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Carlos Asensio Cabanillas
Carlos Asensio Cabanillas.jpg
Birth name Carlos Asensio Cabanillas
Born (1896-11-14)14 November 1896
Madrid, Kingdom of Spain
Died 28 April 1969(1969-04-28) (aged 72)
Madrid, Francoist Spain
Allegiance Spain Kingdom of Spain
 Spanish Republic
 Nationalist Spain
Service/branch  Spanish Army
Rank General
Battles/wars Rif War
Spanish Civil War

Carlos Asensio Cabanillas (born November 14, 1896, in Madrid – died April 28, 1969, in Madrid) was a Spanish soldier and statesman. He is known for fighting with the Nationalist side during the Spanish Civil War. He started as a Colonel and rose to become a General in Franco's Army of Africa.

Early Military Career

Carlos Asensio Cabanillas began his military career in the Spanish Army. He gained experience in conflicts like the Rif War in North Africa. This early service prepared him for future leadership roles.

Role in the Spanish Civil War

When the Spanish Civil War began in July 1936, Asensio Cabanillas played a key role. He and Colonel Sáenz de Buruaga quickly took control of Tétouan for the Nationalist rebels. This was an important early victory.

Key Battles and Advances

In the first month of the war, Asensio Cabanillas led his troops on a very fast march. They moved from Seville towards Madrid. His column fought alongside Juan Yagüe's forces. They successfully captured several cities, including Badajoz, Toledo, and Talavera.

His troops also advanced into the University City during the Siege of Madrid. This was the furthest the Nationalist forces reached into the city until the war ended. Later, at the Jarama, his column led the attack across the river. However, they were eventually stopped by the International Brigades, a group of foreign volunteers.

After the War: New Responsibilities

After the Spanish Civil War ended, Francisco Franco promoted Asensio Cabanillas to Lieutenant General. He then held several important positions in the government and military.

From 1939 to 1941, he was the High Commissioner of the Spanish protectorate in Morocco. This meant he was in charge of the Spanish territory in Morocco. He then served as the Chief of Staff of the Army from 1941 to 1942. This role made him the main military advisor for the army.

From 1942 to 1945, he was the Minister of the Army. This made him responsible for all army matters. After that, he became the Captain General of the Balearic Islands from 1945 to 1948. His final major role was as the Chief of the Defence High Command from 1955 to 1958. This meant he was the chief of staff for all of the Spanish Armed Forces.

Later Life

Carlos Asensio Cabanillas passed away in 1969 in Madrid.

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