In 1937, Miguel Hernández published 'Viento del pueblo' (Wind of the People), a collection of poetry that became one of the defining works of the Spanish Civil War. The collection, which was written in the heat of the conflict, combined traditional forms with revolutionary content, celebrating the courage of the Republican soldiers and calling for the defense of the Republic. The poems were widely circulated among the troops and became anthems of the Republican cause.

Hernández's collection was a landmark in Spanish poetry, establishing him as the voice of the Republican rank and file. The poems, which were often recited at political rallies and in the trenches, had a profound impact on the morale of the troops. 'Viento del pueblo' also secured Hernández's place as one of the greatest poets of the 20th century, and his work continued to inspire poets long after his death.