Battle of Gandesa (1938) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Gandesa
Part of the Spanish Civil War
Date 1-3 April 1938 Location Gandesa, Catalonia, Spain Result Nationalist victory
Belligerents
Spanish Republic International Brigades	Nationalist Spain Corpo Truppe Volontarie Aviazione Legionaria Condor Legion
Strength
XV International Brigade
Casualties and losses
140 prisoners

The Battle of Gandesa was an important fight during the Spanish Civil War. It happened in April 1938. This battle showed how bravely some soldiers fought, even when things looked tough.

Why the Battle of Gandesa Happened

After a previous battle, the Nationalist army kept moving forward. They were heading towards an area called Catalonia in Spain. They had strong support from air forces like the Condor Legion from Germany and the Aviazione Legionaria from Italy.

By the end of February 1938, the Nationalist troops were close to the town of Gandesa. The Republican soldiers, especially the XV International Brigade, had been falling back. Their defense lines were breaking apart.

The XV International Brigade decided to make a stand at Gandesa. They wanted to slow down the Nationalist army. This army had been advancing very quickly since the start of their attack.

Who Fought at Gandesa

The town of Gandesa was defended by the brave soldiers of the XV International Brigade. These brigades were made up of volunteers from many different countries.

The Nationalist forces attacked with troops from Italy, known as the CTV. They also had other army groups helping them.

The Battle of Gandesa: What Happened

The fighting was very intense. Even though the British and American soldiers in the XV International Brigade fought with great courage, Gandesa eventually fell. This happened on April 3, 1938.

About 140 British and American members of the International Brigades were captured. However, the strong resistance put up by the XV Brigade was very important. It gave the Republican troops time to get organized again. It also allowed them to move some of their important supplies safely across the Ebro River.

See also

In Spanish: Batalla de Gandesa (1938) para niños