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Jose VarelaSpanish military leader, general
Date of Birth: 17.04.1891
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Juan Yagüe Blanco
- Decorations and Promotions in Morocco
- Involvement in Political Upheaval
- Role in the Civil War
- Military Successes in Andalusia
- Support for Franco's Leadership
Juan Yagüe Blanco
Early Life and Military CareerBorn in 1891 to a sergeant in the Spanish Marine Infantry, Juan Yagüe Blanco joined the same regiment in 1909. He was promoted to sergeant and entered the Infantry School in 1912. Upon graduating in 1915, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and served in the Las Fuerzas Regulares Indigenas in Melilla.
Decorations and Promotions in Morocco
Yagüe distinguished himself in combat against local tribes, earning two Crosses of San Fernando with Laurel Branches and multiple promotions. In February 1926, he was awarded the Military Medal for Bravery and appointed to serve in Ceuta, Morocco. After the end of the colonial war, he was promoted to colonel in 1929, surpassing many of his peers who had graduated earlier.
Involvement in Political Upheaval
After the overthrow of the monarchy in 1931, Yagüe, a monarchist sympathizer, was discharged from the army. He participated in a right-wing coup attempt the following year, leading to his imprisonment. After his release, he joined the Carlist movement and organized its paramilitary units.
Role in the Civil War
In 1935, Yagüe was reinstated into the military and promoted to brigadier general. He actively plotted against the Republican government and participated in the Nationalist uprising of 1936. Despite being arrested by Republicans in April, he was released upon the Nationalists' capture of Cadiz in July.
Military Successes in Andalusia
Yagüe led Nationalist forces in Andalusia, successfully lifting the siege of Cordoba and establishing a connection between Cordoba, Seville, and Granada. In September, his troops captured Toledo, liberating the besieged Nationalists led by Colonel José Moscardo.
Support for Franco's Leadership
On September 30, 1936, Yagüe attended a meeting of Nationalist leaders and supported the appointment of Francisco Franco as Caudillo, the unified military and political leader.
