Annual. El desastre. Causas y Expediente Picasso

Name: Annual. El desastre. Causas y Expediente Picasso
Uploaded: 2021-11-18T18:23:07.000Z
Duration: 2 h 2 min 1 s

The Historical Significance of the Rif War

Overview of the Rif War and Its Impact

The successful amphibious landing at Alucas in September 1925 marked a pivotal moment, serving as a model for future Allied operations during World War II.

Despite this success, the complete control of the Spanish protectorate in Morocco was not achieved until 1927 when Abdel, the Rifeño leader, surrendered.

The war was characterized by brutality and is often overshadowed by Spain's previous colonial losses in Cuba and the Philippines. It left a lasting scar on Spanish history.

Key Events Leading to Disaster

On July 21, 1921, King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia attended a ceremony honoring historical figures while soldiers under Commander Benitez faced dire circumstances near Annual.

General Manuel Fernández Silvestre struggled to assist over 300 besieged soldiers at Igueriben after several days of siege; only 14 men survived from his command.

A general state of panic ensued as Silvestre's forces were trapped with limited options for retreat due to difficult terrain and dwindling resources.

The Retreat Plan and Its Consequences

Silvestre convened a meeting to discuss retreat strategies but faced confusion regarding execution; some commanders reported that Rifeños were advancing like an organized army.

As panic spread among troops, many fled without orders or leadership; indigenous police turned against Spanish forces during their retreat through treacherous paths.

The disastrous outcome resulted in significant casualties—over 1,200 Spaniards died within hours as they attempted to escape from Annual amidst chaos and betrayal from local allies.

Reflection on Historical Memory

The events at Annual are critical yet largely forgotten in contemporary Spain despite resulting in nearly 10,000 deaths within two weeks—a tragedy that reshaped national history.

There is minimal recognition of these events in popular culture or memorialization compared to other military disasters globally; only two streets honor General Silvestre today.

What Happened in Annual?

Historical Context and Key Figures

The discussion begins with a theatrical representation of Spain's historical events, particularly focusing on the significance of the restoration period and its artistic depictions.

Manuel Serrano and Alejandro Ramírez delve into the critical decisions made by General Silvestre during the collapse of Melilla, emphasizing ongoing questions about the Annual disaster even 100 years later.

A key issue raised is the lack of accurate intelligence available to Silvestre’s command, which relied on misleading information from local police and corrupt leaders.

General Manuel Fernández Silvestre

General Silvestre, born in Cuba, was responsible for commanding troops in Annual. His relationships with influential figures shaped his military strategies during this crisis.

Silvestre's early military career was marked by legendary bravery against Cuban insurgents, earning him numerous accolades and establishing his reputation as a heroic figure.

After being wounded in Cuba, he moved to Spain where he continued to rise through military ranks due to his impressive performance and leadership qualities.

Relationships with Other Military Leaders

Berenguer, also a Cuban native and former comrade of Silvestre, played significant roles throughout their careers. Their shared history influenced their military collaboration.

Berenguer was described as having both strengths and weaknesses; he was seen as more like Silvestre than anyone else. His popularity mirrored that of Silvestre within Spanish society.

Military Structure Before Annual

The Spanish army prior to Annual resembled pre-WWI European armies but lacked modernization. Recruitment practices were inadequate, leading to poorly trained soldiers sent hastily into combat.

Berenguer held significant authority over civil and military matters in the protectorate. His establishment of regular forces marked a pivotal moment in Spanish military history.

Challenges Faced During Combat

The relationship between King Alfonso XIII and military leaders like Silvestre highlighted how royal influence permeated military operations during this era.

The state of the army before Annual revealed serious deficiencies: soldiers were ill-equipped, poorly maintained weaponry led to vulnerabilities on the battlefield.

The enemy leader Abdel Krim emerged as a charismatic figure who manipulated perceptions among his followers while challenging Spanish authority effectively throughout conflicts.

