On this day Francisco Franco declared victory and the end of the Civil War in Spain. It is interesting that the United States recognized Franco’s government on that same day, leaving the Soviet Union as the only major power that did not immediately recognize it. The war in Spain lasted for 2 years, 8 months, 2 weeks, and one day. It is estimated that between 500,000 and 1,000,000 people were killed in that war. After the victory, Franco ruled the country the next 36 years.
Francisco Franco used the title “Caudillo” (supreme leader), and he was simultaneously the head of state and head of government in Spain. In addition, he was also “Generalísimo” in the Spanish army. On this day he announced on the radio the end of the war and the final victory of nationalists. He also published a document dated April 1 in which he stated:
“En el dia de hoy, cautivo y desarmado el Ejército Rojo, han alcanzado las tropas nacionales sus ultimos objetivos militares. La guerra ha terminado.” (On this day with the Red Army captive and disarmed, the national troops have achieved their final military objectives. The war is over.)
