Ferdinand VII’s Reign: Absolutism, Liberalism, and Crisis in Spain

Posted on Nov 23, 2024 in History

Reign of Ferdinand VII (1814-1833)

Ferdinand VII’s reign was marked by political repression, economic crisis, and military uprisings. It can be divided into three main stages:

1. Restoration of Absolutism (1814-1820)

Following the Treaty of Valençay in December 1813, Ferdinand VII returned to Spain in March 1814. He promptly annulled the liberal Constitution of 1812, marking the beginning of an absolutist regime. Key events include:

  • The Manifesto of the Persians, supporting the king’s absolute power.
  • The Royal Decree of May 4, 1814, restoring absolutism.
  • Military uprisings (Espoz y Mina, Díaz Porlier, Lacy) were suppressed.
  • Re-establishment of the old regime’s tax system and feudal lordships.
  • Return of confiscated properties to the Church.
  • Severe economic and social crisis due to war destruction, loss of colonies, and failed reforms.

2. The Liberal Triennium (1820-1823)

General Riego’s revolt in 1820 led to the reinstatement of the 1812 Constitution. Ferdinand VII, under pressure, became a constitutional monarch. However, he conspired to restore absolutism. Key aspects:

  • Proclamation of the Constitution of 1812.
  • Rise of patriotic societies advocating for liberalism.
  • Formation of two factions in the Cortes (Parliament): Moderados (moderates) and Exaltados (radicals, later known as progressives).
  • Moderate government’s attempts at reform faced opposition from absolutists.
  • The Holy Alliance intervened in 1823 with the army known as the Hundred Thousand Sons of St. Louis, restoring Ferdinand VII’s absolute power.

3. The Ominous Decade (1823-1833)

The return of absolutism led to repression of liberals, exile, and the suppression of freedoms. Key events:

  • Exile of liberals, mainly to London.
  • Abolition of the Inquisition, replaced by Boards of Faith.
  • Censorship and closure of newspapers, libraries, and universities.
  • Despite the repression, some economic reforms were attempted: new roads, industrial exhibition in Barcelona, foundation of the Bonaplata factory, and the Bank of San Fernando.
  • Martín de Garay’s fiscal policy acknowledged the failure of reformism.
  • Opposition from ultra-conservative factions (Malcontents in Catalonia) was suppressed by the army.
  • Succession problem and the impact of European revolutions of 1830.