The American Friends of Spanish Democracy (originally called Friends of Spanish Democracy) was founded in New York City in 1936 by a group of clergymen and intellectuals under the leadership of Roger Baldwin, a member of the executive committee, and Bishop Robert L. Paddock, the chairman. John Dewey was named vice-chairman but his role appears to have been largely honorific. The objective of the organization was to arouse support for the Loyalist government during the Spanish Civil War. By organizing public appeals, petitions and letters of protest and by disseminating information on the situation in Spain, it hoped to counteract the effects of fascist propaganda and bring pressure on the U.S. President and Congress to end the arms embargo against Spain. It also raised funds for medical aid and refugee relief which were distributed by the North American Committee to Aid Spanish Democracy. By decision of its executive committee the organization was dissolved in 1939.