This structured summary encapsulates key discussions surrounding General Silvestre's role in the Annual disaster while providing insights into broader historical contexts involving other prominent figures and systemic issues within the Spanish military at that time.

The Role of Spain in the Rif Rebellion

Historical Context and Key Figures

The importance of European support is highlighted, with Spain being chosen as a collaborator in 1907. However, tensions grew over time leading to imprisonment in 1915.

Abdel Krim's relationship with General Silvestre was not direct; contrary to popular belief, he was neither a teacher nor physically assaulted by Silvestre during his youth.

Abdel Krim aimed to establish an independent Republic of the Rif, employing various strategies including controlling local traditional entities known as cofradías.

Military Strategies and Leadership

Despite the Rifeños' guerrilla warfare capabilities, Abdel Krim sought to modernize their tactics akin to European military standards while maintaining discipline among irregular forces.

In a final push for resistance, he urged his fighters to fight until death but ultimately negotiated safety for himself with French authorities.

Political Maneuvering and Governance

Berenguer's strategic planning during his tenure as Minister of War laid the groundwork for Spanish control over Morocco, leveraging prior experience in the region.

Appointed High Commissioner in early 1919, Berenguer separated civil and military responsibilities but later requested command over African troops.

Tactical Approaches and Local Alliances

Berenguer’s effective leadership led to significant military achievements while navigating complex relationships with other generals like Silvestre.

His strategy involved negotiating politically with local leaders for loyalty in exchange for protection from Spanish forces.

Intelligence Operations and Military Logistics

The approach included creating indigenous police forces and showcasing military strength without actual engagement due to public opposition against war.

Intelligence operations were crucial; however, misinformation led to failures such as those experienced at Anuel.

Challenges Faced During Conflict

The geographical challenges of northern Morocco necessitated advanced bases rather than large troop movements due to risks of ambushes in mountainous terrain.

Public sentiment against the conflict influenced government decisions regarding troop deployments and resource allocations.

Negotiating Public Sentiment Against the War in Africa

Context of Military Presence

The public's aversion to the war in Africa is linked to the presence of many soldiers stationed in precarious conditions, which raises concerns about their safety.

In response to public opposition, authorities decide not to deploy mainland soldiers for frontline operations, opting instead for indigenous police forces.

Leadership and Strategic Goals

Manuel Fernández Silvestre is appointed as commander general of Melilla on January 30, 1920, with a clear objective to extend Spanish borders towards Alhucemas Bay.

Since 1913, various invasion plans aimed at Alhucemas have been developed; all recognized that local tribal collaboration was essential for success.

Military Operations and Challenges

Silvestre is celebrated as a hero upon his arrival in Melilla on February 13, 1920; his mission aligns with the Berenguer plan but soon faces operational limits.

By March 1921, Silvestre's aggressive territorial expansion leads to overextension without consolidating rear support.

Resource Requests and Tactical Concerns

Following the occupation of Anual in January 1921, Silvestre requests funding from the high commissioner for infrastructure improvements crucial for future military deployments.

Despite awareness of potential dangers at strategic locations like Izum Pass, communications suggest confidence in control until April when issues arise.

Intelligence and Local Dynamics

A visit by high commissioner Berenguer reveals missing tribal leaders during critical meetings, raising alarms among military intelligence regarding local loyalty.

During a trip back to Spain in May, Silvestre seeks additional resources while tensions escalate due to increasing hostilities in western regions.

Religious Influence on Resistance

Significant power within Rif society lies with religious brotherhoods rather than traditional leadership structures; these groups play pivotal roles during conflicts against colonial forces.

The Lailla brotherhood's involvement suggests deeper socio-religious dynamics influencing resistance efforts against Spanish and French actions.

Escalation Towards Conflict

Reports indicate that calls for jihad are gaining traction among local populations influenced by religious leaders amidst rising tensions throughout 1919.

Indigenous police intelligence begins questioning why certain religious factions are mobilizing support against Spanish rule amid fears of French manipulation behind these movements.

