In Gijón, amidst the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War, revolutionary leaders from leftist factions convened to proclaim the Sovereign Council of Asturias and León. This declaration was a response to the rapid changes and escalating violence in Spain as nationalists under Francisco Franco sought control over the entire nation. The council was intended to serve as a legitimate governing body that could oversee the defense, political, and social welfare of Asturias and León, a region already heavily impacted by the war. The proclamation underscored the desire for regional autonomy and solidarity among socialist, communist, and anarchist factions in the area, highlighting a diverse political landscape amidst the broader conflict.

The establishment of the Sovereign Council marked a pivotal moment within the Asturian resistance against nationalist forces. Aimed at unifying the region's various left-leaning political groups, the council sought not only military objectives but also to address pressing social issues exacerbated by the war. It represented a hopeful assertion of local governance amidst the chaos, seeking to establish order and provide essential services to the population. Leaders of the council emphasized the importance of class struggle in their rhetoric, as they rallied support against Franco's advancing troops and the subsequent societal impacts of war, including poverty and displacement.

The council was a brief yet significant experiment in self-rule during a time of dire conflict. It showcased how local structures of power could emerge even in the face of national disintegration. However, the ongoing military pressures ultimately overshadowed its efforts, as the nationalist forces would later gain control over the region. The council's legacy was one of resilience and the assertion of regional identity in a challenging era.