A tragic end in time of conflict
On November 19, 1938, almost nine decades ago, the city of Malaga witnessed the death of General Miguel Cabanellas Ferrer, a central figure in the events that marked the Spanish Civil War. In a context marked by political turbulence, its disappearance occurred in unknown circumstances that raised numerous suspicions.
A military man with a complex past
Born in Cartagena in 1872 in a family -owned family environment, Cabanellas forged his career on the battlefields of Cuba and Morocco. He took an active part in historical conflicts that defined his military career, such as the Third War of Independence and the Wars of Africa.
From conspirator to deputy
His life took an unexpected turn in the 1930’s, when he was involved in a conspiracy against the monarchy of Alfonso XIII, which resulted in the execution of two captains. Despite this past, he found a new role as a Member of the CEDA coalition, which defended anti -republican interests during the Second Republic.
A key role in war
Cabanellas played a key role in the events that triggered the Civil War, actively participating in the preparations for the military coup that disrupted Spain. Its influence became apparent with the restoration of the Spanish monarchic flag, which replaced the republican tricolor in the areas occupied by the rebels.
The controversy of the flag
In addition, he incorporated the eagle of San Juan into the design of the flag, a symbol that has generated various debate and interpretations in Catalonia and the rest of Spain. This decision reflected his alignment with the nationalist values that predominated between the coup participants.
Their opposition to Franco
One of the most significant moments of his career took place during a meeting of the National Defense Board on September 21, 1936, where Cabanellas firmly opposed the idea of appointing General Franco as the supreme leader of the revolt. His words resonated with concern: he warned his companions about Franco’s intentions, who, he said, wanted to consolidate his power without leaving room for others.
Reflections on his legacy
Miguel Cabanellas is remembered as a contradictory figure, who sailed between military loyalty and political ambitions in a time of great turbulence. His death, surrounded by mystery, continues to feed his role in one of the darkest periods in Spain’s history, leaving a legacy that still causes discussions between historians and analysts.