Military Strategies and Political Tensions in the Riff War

The Fall of Abarán and Its Aftermath

The indigenous police desertion coincides with fortification efforts, leading to a potential betrayal by local tribes that had requested the capture of Abarán, resulting in the position's fall shortly after occupation.

Following the capture of Abarán, Rife forces unsuccessfully attempt to assault Sid Idris, defended by Commander Benítez, highlighting the strategic importance of this location amidst ongoing conflicts.

Silvestre was aware of intelligence reports regarding enemy movements but was restricted from conducting punitive operations against Rife forces due to Berenguer's orders limiting offensive actions.

Command Conflicts and Resource Requests

Silvestre's attempts at dissuading Rife aggression through punitive measures were not sanctioned by Berenguer, who only permitted limited counterattacks without allowing broader offensive strategies.

On June 5th, tensions escalate during a heated meeting between Silvestre and Berenguer aboard a cruiser; Berenguer denies additional reinforcements despite Silvestre’s urgent requests for support.

Military Logistics and Strategic Failures

Some researchers question Silvestre's requests for troops and funding as unrealistic or performative; actual troop numbers in Melilla were likely lower than officially reported.

The undeclared war extends from the Atlantic to Algeria, focusing on the western front where Rauni is nearing defeat; however, Rife forces have their own plans complicating military efforts.

Terrain Challenges and Supply Lines

The Loma de los Árboles consists of three extensive hills that are militarily challenging to occupy; controlling these areas is crucial for protecting supply convoys from enemy attacks.

Annual serves as an advanced base designed for temporary troop housing and supplies; its mountainous surroundings necessitate a column-based warfare strategy due to mobility constraints.

Communication Issues and Operational Decisions

Silvestre emphasizes the need for rapid communication with Melilla through road construction proposals while also stressing defensive positions around Annual following Abarán’s loss.

Despite maintaining calm communications until mid-July, both government officials and military leaders remain unaware of escalating issues affecting operational effectiveness on the ground.

Increasing Hostilities and Tactical Responses

As water supply issues worsen towards mid-July, Silvestre faces political limitations preventing him from taking strategic positions like Loma de los Árboles while enduring continuous harassment from Rife forces.

In response to growing threats around Annual, Silvestre proposes air bombardments against key locations but experiences limited success in alleviating pressure on his troops.

The Abandonment of Annual: Key Events and Consequences

The Final Attempts to Rescue the Army

Between July 18 and July 21, there were last attempts to assist the besieged forces at Annual, but these efforts were deemed futile as the combat unit had suffered significant losses.

On July 22, panic ensued as Silvestre abandoned Annual. His death remains uncertain with conflicting accounts suggesting either suicide or disappearance; his unexpected fall from command left a leadership void.

Reports indicate that Silvestre likely did not commit suicide; however, his actions during this crisis reflected a suicidal attitude, leading to speculation about his demise being at the hands of others.

The Retreat and Its Aftermath

During the retreat on July 22, 1248 soldiers died. General Navarro was tasked with overseeing this retreat but faced chaos as troops fled in disarray, making them vulnerable to ambushes by Riffian forces.

Despite orders for resistance and waiting for reinforcements, panic led to dispersion among troops. Some officers managed to hold their positions while Navarro's fragmented army retreated towards Melilla.

Heroic Acts Amidst Chaos

A notable unit during this turmoil was the Alcántara Hunters regiment under Lieutenant Colonel Fernando Primo de Rivera. They distinguished themselves on July 23 by successfully executing their mission despite overwhelming odds.

The regiment's initial separation for final operations allowed them to regroup effectively, enabling coordinated efforts in protecting retreats and clearing paths amidst fierce fighting.

Strategic Failures and Humanitarian Crisis

Following Silvestre’s death and the collapse of military command in Melilla, no strategic plans were developed over a span of 21 days leading up to capitulation on August 9.

High Commissioner Berenguer recognized that rescuing trapped soldiers would require a force of approximately 6,000 men but could not adequately defend Melilla or prevent mass killings that occurred later.

