Utilizing newsreel footage from a variety of archives, the documentary reviews the Spanish Civil War from its beginnings in 1931 to Franco's rise to power in 1939.

Composed of newsreel footage from the archives of six countries, the film reviews the Spanish Civil War from its origins in 1931 to Franco's consolidation of power in 1939, with scenes of modern Spain juxtaposed. Scenes of the following events and organizations are included: the 1931 elections won by the Republicans and the formation of the Second Spanish Republic; growth of opposition to the republic by the upper class, the Roman Catholic Church, monarchists, Carlists, military cliques, and eventually the Falange; the electoral victory of the Popular Front in 1936; reforms instituted by the Popular Front causing violent reaction by many segments of Nationalists; recognition of the Nationalist government by Hitler and Mussolini; the influx of German and Italian war matériel to the Nationalists and Russian aid to the Republicans; the International Brigade of foreign sympathizers to the Loyalist (Republican) cause; the Condor Legion; Republican and Nationalist soldiers in battle; the execution of Federico García Lorca; the defense of Madrid; the silencing of philosopher Unamuno; the destruction of Guernica; Basque priests walking to their execution; the battle of Guadalajara; Hitler reviewing German troops recently returned from Spain; the demobilization of the International Brigade in Barcelona; and Franco's final victory.