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After 1936 the Spanish Civil War became the focal issue for Europe’s socialist and communist parties. The rise of Hitler to power had made anti fascist struggle the most important battle for communist movements, especially as StalinStalin Joseph Vissarionovich Stalin (18 December 1878 – 5 March 1953) was a Soviet politician, dictator and revolutionary who led the Soviet Union from 1924 until his death in 1953. Read More had encouraged political divisions between communist and social democratic parties in the run up to 1933. Explaining History helps you understand the 20th Century through critical conversations and expert interviews. We connect the past to the present. If you enjoy t

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