The Battle of Jarama

The Battle of Jarama, fought in February 1937 during the Spanish Civil War, was a fierce conflict between Republican forces, aiming to defend Madrid, and the advancing Nationalist troops. Strategic hills near Madrid's Jarama River became the battleground as Republicans tried to stop the Nationalists from breaking through. Despite repeated attacks, the Nationalists failed to gain a decisive advantage. The battle resulted in heavy casualties on both sides but ultimately secured the Republican lines around Madrid. It was a significant, grueling engagement that demonstrated the intense, drawn-out nature of the conflict and the importance of control over key terrain.