Spanish Republic and the Civil War, 1931-1939

Rating:
Summary: By far the best history of the Spanish Civil War
Review: I am also amazed at how little reviewed (and read?-I hope not!) this book has been. As a Spaniard with close knowledge of the events, I can say Jackson has done the best job to date of tracing the political and social developments that led to the conflict, and of describing the uprising itself and the conduct of the military and propaganda operations. Infinitely better than Hugh Thomas' and every other account. By the way, if you'd rather read a first-hand narrative, Orwell's "Homage to Catalonia" is much better than Hemingway's.

Rating:
Summary: Best single-volume study of Republic and Civil War
Review: I am astounded that no one has yet reviewed this book. Originally published in 1965, it remains the classic center-left interpretation of the Republic and Civil War. It is balanced, well researched and comprehensive. For those looking for a more conservative treatment of this period, see Stanley Payne's "Spain's First Democracy."