By 1936, Spain's early attempt at democracy had collapsed, resulting in the outbreak of a civil war. This conflict highlighted the fragility of democratic systems and how quickly they can deteriorate into violence and authoritarianism. The struggle for power among various factions in Spain underscored the challenges that democracies face in maintaining stability and legitimacy.

In "How Democracies Die," author Steven Levitsky delves into the factors that can lead to the decline of democratic governance. The Spanish Civil War serves as a stark example of how political divisions and societal tensions can escalate, ultimately threatening the foundation of democracy itself. Levitsky's analysis warns against complacency in democratic societies and emphasizes the need for vigilance in protecting democratic institutions.