Manifesto of Alfonso XIII: Reasons for Abdication & Exile
Manifesto of Alfonso XIII: A King’s Farewell
Context and Background
This document analyzes the farewell speech (Manifesto) of Alfonso XIII, King of Spain from 1902 to 1931, published in the ABC newspaper in Madrid on April 17, 1931. Alfonso XIII, son of Alfonso XII and Maria Cristina of Habsburg-Lorraine, ruled during a period of decline for the Restoration system in Spain.
Political and Social Crisis
His reign was marked by political and social tensions. The oligarchy and a despotic political system led to widespread discontent. The Disaster of Annual (1921), partly caused by the King’s intervention in politics, further weakened the regime. Primo de Rivera’s coup in 1923 aimed to restore order but ultimately failed, dragging the monarchy down with it.
The Rise of Republicanism
The municipal elections of April 12, 1931, saw a resounding victory for Republicans in major cities. The public’s jubilant reaction forced Alfonso XIII to leave the country, effectively surrendering his power. While not a formal abdication, he never returned to Spain, dying in exile in 1941.
Reasons for Abdication and Exile
Alfonso XIII justified his departure by citing a lack of popular support and fear of a civil war. The Spanish population associated him with the unpopular Primo de Rivera regime. Despite attempts to restore the constitutional monarchy, the King’s support had dwindled. The Pact of San Sebastián, which framed the municipal elections as a referendum on the monarchy, demonstrated the widespread opposition.
Acknowledging Mistakes, Defending Actions
Alfonso XIII acknowledged some mistakes but maintained that he always acted in the public’s best interest, even during crises like the Tragic Week of 1909, the crisis of 1917, and the Disaster of Annual. However, his actions often sided with the oligarchy, maintaining the existing social order at the expense of popular demands.
Departure and Legacy
The King chose to leave rather than resort to force against the people. He recognized national sovereignty, stating that Spain was “the sole mistress of their destiny.” On April 14, 1931, Niceto Alcalá Zamora proclaimed the Second Spanish Republic, forming a provisional government. The new government faced opposition from monarchists, the military, the economic elite, and the Church.
The Path to Restoration
Alfonso XIII hoped to return with renewed popular support, but this never materialized. The monarchy was eventually restored in 1975 under his grandson, Juan Carlos I, after the death of Francisco Franco. Juan Carlos I played a key role in Spain’s transition to democracy.