Fighting for Spain by Alexander Clifford
I usually start reading a book and after that I search for the author on youtube to watch lectures, talks, or interviews. But Fighting for Spain by Alexander Clifford* was different. I saw on twitter that the author will have a virtual book launch and so I joined in. It was fascinating and it made me very excited to get to read the book. The book is, as the subtitle explains, about The International Brigades in the Civil War, 1936-1939, so perfect for the latest module I’m studying at University, where my list of books I read on the Spanish Civil War reached a total of 9, really good considering I only started reading last month.
This is not a book to start with, if you don’t know anything on the civil war, but it’s a great book if you already know a bit and want to know more on the military side of things. Usually the books on the Spanish Civil War are dealing with the very complicated and intricate political aspects. So, this was a refreshing way of reading on the topic, especially after a few books on the political bits.
The book has lots and lots of pictures, quotes from primary sources, and biographical details on different prominent fighters, making the book very interesting. I enjoyed a lot reading it and I’m very glad that I was able to attend the virtual launch too. The book deals with the major battles of the war, talks about training, and so forth.
Fighting for Spain by Alexander Clifford
Details about the picture: –
My rating: 5/5 Stars
Would I recommend it: yes
Published by: Pen and Sword
Year it was published: 2020
Format: Hardcover
Genre(s): History – Spanish Civil War
Pages: 240
About the author: Alexander Clifford studied at universities in Leeds, Munich, and Northumbria. He is specialised in the Spanish Civil War and Interwar Europe. His publications include a study of the Republican army, an illustrated guide to the famous International Brigades and a forthcoming political biography of the German generals Paul von Hindenburg and Erich Ludendorff. He also co-hosts a podcast entitled History’s Most which explores a wide variety of historical topics.
Website & Social Media Links: Pen and Sword
*I was sent a copy of Fighting for Spain by Alexander Clifford for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.
Hi Anca,
This one is probably a little too ‘technical’ for want of a better word, for me. My knowledge of The Spanish Civil War, is rudimentary to say the least, so much of the content is going to be lost on me. I should imagine that it is a great book for your studies though! Are all of your lectures remote now, or do you still have to attend in person?
I haven’t had the courage to attend any of the virtual book events during the Covid crisis, however if things are going to continue like this for any extended period of time, I guess I am going to have to step up into the 21st Century and join the online march!
Thanks for sharing and enjoy the rest of your week 🙂
Yvonne xx
I will study online in the first term, as I’m part time. But, hopefully, from Hilary we can go back to face-to-face study.
You should try a virtual book launch. You can have your camera off, this is what I did. Do try it. 🙂