Spain's Civil War began in 1936. It was a complex conflict between the Republicans, who were loyal to the democratically elected Spanish Republic, and the Nationalists, led by General Francisco Franco. The war was fueled by deep political, social, and economic divisions in Spanish society, including class struggles, regional autonomy, and political ideologies such as communism and fascism. The conflict resulted in a devastating loss of life and property, ultimately leading to Franco's authoritarian regime that lasted until his death in 1975, profoundly shaping Spain's modern history.