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Alfredo KindelanSpanish military leader, general.
Date of Birth: 13.03.1879
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Aviation Pioneer
- Command in the Rif War
- Monarchist in Exile
- Civil War Commander
- Post-War Career
- Exile and Return
Early Life and Military Career
Alfredo Kindelán y Duany was born into a military family in Havana, Cuba, in 1879. After the Spanish-American War in 1898, his family relocated to Spain. At age 14, Kindelán entered the engineering academy in Guadalajara, graduating as a lieutenant in 1899.
Aviation Pioneer
In 1901, Kindelán joined the Military Aeronautics Service and became a renowned pilot and aeronaut. He participated twice in the Gordon Bennett Cup, an international aerostatic championship. As an author, he published books on airships and airplanes.
Command in the Rif War
During the Rif War in Morocco, Kindelán commanded the first aviation squadron. In 1925, he became commander of aviation in Melilla. His leadership in developing Spanish aviation earned him the rank of general in 1926.
Monarchist in Exile
After the overthrow of the monarchy in 1931, Kindelán left Spain due to his monarchist beliefs. He lived and worked as an engineer in France and Switzerland. In 1934, he returned to Spain and became involved in planning a nationalist uprising.
Civil War Commander
In 1936, the Spanish Civil War erupted. Kindelán was appointed commander of the nationalist air force, organizing it amidst a shortage of pilots. He played a crucial role in the selection of Francisco Franco as the nationalist leader.
Post-War Career
Following the war, Kindelán was not appointed as Minister of Aviation, as Franco aimed to prevent the rise of monarchists. Instead, he held command positions in the army. In the 1940s, he was involved in the political debate over Spain's future, advocating for a restoration of the monarchy.
Exile and Return
Due to his monarchist stance, Kindelán was dismissed from his post and exiled to the Canary Islands in 1946. However, after Franco's relations with the monarchists improved, Kindelán was recalled to Madrid. He resumed his place in the Academy of History and received the Medal of Aviation. In 1949, he retired from the military.
