You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
alternatehistory.com
Not many people know this about the Spanish Civil War, and it's a fact that many history buffs can tend to forget, but in the beginning of the conflict it wasn't Francisco Franco who was tapped to lead the Nationalist Forces, rather it was Marshal Jose Sanjurjo a Spanish general who played a key role in the Rif War and was Commander of the Civil Guard. After the formation of the Spanish Republic Sanjurjo was involved in several disputes against the government, and was imprisoned for treason though exiled to Portugal. After the start of hostilities he was invited back into the country by the Nationalists in order to become their leader. He accepted and took a plan to Spain. Unfortunately for him the plane crashed and Sanjurjo died midflight due to his immense amount of personal luggage which was too heavy for the small biplane that he was riding in and threw off the weight of the crash, thus causing his death. But what if either the plane never crashed, or Sanjurjo never brought his luggage and he arrived safely in Spain. Would the Nationalists strategy and outcome change greatly from a new leader? If the Nationalists still win what will Sanjurjo's policy be like? Will he align closely with the Axis? What will Franco's new role be?