Spanish Civil War 1936: Zaragoza Repression and Nationwide Coup

On 17 July 1936 a military uprising began in Melilla, driven by authoritarian generals fearful of a social revolution after the Popular Front's February election win. The revolt quickly spread to the Spanish mainland, igniting the Civil War. Rebel forces received material support from Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, paving the way for the eventual fascist state under General Francisco Franco.

In Zaragoza the coup triggered a brutal period of repression. Civil governor Ángel Vera, who refused to arm left‑wing groups, was arrested and later executed. Over the summer and autumn of 1936 roughly 3,600 people were shot in the city—victims were found in streets, hospitals, and public squares. Notable officers such as General Núñez de Prado were also executed. Historians refer to this wave of killings as the "terror caliente" that marked the early months of the war.