American Friends of Spanish Democracy records

1935-1939

The American Friends of Spanish Democracy (originally called Friends of Spanish Democracy) was founded in New York City in 1936 by a group of clergymen and intellectuals under the leadership of Roger Baldwin, a member of the executive committee, and Bishop Robert L. Paddock, the chairman. The objective of the organization was to arouse support for the Loyalist government during the Spanish Civil War. The records consist of correspondence, publicity files and printed matter relating to the American Friends of Spanish Democracy. General correspondence concerns fundraising, enlistment of support for the Loyalist cause, attempts to organize a delegation of prominent Americans to visit Spain, and the revision of American policy toward Spain. Correspondence includes file of minutes of executive committee meetings. Bombings protest correspondence is with clergymen and concerns the endorsement of protests against the bombings of civilian populations. Neutrality correspondence contains copies of letters protesting the arms embargo imposed on Spain under the Neutrality Acts. Publicity files include press releases, form letters, clippings, and printed matter created or collected by the American Friends of Spanish Democracy.