Political and propaganda playing cards

Throughout Spain’s history, playing cards have been used as propaganda tools in conflicts such as the Spanish War of Independence, the Carlist Wars and the Spanish Civil War. In these special editions, traditional court cards were replaced with leaders, symbols or political messages to spread ideologies during play.

Cards that take sides

The idea was simple: if everyone plays cards, why not slip in a message? Reyes (kings) could become generals and sotas (jacks) could become soldiers, with coats of arms and slogans replacing the classic designs.

During the Spanish Civil War

Both sides produced their own packs, featuring their symbols and messages. A shortage of paper and factories also meant that very simple packs had to be improvised. We explore this in playing cards during the Spanish Civil War.

Other periods

There were also satirical packs that mocked rulers, and others that were banned because of their content. We look at these in banned and censored playing cards. Today, they are collectors’ items and historical documents that reveal what life was like in each period.

At Lascuarenta

Our packs are just for playing: no politics, just lovely cards and great games.