In the autumn of 1940, the European landscape was reshaped by the ongoing battles of World War II, which had engulfed much of the continent in turmoil. Amid this environment, Adolf Hitler, the leader of Nazi Germany, sought to solidify alliances and gain the support of neutral nations. One such nation was Spain, ruled by Francisco Franco, whose government had emerged after the Spanish Civil War. On October 23, 1940, Hitler traveled to Hendaye, a small border town in France, to meet with Franco in hopes of persuading him to join the Axis powers against the Allies. The meeting occurred against the backdrop of Nazi successes in Europe and growing demands for Spain's involvement in the conflict, particularly in support of operations in Gibraltar and North Africa.

During their discussions, both leaders navigated a complex web of national interests. Franco came to the meeting prepared to negotiate, aware of the leverage Spain had amid the war's power dynamics. While Franco had ideologically aligned with fascist principles, he was apprehensive about committing Spanish resources and military efforts to the Axis cause, fearing potential repercussions on Spain’s sovereignty and stability. Franco articulated his reluctance to join the war, insisting instead on Spanish neutrality while seeking economic aid and territorial gains in Africa.

The atmosphere during the meeting was charged with tension, as Hitler pressed for commitments while Franco offered only vague assurances. Ultimately, the meeting concluded without a formal agreement, reflecting the complex calculations each leader faced, and significantly, Franco's resilience in preserving Spain's independent stance. Despite Nazi Germany's invasion successes, Spain under Franco remained officially neutral, although it provided some support to Axis forces without full military engagement.