Hello.

This is a very interesting question about one of the most interesting conflicts of the XXth century.

First of all, it may seem dumb but it isn't, we have to take into account the geographical aspect. The french-spanish border is actually quite large, and the only border besides the one with Portugal. So that would mean that the French Army could roll into battle easier and faster than any other nation.

Secondly, both France and Spain had elections in early 1936. In Spain, the elections took place in February, and led to the victory of the Frente Popular (Popular Front), a left-wing coalition headed by Socialists and Republicans. In France on the other hand, the elections took place in May, and led to the victory of the Front Populaire (Popular Front). As you can clearly see, both countries had new governments which had a very similar strategy. It is also crucial to say that one of the pillars of these movements was a very vicious antifascism. So we can understand why the Republicans expected the French to help them against a fascist aggression.

Third, and lastly, France was one of the most powerful nations on earth, both diplomatically and militarily, and having it on their side was definitely a game-changer.

So yes, the Spanish Republic did ask for help to their french counterpart and it was vital to them. But sadly to them, France abided by the non-intervention pact and did not send a military intervention to Spain. The USSR on the other hand did partially help the Spanish Republic, sending and lending warplanes, tanks, weapons and supplies and very capable military advisors.

I hope this answered your question. If you want to go further on your readings, I highly recommend Professor Preston's works on the Spanish Civil War, where he goes onto the international aspects during some chapters.