General Military Academy facts for kids

Quick facts for kids General Military Academy
Coat of Arms of the General Military Academy
Active	1882–1931, 1940–present
Country	Spain
Allegiance	Spain
Branch	Spanish Army
Type	Training
Role	Basic training of future officials of the Army and of the Civil Guard
Website	General Military Academy
Commanders
Director	Jerónimo de Gregorio y Monmeneu

The General Military Academy (in Spanish: Academia General Militar) is a special school in Spain. It trains young people to become officers in the Spanish Army and the Civil Guard. It is located in the city of Zaragoza.

History of the Academy

First Beginnings (1882-1893)

The General Military Academy first opened on February 20, 1882. This happened during the time of King Alfonso XII. The very first school was in Alcázar de Toledo. General Méndez, known as "The Great," was its first leader.

However, the Academy closed down in 1893. After that, different parts of the army had their own separate training schools.

Reopening and Changes (1927-1931)

The Academy was opened again in 1927. This was during the rule of King Alfonso XIII. At this time, a leader named Miguel Primo de Rivera was in charge of the government. He thought it was important for all parts of the army to train together.

Primo de Rivera admired Francisco Franco, a well-known soldier. So, on January 4, 1928, Franco was made the Director of the Academy. The goal was to train officers who were brave and dedicated.

In June 1931, the Second Republic government took over. They decided to close the Academy. The new government, led by Manuel Azaña, felt the school was too expensive. They also didn't fully trust the way it was teaching officers. Many army officers were very sad about this closure. Franco, even though he was upset, followed the orders and closed the Academy.

Modern Era (1940-Present)

After the Spanish Civil War ended, the General Military Academy was opened for a third time. This happened on September 27, 1940. The old buildings from the second era were used again.

In 1942, 170 students began their training. Francisco Hidalgo de Cisneros y Manso de Zúñiga became the new Director. Two very famous students who attended this Academy are Juan Carlos I of Spain, who became King of Spain, and his son, Felipe VI of Spain, the current King.

What Students Learn Today

The General Military Academy is a large school where students live and study. It offers a five-year program. This program helps young men and women become officers in the Spanish Army and the Civil Guard. The school is approved by the Ministry of Education. It works closely with the Army's main headquarters.

School Subjects

Students at the Academy study many different subjects. These include arts and sciences. The specific courses depend on what kind of officer a student wants to become. Students who want to join the Civil Guard also get extra training in law enforcement.

All students who complete the program earn a Bachelor of Science degree. They get help from the Central Defense University and the University of Zaragoza.

Military Training

Learning to be a leader and a soldier is a big part of the program. New students, called "New Cadets," start their training in September. This day is called "Reception Day." They learn military skills and discipline.

In January of the next year, they become full cadets. They promise to serve their country and receive special ceremonial daggers. During their years at the Academy, cadets also get special training. This includes learning about combat and law enforcement. After graduation, they become lieutenants in the Army or Civil Guard.

See also

In Spanish: Academia General Militar (Zaragoza) para niños