Late Night Live - Separate stories podcast
The Australians who fought Franco
Apr 24, 2025
Michael Samaras, a citizen historian and author of 'Anti-Fascists,' discusses the courageous Australians who fought against Franco's fascism in the Spanish Civil War. He sheds light on the personal stories of these volunteers, including Jim McNeil, who faced government opposition to their cause. The podcast explores the ongoing struggle for recognition of their contributions, the vital roles of women in supporting efforts, and the historical context of free speech activism in 1920s Australia, presenting a vivid portrait of defiance against tyranny.
24:38
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Quick takeaways
- Around 65 to 70 Australians volunteered to fight against fascism in the Spanish Civil War, defying government orders and policies.
- Despite their significant contributions, these volunteers remain largely unrecognized in Australian history due to governmental silence and historical narratives.
Deep dives
Australian Volunteers in the Spanish Civil War
During the Spanish Civil War, around 65 to 70 Australians defied their government’s non-intervention policy to fight against fascism. These volunteers were motivated by a strong sense of conviction and conscience, exemplified by figures like Jim McNeil. Despite their bravery and commitment, the Australian government and historical narratives largely overlooked their contributions, primarily because they opposed the government's appeasement stance toward dictators. The historical silence surrounding these volunteers is attributed to the fact that they did not receive official support and often traveled illegally to Spain, stowing away on ships and using false names to join the fight.
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