Escalating Tensions and Public Response

The indigenous population's cruelty towards Spanish soldiers stemmed from historical grievances. Survivors became a logistical challenge for Berenguer amid rising tensions within Melilla.

As conditions worsened in Melilla with an influx of troops exceeding local population capacity, public concern grew significantly. Cities like Málaga mobilized support for survivors through hospitals and aid initiatives during this critical period.

Military Investigations and Accountability in Spain

The Impact of the Annual Disaster

The recovery of Monte Arru months after the disaster had a profound media impact in Spain, causing national shock regarding the events that transpired.

An internal investigation, known as the Picasso file, was initiated to determine responsibilities for the failures during the Annual campaign. General Picasso faced significant military and political limitations imposed by higher authorities.

Challenges Faced by General Picasso

General Picasso's efforts to investigate were hindered by political pressures from high-ranking officials, including members of the monarchy, preventing thorough accountability for key figures like High Commissioner Berenguer.

Despite these challenges, Picasso conducted interrogations of 37 individuals responsible within Melilla's command structure and sought information from advanced posts to analyze command actions.

Findings and Limitations of the Investigation

The instruction document from the Picasso investigation is crucial for understanding the collapse of Melilla's command in summer 1921 due to its immediacy and thoroughness.

Many witnesses attempted to evade responsibility during their testimonies; this defensive posture highlighted systemic issues within the military hierarchy.

Consequences of Accountability Efforts

While some individuals were held accountable post-investigation, many key figures had already passed away or were shielded from prosecution due to their status.

The limitations placed on investigating responsibilities meant that not all culpable parties were included in proceedings, which could have implicated higher government officials or even royalty.

Historical Context and Aftermath

The ongoing publication of documents related to the Picasso file reveals extensive information previously unavailable about military operations during this period.

Ultimately, critical documents went missing or unprinted, leading to incomplete historical records regarding accountability at high levels within Spanish governance.

Political Ramifications

The findings led to significant political upheaval; accusations against several ministers culminated in a governmental crisis that contributed to Miguel Primo de Rivera’s coup against García Prieto’s administration.

This report was pivotal in dismantling existing power structures and ultimately contributed to ending monarchical rule in Spain through subsequent political shifts over seven years.

Legal Outcomes

Damaso Berenguer was found guilty of negligence but later granted amnesty; his case exemplified how military justice interacted with broader political dynamics during this tumultuous period.

Testimonies collected during investigations challenged prevailing narratives about military failures at Annual, emphasizing Berenguer's leadership role amidst widespread chaos.

War in Africa: The Spanish Military Campaign

Context of the Conflict

The Spanish military aimed for victory over the Rifeños, which was crucial for Spain's international image and commitments to France and England.

After recovering Monte Harid in autumn 1921, soldiers and clergy worked tirelessly to recover mutilated bodies from previous battles, highlighting the brutal nature of the conflict.

Role of Religious Institutions

Religious institutions offered their facilities as hospitals due to a lack of medical resources in Melilla, demonstrating their involvement in supporting military efforts.

The need for modernization within the military was emphasized, including improvements in training, equipment, and living conditions for troops.

Tactical Changes and Military Strategy

A shift in strategy involved deploying three columns instead of one and utilizing aviation effectively during combat operations.

Control over Alucemas was deemed critical; successful landings there would significantly reduce resistance from local forces.

Collaboration and Key Operations

Cooperation between Spanish and French forces led to a successful amphibious operation that marked a significant tactical achievement in early 20th-century warfare.

By spring two years after capturing Alucemas, Morocco was largely pacified following Abel's surrender.

Commemoration of Fallen Soldiers

The cemetery in Melilla serves as a memorial site for over 20,000 fallen soldiers from various campaigns, with notable monuments like the Pantheon of Heroes housing more than 3,000 remains.

Among those commemorated are individuals such as López Aroca and Diego Melgar Molina, reflecting on the human cost of the conflict.