The Communist Party of Spain (PCE) is a political party founded in 1921. It emerged from the Spanish socialist movement and aimed to promote Marxist-Leninist principles. The PCE played a significant role during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) by opposing the fascist forces led by Francisco Franco. After the war, the party was banned and operated underground until Spain transitioned to democracy in the late 1970s. In the post-Franco era, the PCE became a legal political party and participated in the democratic process. It has since been involved in various coalitions and alliances, including the United Left (Izquierda Unida). The party continues to advocate for socialist policies and workers' rights in contemporary Spain.