Francisco Franco

About

Spanish military general who served as the dictator of his country from 1939 to 1975. He was often referred to as El Generalisimo and was known for his violent and inhumane enforcement of his regime. 

Before Fame

He joined the Spanish Army because the Spanish American War had shut down the Navy.

Trivia

He held a right-wing nationalist position during the Spanish Civil War.

Family Life

He married Maria del Carmen Polo y Martinez-Valdes in October 1923. He had one daughter, Carmen Franco. 

Associated With

Richard Nixon called Franco a loyal friend and ally of the U.S.