
it suffice to say that in 1936, Spain was in a mess!
Having rid itself of
The
Monarchy some years earlier, the Republican Government was not popular
with
more conservative and traditional Spanish minds (who were to be known
as
The Nationalists"...). At the same time it was slowly falling into
becoming
prey for more radical leadership from the left.
As
passions grew and
fermented, it was only a matter of time before the country subsided
into
civil war. This finally happened in 1936.
Curiously, the military and navy were reasonably well split
between the
two factions. The Republic also received aid from the Soviet Union (in
return for gold ... !) and the Nationalists received assistance from
both Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. How's that
for a potted history of the
Spanish Civil War in less than 150 words!
Among the Naval inventory of the Republic was this submarine "C3",
seen here gently pulling away from the quayside of, perhaps, Cartagena. She
is being bid farewell by a Republican Assault Guard (who seems more
interested in lighting a cigarette... ) and a young militia woman (in a
delightful
example of "what not to wear" ... ) who spots us and gives an
enthusiastic Marxist salute.
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