Historical Events tagged with "fascism"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Italy Withdraws from the League of Nations

December 11th, 1937 87 years ago

Italy's departure from the League of Nations marked a significant moment in international diplomacy, illustrating the growing tensions in Europe. After its invasion of Ethiopia, which violated League principles, Italy faced sanctions. In response, Italy announced its exit from the League, asserting its desire to pursue its imperial ambitions without external interference. This decision was influenced by the leadership of Benito Mussolini, whose nationalist policies clashed with the League’s collective security framework.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Guernica Bombing by Nazi Germany and Italy

April 26th, 1937 87 years ago

The town of Guernica, Spain, was subjected to devastating aerial bombardment by the German Condor Legion and the Italian Aviazione Legionaria during the Spanish Civil War. This coordinated attack occurred in support of Francisco Franco’s Nationalist forces against the Republic. Over several hours, the attack led to significant destruction of the town's infrastructure and a high civilian death toll. The bombing has since been immortalized in Pablo Picasso's famous mural, which depicts the horrors of war and has become a symbol of anti-war sentiment. The raid aimed to demoralize the Republican faction, demonstrating the potency of aerial warfare in modern conflicts.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Spanish Civil War: Battle of Guadalajara Commences

March 8th, 1937 88 years ago

The Battle of Guadalajara was a significant military engagement during the Spanish Civil War. It commenced with the Italian Fascist troops attacking Republican forces near the town of Guadalajara. The Republican forces, bolstered by Soviet support, successfully countered the offensive, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict. Notably, the battle showcased the effectiveness of the Republic's defensive strategies and contributed to weakening the Fascist forces in Spain.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

José Antonio Primo de Rivera Executed by Republicans

November 20th, 1936 88 years ago

José Antonio Primo de Rivera, founder of the Falange, was executed by a Republican execution squad during the Spanish Civil War. Captured in 1936, this leader of the Falange espoused fascist views and sought to unify Spain against communism and liberal democracy. His death was part of the regime's effort to eliminate political opposition.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Francisco Franco Leads Nationalist Spain

October 1st, 1936 88 years ago

On October 1, 1936, Francisco Franco was appointed head of the Nationalist government during the Spanish Civil War. This marked a pivotal point in the conflict, as Franco emerged as the primary leader of the Nationalist faction, which was composed of various conservative, monarchist, and fascist groups opposing the Republican government. With Franco's leadership, the Nationalists consolidated power and sought to establish a militaristic regime in Spain that aimed to suppress opposition and maintain traditional values. This designation not only cemented Franco's role as a key figure in the war but set the stage for the subsequent military campaign that would reshape Spain’s political landscape.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Raoul Villain assassinated by Spanish Republicans

September 14th, 1936 88 years ago

Raoul Villain, known for assassinating French Socialist Jean Jaurès, met his end in Ibiza at the hands of Spanish Republicans. His death came as tensions escalated during the Spanish Civil War, reflecting the turmoil of the period. Villain had been in hiding, and his actions had made him a notable figure in the political climate of the time. The Republicans targeted him as part of their broader opposition to fascism and the Franco regime, underscoring the violent conflicts tearing through Europe.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Establishment of the 4th of August Regime

August 4th, 1936 88 years ago

Ioannis Metaxas, the Prime Minister of Greece, took decisive action by suspending Parliament and abrogating the constitution. This marked the beginning of a new authoritarian regime known as the 4th of August Regime. Metaxas justified his actions as a response to the political chaos and social unrest in Greece at the time. Under this regime, he aimed to implement a series of nationalistic policies and suppress political dissent, thereby consolidating his power in the government.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Valencia's Popular Executive Committee Takes Power

July 22nd, 1936 88 years ago

Following the onset of the Spanish Civil War, the Popular Executive Committee in Valencia seized control amid a backdrop of political upheaval and factionalism. Spurred by a workers' uprising and the collapse of the authority of the Second Spanish Republic, the committee sought to consolidate power as revolutionary sentiments spread. This move reflected the growing influence of anarchist and socialist factions in response to rising fascism in Spain, marking a pivotal shift in the region's governance.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Haile Selassie's Plea for Assistance

June 30th, 1936 88 years ago

Emperor Haile Selassie of Abyssinia appealed to the League of Nations, seeking help against Italy's aggressive invasion of his nation. He delivered an impassioned speech at the League's headquarters in Geneva, urging member states to uphold collective security and defend his country's sovereignty. This appeal highlighted not only the plight of Abyssinia under fascist aggression but also the inadequacies in the League's response to member states facing military invasions.

Continue Reading