With all the various worthy and necessary commemorations about the centenary of the First World War, another anniversary has been sadly overlooked. The Spanish Civil War started in 1936, eighty years ago. It is hardly ever mentioned these days, and may well be in danger of being forgotten, and unknown to younger generations. Yet it could be seen as the first truly modern war, with civilians being bombed, towns and cities destroyed, and other countries sending support for both sides. It was a proving ground for new tactics, new aircraft, and the same old cruelties. A practice session for later wars, that would lead directly into the Second World War soon after its end.

The elected government of Republican Spain was attacked by some troops from its own army, including those led by Francisco Franco, in the rebellion of July 1936. Supported by Fascists, Right-Wing Militias, and the Catholic Church…