Crisis and War in Spain: Charles IV to Independence
1. Crisis During Charles IV’s Reign (1788-1808)
The Monarchy of Charles IV
Charles IV delegated power to Manuel Godoy, reflecting distrust within the court. Following the execution of Louis XVI, Charles IV declared war on France. Defeated, Spain signed the Peace of Basel, allying with France. This led to conflict with Great Britain, culminating in the Battle of Trafalgar, where Spain lost most of its fleet.
The Mutiny of Aranjuez
Godoy signed the Treaty of Fontainebleau with Napoleon, allowing French troops into Spain to attack Portugal. This sparked the Mutiny of Aranjuez on March 18, 1808, led by nobles and clergy, forcing Charles IV to abdicate in favor of his son, Ferdinand VII.
Joseph Bonaparte’s Monarchy
Napoleon summoned Charles IV and Ferdinand VII to Bayonne, where they abdicated. Napoleon appointed his brother, Joseph Bonaparte, as King of Spain. Joseph attempted to dismantle the Old Regime, abolishing noble privileges and seizing Church lands. However, his reforms faced opposition due to his foreign origins and reliance on military power.
2. War of Independence (1808-1814)
Popular Uprising and Formation of Juntas
On May 2, 1808, Madrid revolted against the French. Defense juntas emerged, supporting Ferdinand VII and declaring war on Napoleon. The Supreme Central Junta, formed in Aranjuez, acted as a provisional government in the king’s absence.
Resistance: Sieges and Guerrilla Warfare
Spanish cities resisted the French army, but the main resistance came from guerrilla fighters. These small groups, composed of farmers, artisans, and clergy, used surprise tactics to disrupt French operations.
In 1812, Napoleon’s campaign in Russia weakened his forces in Spain. Spanish troops, aided by guerrillas and the British army led by Wellington, forced the French withdrawal, leading to Ferdinand VII’s return under the Treaty of Valençay.
Social Attitudes
The French invasion divided Spanish society:
- Afrancesados: Collaborated with Joseph Bonaparte, believing in reform under his rule.
- Patriotic Front: Opposed the invasion, with varying stances:
- Absolutists: Sought the return of Ferdinand VII and absolute monarchy.
- Liberals: Advocated for separation of powers, national sovereignty, and abolition of privileges.
- Reformists: Hoped Ferdinand VII would modernize the country within the existing system.