Controversy Erupts Over Postponement of Civil War Event Amid Threats of Violence

Historian Manel Márquez has issued a powerful statement concerning the postponement of the contentious event titled '1936: The War That We All Lost.' This event has attracted significant controversy due to the refusal of prominent figures like David Uclés and Antonio Maíllo to participate. Organizers Arturo Pérez-Reverte and Jesús Vigorra released a statement through the EFE Agency, explaining that threats of violent protests from far-left groups on social media have prompted them to advise the Cajasol Foundation to postpone the congress, which is set to occur during the XI edition of Letras in Sevilla next week. The organizers fueled the controversy by blaming Podemos and allied media outlets for mounting pressure on some of the participants, creating an atmosphere of intimidation that has influenced the event's logistics. Meanwhile, the Cajasol Foundation has opted for a more reserved approach, stating the event will be rescheduled to the following autumn. The unexpected withdrawals have caused significant organizational challenges. Márquez expressed a clear opinion in a tweet directed at writer Arturo Pérez-Reverte, criticizing the latter for canceling the event he organized. He remarked on the context of the 1936 Civil War, stating, 'In 1936, Franco and the fascists led us into war, just like their allies Hitler and Mussolini did in their time.' Márquez concluded with a salient message: 'Enough of fascist lies.' This situation has sparked discussions on social media. One user on the platform X raised the concern that while individuals may disagree with the ideas presented at Reverte's event, prohibiting such ideas and stifling open debate threatens the very essence of freedom of expression and echoes fascist tendencies. In response, Márquez questioned the validity of debating with the followers of Hitler and Mussolini regarding whether all parties lost World War II. He further asked whether the descendants of those responsible for the massacres of millions during Nazism and fascism should be granted a voice in such discussions, labeling the notion as 'ridiculous.' The event's agenda initially included notable attendees, leading writer David Uclés to withdraw given the presence of controversial figures such as José María Aznar and Iván Espinosa de los Monteros. Other scheduled participants included Víctor Amela, Alejandro Amenábar, Rubén Amón, Ignacio Camacho, Julián Casanova, Carmen Calvo, Fernando del Rey, Juan Echanove, Ester Muñoz, and Sergio Vila-Sanjuán. The unfolding events underscore a growing tension surrounding discussions of Spain's historical conflicts and the modern-day ramifications of those narratives, invoking critical questions about freedom of expression, historical interpretation, and the implications of political ideologies in contemporary society. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2