Answer :
Final answer:
Hitler and Mussolini provided significant military support to Franco's Nationalists in the Spanish Civil War, including troops and the Luftwaffe's bombing of Guernica, while Stalin supported the Republican side with advisors and assistance. Franco's eventual victory established a fascist regime in Spain. The support from Germany and Italy for Franco violated the international non-intervention agreement, setting the stage for World War II alliances.
Explanation:
Involvement of Hitler, Stalin, and Mussolini in the Spanish Civil War
The Spanish Civil War was a critical event in European history where several prominent dictators of that era were involved. Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini provided substantial support to the Nationalists led by Francisco Franco, whereas Joseph Stalin supported the Republican side. The German and Italian dictators sent weapons, troops, and air support, including the notorious German Luftwaffe, which was responsible for the brutal bombing of Guernica. Conversely, Stalin's support was marked by sending Soviet advisors and aid to the Republicans, as part of his anti-fascist Popular Front coalitions.
This conflict allowed Germany and Italy to test their military capabilities before World War II, and the support for Franco played a significant role in his eventual triumph. Franco's victory led to the establishment of a fascist regime in Spain, which lasted until his death in 1975. The civil war also foreshadowed the alliances that would form during the Second World War, with the ultimate creation of the Axis Powers by Germany, Italy, and Japan.
The non-intervention agreement by the major European democracies was largely ignored by the Axis powers, marking the decline of international cooperation and a prelude to the more extensive conflicts that would soon engulf Europe and the world.
