HORRIFYING FOOTAGE from the late 1930s showing how Spain was used as a testing ground for the weapons of the Axis powers during the Spanish Civil War has resurfaced today, on the anniversary of Generalísimo Francisco Franco declaring himself the leader of Spain.

The video, taken over the course of the brutal conflict which left nearly one-million dead, shows innocent civilians running for cover as German and Italian planes drop hundreds of bombs on those cities in Spain that remained loyal to the government during Franco's fascist uprising.

The footage also shows the complete devastation that followed the bombings, with Spanish cities effectively leveled in some cases. Clips show displaced people wandering the streets aimlessly, while other show mothers weeping as they carry their children through the wreckage.

The clip has re-emerged today on the anniversary of General Franco declaring himself the 38th leader of Spain following one of the bloodiest civil wars in modern history.

The war, which lasted for the better part of three years, was originally intended as a quick coup d’etat by Franco and his allies. The General had become disillusioned with the way Spain was being run during his time in the military thought that with his allies he could seize control of most of the major Spanish cities in one swift movement. However, this proved to be far from the case.

Franco’s initial rebellion only succeeded in capturing the cities of Sevilla and Cadiz, both in the South, with the Republican government remaining in control in the major northern cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. So the future dictator turned to fellow fascists Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini for aid.

They responded in force, with Germany answering the call within days of the initial uprising. Hitler’s regime provided both air and armored units to Franco and his allies, with approximately 600 planes and 200 tanks, as well as around 16,000 men over the course of the war. Italy also played a major part in the war, providing its navy, 50,000 men and a substantial number of planes, machine guns, rifles and tanks.

For the full story visit www.mediadrumworld.com.

To license this video email plustv@mediadrumworld.com