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Manuel Matalla Gómez
Birth name Manuel Matallana Gómez
Born 25 December 1894
Madrid, Kingdom of Spain
Died 1952 (aged 57)
Madrid, Francoist Spain
Allegiance Second Spanish Republic Spanish Republic
Service/branch Army
Years of service 1936–1939
Rank General
Battles/wars Spanish Civil War

Manuel Matallana Gómez (born 25 December 1894 – died 1952) was a Spanish soldier and lawyer. He is known for his important role during the Spanish Civil War. In this conflict, he supported the government known as the Republican side. He served as a high-ranking officer and was involved in major battles.

Who Was Manuel Matallana Gómez?

Manuel Matallana Gómez was born in Madrid, Spain, in 1894. His father was also a military officer. Manuel followed in his father's footsteps and joined the Spanish army. Early in his career, he took part in the Rif War, a conflict in North Africa.

Manuel Matallana and the Spanish Civil War

When the Spanish Civil War began in 1936, Manuel Matallana Gómez supported the Republican government. This was the elected government of Spain at the time.

  • Siege of Madrid: In November 1936, he was part of General José Miaja's team during the Siege of Madrid. This was a very important battle to defend the capital city.
  • Battle of Brunete: After the Siege of Madrid, Matallana was promoted to colonel. In July 1937, he became the chief of staff for General Miaja during the Battle of Brunete. This was another major battle near Madrid.
  • Promotion to General: Later, he was promoted again, this time to the rank of general.

By February 1939, the war was nearing its end. General Matallana told the prime minister, Juan Negrín, that it was no longer possible to continue fighting. In March 1939, he joined a group led by Colonel Segismundo Casado. This group tried to take control from the Negrín government, an event known as Casado's coup.

After the War Ended

After the Spanish Civil War ended in 1939, the Nationalist side won. Manuel Matallana Gómez was arrested and put in jail by the Nationalists. He was sentenced to a long time in prison. However, the leader of the Nationalists, Francisco Franco, later reduced his sentence. By 1941, Matallana was a free man. He passed away in Madrid in 1952.

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