The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Spanish Civil War
Dolores Ibárruri (1895–1989): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 9 December 1895, Gallarta (Biscay) |
|---|---|
| Died | 12 November 1989, Madrid |
| Key roles | Cortes deputy (1936); Secretary General of the Spanish Communist Party (1942–1960); exile in the Soviet Union (1939–1977) |
| Documents bearing her name | Letters, signed photographs and books, party documents |
| In the collection | 1 piece currently available (see below) |
Dolores Ibárruri, “La Pasionaria”, became the most famous voice of the Spanish Republic in the Civil War. She spent almost four decades in exile and returned to Spain after Franco’s death.
Who Was Dolores Ibárruri?
Ibárruri was born in Gallarta in the Basque Country in 1895. She joined the Spanish Communist Party on its founding in 1921 and was elected to the Cortes in February 1936. During the Civil War her cry “¡No pasarán!” (“They shall not pass!”) became a slogan of the Republic. She went into exile in Moscow in 1939, led the party as Secretary General from 1942 to 1960, and returned to Spain in 1977, when she was elected to parliament again.
What Documents Bear Ibárruri’s Signature?
Her signature appears on letters, photographs, books and party documents, many from her years in exile or after her return. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Most items date from exile or from after 1977.
- Check the context and language of letters.
- Signed photographs need comparison with authenticated exemplars.
Legacy
Ibárruri remains a powerful and divisive figure in Spanish memory. She died in Madrid on 12 November 1989.
Collector’s Note
Documents of the Spanish Civil War sit close to home for me. I describe both sides’ material with the same care and the same neutrality.
Related Entries and Pieces
Pieces in the Collection
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who was La Pasionaria?
Dolores Ibárruri, communist leader and voice of the Spanish Republic.
When did she return to Spain?
In 1977.
When did she die?
On 12 November 1989 in Madrid.
Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology.
References & Further Reading
- Cazorla-Sánchez, A., ‘Ibárruri, Dolores (La Pasionaria) (1895–1989)’, Encyclopedia of Modern Europe: Europe Since 1914, via Encyclopedia.com.