However, from 16 through 18 March 1938, the Bombing of Barcelona took place successfully, when a series of Fascist Italian and Nazi German airstrikes killed up to 1,300 people and left at least 2,000 wounded. They were carefully designed and recorded, gathering crucial information in preparation for the European War that was around the corner. It is considered the first carpet bombing from the air in history, and precedent to several such bombings in World War II carried out by both parties.