Intolerance Exhibition Documents Spanish Polarization

The exhibition 'Intolerance' serves as a visual narrative of the 20th century in Spain and its placement within a broader European context marked by violence. It traces the trajectory of political polarization and the subsequent impact of war on the Iberian nation. The display is situated at the Residencia de Estudiantes in Madrid, a historic institution that hosts these cultural events.

The artifacts on display illustrate the tragic history of the period. The exhibition aims to show how the rise of totalitarian regimes influenced the Spanish political and social landscape. By focusing on the years 1914 to 1945, the collection highlights the continuity of conflict and repression across two major global wars.

The collection features a diverse array of historical documents that offer tangible evidence of the era's turmoil. These items provide a unique glimpse into the daily lives and broader political struggles of the time. The variety of the collection underscores the pervasive nature of the conflict.

Among the specific items listed in the exhibition materials are:

• Books and photographs
• Speeches and pamphlets
• Postcards and posters
• Sketches of battles and political organization charts
• Poems, drawings, and cartoons
• A deck of cards and a children's coloring book

These items collectively trace the narrative of factionalism, war, brutal repression, and exile. The inclusion of personal items like a coloring book alongside political documents highlights the human cost of the era's totalitarian rise.

The exhibition places the Spanish experience within the wider framework of a convulsive Europe. The period between 1914 and 1945 was characterized by the rise of extreme political ideologies and the violent conflicts they spawned. The display explores how these continental trends manifested specifically within Spain.

The artifacts document the violent propagation of these ideologies. The narrative presented by the exhibition covers the progression from the initial polarization to the full-scale war and the subsequent repression and exile that followed. It is a study of how political violence reshaped a nation.

The 'Intolerance' exhibition at the Residencia de Estudiantes offers a critical look at a defining period in Spanish history. By showcasing the José María Castañé collection, the institution provides a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of the mid-20th century. The exhibition remains a poignant reminder of the consequences of political polarization and war.

Visitors have until April 12 to view these historical documents in Madrid. The collection stands as a testament to the tragic events that shaped modern Spain and its place in European history.