Ethel MacDonald: Scotland’s Rebel Voice in the Spanish Civil War
Ethel MacDonald (1909–1960) may not be a household name—but she should be. A bold journalist, anarchist, and political activist from Lanarkshire, Scotland, MacDonald became one of the few women to broadcast on radio during the Spanish Civil War. Her courage, commitment, and refusal to stay silent made her a powerful force in the fight against fascism and a pioneer of women’s political activism.
From Lanarkshire to the Frontlines of Revolution
Born into a working-class family in Bellshill, MacDonald grew up with a strong sense of social justice. Initially drawn to the Independent Labour Party, she soon became disillusioned with parliamentary politics and turned toward anarchism, aligning herself with movements that championed workers’ rights, direct action, and radical social change.
In 1936, as Spain erupted into civil war, Ethel saw an opportunity to stand up for her beliefs. She travelled to Barcelona to support the Republican side and joined the CNT-FAI, Spain’s powerful anarchist union. There, she broke new ground as an English-language radio broadcaster—rallying international support, exposing fascist propaganda, and giving voice to the anarchist cause.
More Than a Broadcaster
MacDonald wasn’t just speaking into a microphone—she was living the revolution. Through her reports and writings, she documented a social transformation in progress: factories run by workers, land shared in collective farms, and communities organising themselves without rulers or bosses.
But the revolution faced danger not only from Franco’s fascist forces but also from Communist factions within the Republican alliance. When Stalin-backed communists turned against anarchists and other leftists, Ethel stepped up once more—this time to help the persecuted.
She smuggled messages, helped prisoners escape, and worked to expose the repression taking place behind Republican lines. It wasn’t long before she became a target herself. Arrested by the Communist-controlled authorities, she was imprisoned and eventually deported in 1937.
Back Home, Still Fighting
Back in Scotland, Ethel MacDonald didn’t retire from activism. She continued to write, speak at events, and support radical political causes. Despite a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in the 1950s, which gradually affected her mobility, she remained politically engaged until her death in 1960.
Why She Matters Today
Ethel MacDonald’s life is a testament to courage, principle, and action. At a time when few women were heard in political movements—let alone on international radio—she stood up, spoke out, and took risks for the causes she believed in. Her work during the Spanish Civil War, particularly her resistance to both fascism and authoritarianism, remains relevant and inspiring to this day.
She wasn’t just a witness to history.
She made it.
📚 Want to dive deeper into her life and legacy?
Check out this detailed article from Glasgow Libraries.
