The unit was created in April 1937 from the old Ascaso Column, commanded by the anarchist Gregorio Jover.

[1][2] The new 28th Division, in addition to the forces coming from the «Ascaso» column, had also absorbed the remains of other militia forces and became composed of 125th, 126th and 127th mixed brigades; continued under Jover's command.

During the subsequent offensive on the Aragon front, the unit undertook several withdrawals in the face of enemy pressure.

It took part in the Levante Offensive integrated in the 13th Army Corps,[5] being later transferred to the Estremadura front, where it participated in the Battle of Merida pocket.

[6] In January 1939, the unit participated in the Battle of Valsequillo, integrated into the Toral Group.