Paddy Watts & Janine Davies Digital Artefact

Revolutions can manifest in various forms, ranging from peaceful transitions to significant upheavals in regimes and governments. The French Revolution and the Spanish Civil War illustrate revolutions characterised by widespread dissent and subsequent disorder. These movements did not immediately establish new systems of order; rather, they often resulted in further fragmentation and chaos due to internal conflicts among smaller factions, ultimately leading to further instability.

             Both conflicts occurred almost 137 years apart, resulting in substantial differences in the ways the revolutions were reported on and interpreted. In France, propaganda was widely used as a tool to reach the populace through art, literature, performance, and pamphlets. Some of the most active participants and creators were established artists and writers who also served on the bench of the National Convention. By contrast, during the Spanish Civil War, the interpretation and reporting of the crisis differed significantly from that of the French Revolution. By the 1930s, communication methods had improved considerably. Literacy rates had increased, leading to the growth of the popular press, which allowed the general public to form their own opinions. Although radio was still developing, it provided another means for the public to stay informed about current events.