International Brigades

The International Brigades were volunteer military units formed during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), comprising individuals from around the world who supported the Republican side against Fascist forces. Motivated by anti-fascist ideals, these diverse volunteers—many young and politically committed—took up arms to defend Spain’s democratic government from General Franco’s nationalist revolution. Although not part of the official Spanish army, the brigades operated as international units, symbolizing global solidarity against fascism. Their participation highlighted internationalist support for democracy and resistance to authoritarianism during this turbulent period.