Question

Aggressive nationalism of Italy and Germany was responsible for many acts of violence which eventually led to the Second World War. In this context explain:

The Spanish Civil War of 1936.

Answer 1

1. The Spanish Civil War of 1936 is a significant example of how the aggressive nationalism of Italy and Germany contributed to international violence and paved the way for the Second World War.
2. In 1936, a civil war broke out in Spain between the Republican government, which was supported by leftist groups including communists and socialists, and the Nationalists, led by General Francisco Franco, who aimed to establish a fascist dictatorship.
3. Both Hitler’s Germany and Mussolini’s Italy directly supported Franco militarily. Germany sent its Condor Legion, which included aircraft and troops, to support Franco. 
4. The bombing of the town of Guernica by the German air force became a horrifying symbol of modern warfare. Italy also sent around 70,000 troops, as well as tanks and aircraft.
5. Their involvement turned Spain into a testing ground for new weapons and tactics, especially for Germany. The war provided both Hitler and Mussolini an opportunity to spread fascist ideology and gain a future ally in Franco.
6. It also strengthened their alliance and gave them confidence that Britain and France would not interfere in their future aggressions. Meanwhile, the League of Nations remained passive, again proving its weakness.
7. Thus, the Spanish Civil War was not just a national conflict but became a proxy war for emerging fascist powers. It demonstrated the growing influence of militarism and aggressive nationalism.