The Spanish Civil War was triggered by a complex interplay of political, social, and economic tensions following the establishment of the Second Spanish Republic in 1931. The rise of radical political movements, including anarchism, socialism, and fascism, created a deeply polarized society. The immediate catalyst was a military coup led by General Francisco Franco in July 1936, which aimed to overthrow the republican government. This resulted in a bloody conflict between the Republicans, who were supported by international brigades, and Franco's Nationalists, leading to widespread atrocities and the eventual establishment of a fascist dictatorship in Spain, with long-lasting implications for Spanish society and politics.