Letters

Franco Critic

Posted

To the Editor:

Two recent issues of Catholic New York contained letters praising the former dictator Franco of Spain.

Franco precipitated the Spanish civil war, which resulted in the overthrow of the Republican government. His repressive regime ruled Spain for four decades.

There were many factions and groups in that war; there was terrible death and suffering on both sides. The Communist Party supported the Republic. Catholics and priests were killed. Franco and his Falange Party used the banner of religion to show that they were on the side of God. Suppression of freedom under the guise of religion is a common theme in Spanish history.

What is the evidence that Franco prevented Spain from becoming a communist country? The government was not communist before the war and was comprised of various groups and beliefs. Indeed, there was an outcry in the United States that we should aid the Republican forces. A Republican victory against the Fascists could quite possibly have prevented World War II. 

Obviously the killing of priests was horrible. But what of the horror brought on by Hitler and Mussolini? Have the letter-writers referred to above ever heard of Guernica? Franco’s ally Adolf Hitler tested his warplanes over that town. 

I truly do not believe Franco deserves to be praised based on his overthrow of the Republic.

Also, it is a mistake to believe Franco intended Spain to become a democracy after his death. He intended for Juan Carlos to continue the dictatorship. The future king opposed his wishes and supported a democratic form of government. 

Philip Russak

High Falls