A major conflict serving as a precursor to World War II was the Spanish Civil War, fought from 1936 to 1939. This conflict polarized Europe, attracting international brigades and involvement from major powers, exemplifying the ideological battles between fascism and democracy. The war was marked by brutal tactics and severe repression, showcasing the struggles between the Nationalists, led by Francisco Franco, and the Republicans. The outcome, with Franco’s victory, established a fascist regime in Spain, which inspired other totalitarian movements across Europe. The unresolved tensions, political ideologies, and humanitarian crises from this conflict foreshadowed the larger global confrontations of World War II.