German Propaganda in Francoist Spain: Diplomatic Information Bulletins as a Primary Tool of Nazi Propaganda

Many monographs have been written about the power and the appeal of nazi propaganda but, as new studies flourish, one idea seems to be confirmed – that of effective propaganda in Germany versus inadequate and ineffective propaganda abroad. Although this seems to be certain, specific studies need to be written in order to confirm it for each country. In order to study the Spanish case in depth, this article analyses the collection of information bulletins issued by the German embassy in Madrid, and reserved for the Spanish authorities only, in order to explore how the propaganda directives issued from Berlin were adapted to Spain. This study provides an insight into how Hitler’s Germany wanted to present the war, not only to the world, but foremost to its potential allies in the conflict. In addition, the analysis of the bulletins provides us with an instrument to understand better the possible expectations that the course of the war aroused in Franco’s own party and to what extent they influenced how the Falange foresaw the future and acted in consequence