Introduction

The question of what would have happened if Adolf Hitler had managed to flee to and reach Spain in 1945 is a fascinating and morbid one. The answer to whether General Francisco Franco, the authoritarian leader of Spain during the Francoist regime, would have indeed protected Hitler is, without a doubt, a resounding no.

This article delves into the historical context, Franco's attitude towards fascism, and the international pressure that would have certainly been applied to Spain. We will explore the reasons why any such move would have been catastrophic for Franco's government and ultimately impossible.

Historical Context

By the end of 1945, the global landscape was dramatically different from that of 1939, the beginning of World War II. The world was united in its abhorrence of Nazism and the crimes committed under Hitler's regime. The United Nations, established in 1945, symbolized the world's commitment to international cooperation and justice.

Francisco Franco's Attitude and Policies

Francisco Franco, though a staunch fascist, was also a pragmatist. Throughout his rule, he had harbored many Nazis, most notably Klaus Barbie, a high-ranking SS official. However, these actions were seen as a strategic move by Franco to maintain his power and enhance his reputation among certain historical and political circles.

Crucially, Franco's Spain was still dealing with the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). The conflict between Republicans and Nationalists had left deep divisions in Spanish society, and many people were still hoping for a return to the pre-war democratic system. This was a delicate period for Franco, who needed to balance his internal and external pressures.

International Pressure on Franco

The global community, including the Allies, would have immediately pressured Spain to cooperate and hand over Hitler. The United Nations, which was only recently established, would certainly have taken a strong stance against potential war crimes and would have threatened military intervention. The international community, including the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, France, and the United States, would have rallied against Spain if it were to harbor or protect Hitler.

Key Points:

The World's Demand for Hitler's Extradition: The entire world would have demanded the extradition of Hitler, given his unprecedented atrocities. The international community would have seen Spain as a haven for war criminals and would have taken strong action to intervene.

UN Threats and Military Intervention: It is highly likely that the United Nations would have threatened to invade Spain if Franco had not complied with turning Hitler over. This would have significantly weakened Franco's hold on power and endangered his life.

Potential for Civil War in Spain: The 1930s were marked by civil unrest and tensions. Allies like the Soviet Union and other European powers would have seen an opportunity to destabilize and topple the Franco regime, given the renewed hatred for Nazism and fascism.

Nationalist vs. Republican Tensions: Within Spain, there were still many supporters of the defeated Republicans and others who would have seen Hitler's presence as a rallying cry to resume the conflict against the Franco regime.

Alternative Solutions and Their Implausibility

Alternative scenarios of how Hitler might have sought refuge in Spain after his apparent defeat in 1945 include:

Extradition to the Allies: The most likely outcome would have been that the Allies would have given Franco an ultimatum. If he failed to turn over Hitler, the Allies would have threatened to dismantle his government and potentially bring about the downfall of Franco's regime.

Killing Hitler: Considering the heightened security measures and the Allies' relentless pursuit, Franco would likely have had Hitler killed to prevent any further complications or threats. Given the political climate, this option would be more feasible than protecting him.

Extradition to South America: Even for former Nazi figures to escape to South America, a covert operation involving the Vatican would have been necessary. However, this would have required cooperation from South American leaders like Juan Perón, who was likely unwilling to become an international pariah with his association with a foreign fugitive. Additionally, the Argentine government would not have welcomed the risk and potential for international backlash.

Conclusion

Given the global and regional pressures, it is clear that Francisco Franco would not have allowed Hitler to escape to Spain in 1945. The international community's response, the hatred towards fascism, and the strategic balance of power in post-war Europe would have ensured that any harboring of Hitler would have been anathema. The act of protecting Hitler would have significantly compromised Franco's regime, preventing it from ever occurring.