Liberal State in Spain: Isabel II to Alfonso XIII
The Liberal State in Spain
6.3 Implementation of the Liberal State
The Reign of Isabel II (1833-1868)
During Isabel’s minority, her mother acted as regent. This period was marked by civil war between the Liberals (supporting Isabel II) and the Absolutists (supporting Carlos). The defeat of the Carlists led to the introduction of a liberal political system in Spain.
In 1843, Isabel reached the age of majority. Her reign (1843-1868) was characterized by political instability.
Three major periods are distinguished:
- The Moderate Decade (1844-1854)
- The Progressive Biennium (1854-1856)
- The Collapse of the Elizabethan Monarchy (1856-1868)
The Revolutionary Six Years (1868-1874)
In 1866, Democrats and Liberals signed the Pact of Ostend, aiming to overthrow the queen and convene a constituent assembly. The revolution triumphed in 1868, leading to the queen’s abdication. A provisional government was formed.
Between 1869 and 1874, two very different forms of state emerged:
- The Democratic Monarchy (1871-1873): An Italian king faced political opposition from Republicans and Carlists. He abdicated in 1873, leading to the republic.
- The First Republic (1873-1874): The Constitution of 1873, establishing a federal and decentralized state, was drafted but not enacted. The Republican government faced a Carlist War.
8.2 Crisis of the Liberal State. Alfonso XIII’s Reign (1902-1931)
Alfonso’s reign entered a crisis in 1917, culminating in a military dictatorship and the fall of the monarchy.
Maintaining the Party System (1902-1917)
The system of alternating parties continued between 1902 and 1917 under two new leaders. They attempted political regeneration to end caciquismo, but without success.
The Tragic Week of Barcelona (1909), caused by the mobilization of reservists, was the most prominent internal problem, leading to a rupture with the Liberals in power.
The Decomposition of the System
Between 1917 and 1923, problems intensified, marking the end of the Restoration system.
The Crisis of 1917
- Military Crisis: Originated from the army’s demands for higher wages and promotions based on seniority.
- Political Crisis: An assembly of parliamentarians, mainly from Catalonia, demanded a new constitution.
- Social Crisis: Triggered by a call for a general strike.
The Exacerbation of Problems (1919-1923)
Between 1919 and 1923, the situation worsened, with coalition governments and increasing social unrest. In this context, General Primo de Rivera staged a coup in 1923, ending the Restoration system.
Dictatorship of Primo de Rivera (1923-1930)
- 1st Phase (1923-1925): The government was in the hands of a military directory, which suspended the 1876 Constitution.
- 2nd Phase (1925-1930): Primo de Rivera formed a civil directory, promoting irrigated agriculture and industry (with difficulty). He resigned in 1930.
8.5 Population, Economy, and Society
The Population: Evolution and Migration
Population growth accelerated in the 20th century due to the demographic transition, with declining birth and mortality rates. Population movements intensified.
Economic Change
Agriculture continued to employ the majority of the population. Industry introduced mass production during the Second Industrial Revolution. The tertiary sector (e.g., road construction) also grew.