The Civil War broke out in Spain in 1937 and the fight involved the stuggle to overcome fascism.

General Franco who allied with the dictatorship of Hitler was toppled by Europe. Picasso as an artist was against the death of art and chose to side with the Republicans. In 1937 Picasso was asked to paint a mural to display for the Spanish Pavilion at the Exposition Universelle in Paris. Picasso agreed to this proposal but had no idea of what to paint. Picasso was under great pressure not having anything to paint for the Exposition opening in five months (Guernica of Pablo Picasso; Martin, Russell).

But the government selected Picasso hoping that he would paint something bold and "arresting." Picasso was a very famous artist at that time which was one reason that the Republicans chose him. Also he had a good reputation and as a result- influenced many of his viewers. In persuading Picasso, they promised him that the painting would remind the world that Picasso was the son of Spain. It was very important for the Spanish Republicans to be very well represented at the Exhibition and they knew that Picasso was best suited for the job (Guernica; Penrose, Roland).

Sources:

"Guernica of Pablo Picasso". 13 Jul. 2005. <http://personwanadoo.fr/art-deco.franco/guernica.html>.

"Guernica (1937)". 12 Oct. 2002. 13 Jul. 2005. <http://pubpages.unh.edu/~mwf/projects.html>.

Martin, Russel. Picasso’s War. New York. Artist Rights Society, 1937.