requeté

Requeté was a Spanish Catholic ultra-monarchist and Carlists movement. The term "Requeté" specifically referred to the paramilitary forces that fought in defense of Carlism, a traditionalist and legitimist political movement in Spain that advocated for a separate line of succession to the Spanish throne. The Requetés were known for their distinctive red berets and their strong religious and royalist convictions.

Historically, the Requetés played a significant role in several Carlist Wars during the 19th century. They were a fervent and often fanatical force, deeply devoted to the Catholic faith and the idea of a traditional monarchy. Their military actions were characterized by a willingness to fight and die for their cause.

During the Second Spanish Republic and the subsequent Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), the Requetés were a key component of the Nationalist forces led by Francisco Franco. They fought alongside other groups such as the Falangists and the Spanish Army. Their participation in the Civil War was crucial to the Nationalist victory, though their political influence waned after the war as Franco consolidated power and established his own authoritarian regime.

After the Civil War, the Requeté movement gradually declined. While some elements continued to exist and advocate for Carlist ideals, their paramilitary role ceased. The traditionalist and monarchist aspirations they represented remained a part of Spanish political discourse but did not regain the prominence they held in earlier centuries. The legacy of the Requeté is often associated with fervent religious and royalist sentiment and their significant, albeit controversial, role in Spanish military and political history.