Demographic Shifts and Sociopolitical Changes in Spain (1800-1930)
Demographic Evolution of Spain, 1800-1930
The characteristics of the Spanish population trends for the period are as follows: in the nineteenth century, slow growth due to a high mortality rate (poor hygiene, low agricultural production, endemic diseases), resulting in a short life expectancy. This began to change around 1885, with mortality rates steadily falling to below 29% by the end of the century (a phase of demographic transition). The birth rate was moderate compared to other European countries undergoing a demographic transition. In the early twentieth century, both mortality and birth rates fell simultaneously, but mortality declined faster, leading to the highest growth rate in Europe (comparable to some developing countries today). Catalonia was the exception, with an advanced demographic transition.
Migratory movements were insignificant until the late nineteenth century due to anti-emigration laws, economic stagnation, agricultural protectionism, and currency fluctuations. From the late nineteenth century until World War I, which marked a break, there was a peak of migration abroad, especially to the Caribbean and northern South America from the mainland and the Canary Islands. Internal migration increased, accentuating the population distribution pattern that continues today: depopulation in the peninsula’s interior and concentration in the north and Mediterranean regions, rising from World War I and the dictatorship of Primo de Rivera.
The Crisis of 1917
World War I (1914-1918) exacerbated Spain’s existing problems. Spain remained neutral, initially benefiting economically by supplying goods to warring countries. This boosted industrialization, brought in foreign capital, and led to increased exports and inflation. Higher wages were implemented to address rising prices, creating an inflationary spiral. When exports ceased (due to U.S. entry into the war), massive layoffs occurred, but prices remained high to sustain profits. This caused labor unrest, influenced by the Russian Revolution. Simultaneously, two other problems emerged: military discontent stemming from the 1906 Law of Jurisdictions and promotion systems related to the War of Morocco, leading to the formation of illegal military unions (Juntas de Defensa). The government attempted to dissolve these unions. Political opposition grew, with Republicans and some Socialists forming an assembly government (Lliga), aiming for political change with the support of soldiers and workers. They met in Barcelona (Parliamentary Assembly) to push for these changes, supported by a general strike committee. The government resolved the crisis by conceding to the military’s demands in exchange for their support. The Assembly failed, and the general strike collapsed due to disunity and military support for the government. The government seemingly controlled the situation but had not solved any underlying problems and had aggravated others (particularly regarding military influence).
The Roman Conquest and Romanization of the Iberian Peninsula
The conquest of the Iberian Peninsula occurred in stages between 218 BC (start of Roman intervention during the Punic Wars) and 19 BC (conquest of northern Spain). The stages were: 1) Roman victory over Carthage (control of the Mediterranean); 2) Submission of inland peoples (conquest of Aragon and the northern and southern plateaus); 3) Civil wars in Rome (leading to the conquest of Galicia); 4) Subjugation of northern peoples. Roman rule lasted until the empire’s collapse in the late 5th century AD.
Romanization followed, a historical process where the indigenous population of Hispania assimilated Roman lifestyles. Key aspects included:
- Economy: Exploitation of resources like metals (gold and silver), slaves (used in mines and estates), and agricultural resources (Mediterranean triad: wheat, vines, olives). Romans introduced the plow, irrigation, crafts, salting, ceramics, coinage, and a road network to stimulate trade.
- Society: Introduction of a citizen status hierarchy. At the top were senators and gentlemen, wealthy individuals and provincial magistrates. Then came the local aristocracy and rich businessmen/local magistrates. Below them were free workers, peasants, soldiers, etc., and slaves on farms and mines.
- Administration: Creation of an urban civilization, with new cities as centers of administrative management, political power, and social life. Provinces were above cities, and from the first century, conventus served as provincial subdivisions.
- Culture: Gradual introduction of Latin (the basis of Romance languages), with Basque surviving. Roman law became the foundation of modern law. Literary contributions included figures like Seneca. Religious tolerance existed, with indigenous cults coexisting with Roman ones (Christianity was later imposed by Emperor Theodosius).