The Struggle against Deportations

Abstract

España Libre had an unprecedented catalytic role in fostering solidarity for victims of Spanish fascism. After their victory, the Francoist forces began systematically rounding up those who had sided with the Second Spanish Republic. Although borders were sealed, Spaniards continued to clandestinely flee from the brutal political repression and execution sentences. Pro-Republic Spaniards in the United States became people “without a country” with no right to U.S. citizenship and unable to seek the services of Spanish embassies and consulates in the United States. The Confederadas would financially and legally support these refugees by relocating them to visa-granting countries.