Meaning: The quote you provided highlights a significant moment in history during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). The conflict was a complex and deeply divisive struggle between the Republicans, who were comprised of various left-wing factions including socialists, communists, and anarchists, and the Nationalists, led by General Francisco Franco and supported by conservative factions, the Catholic Church, and authoritarian regimes such as Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy.

The news of open military assistance to Franco from Hitler's Germany and Mussolini's Italy had far-reaching implications. It signaled the involvement of powerful fascist regimes in a conflict that was already of great international concern. The military support from these totalitarian states not only bolstered Franco's forces but also heightened fears of the spread of fascism across Europe. This development also underscored the ideological and geopolitical complexities of the Spanish Civil War, as it became a proxy battleground for the broader struggle between fascism and democracy in the lead-up to World War II.

In contrast to the support received by Franco, the quote also references the heroic resistance of the people of Madrid, Barcelona, and other major cities in Spain. These urban centers became symbols of the Republican resistance, as they fiercely defended themselves against Franco's Nationalist forces. The resilience and determination shown by the people of these cities captured the attention and admiration of many around the world, sparking a widespread desire to support the Republican cause.

Bill Alexander, the politician who is attributed to the quote, likely recognized the significance of these events and the impact they had on shaping public sentiment. The news of the open military support for Franco and the valiant resistance of the Republican-held cities undoubtedly influenced international attitudes and responses to the Spanish Civil War.

In analyzing the quote, it is important to consider the broader historical context of the Spanish Civil War and its global ramifications. The conflict not only reflected the deep divisions within Spanish society but also became a focal point for the ideological struggles and power dynamics of the interwar period. The involvement of foreign powers, particularly the support provided by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy to the Nationalists, added a layer of international intrigue and heightened the stakes of the conflict.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the impact of these events on public sentiment and the emergence of a widespread desire to support the Spanish Republic and its people. This sentiment manifested in various forms, including international volunteer brigades such as the International Brigades, composed of volunteers from different countries who rallied to the defense of the Republican cause. The conflict also sparked passionate debates and activism in many countries, with individuals and organizations advocating for aid and solidarity with the Republican side.

In conclusion, the quote captures a pivotal moment in the Spanish Civil War, marked by the open military support for Franco from Hitler and Mussolini, and the courageous resistance of the Republican-held cities. It reflects the global significance of the conflict and the ways in which it galvanized international responses and solidarity efforts. The events referenced in the quote continue to serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities and consequences of ideological struggles, foreign intervention, and the resilience of those caught in the midst of tumultuous historical events.