Primo de Rivera’s Dictatorship: A Concise Analysis
On September 13, 1923, Miguel Primo de Rivera published a manifesto proposing the establishment of a military board to save the country. King Alfonso XIII saw this as a solution to Spain’s problems and appointed him Chairman of the Board of Ministers. This led to the removal of constitutional institutions and the suspension of political parties and unions. The state of war was declared, giving the military command to the military. The Restoration regime was replaced by a dictatorship.
Military Directory:
Initially, the manifesto stated that this situation would be temporary, to end the country’s problems. Therefore, the coup was well received. It resulted in a social situation more calmly and without terrorism. The caciquismo also disappeared. This period also marked the end of the war in Morocco, as this issue was a priority for Primo de Rivera. He took personal responsibility for the conflict and tried to finish it, but was hampered by the limited capacity of the Spanish troops and the strength of Abd-el-Krim. The landing in Alhucemas Bay in ’25 allowed the conquest of territory and the end of the war.
Civil Directory:
The economy was helped by growing protectionism, a good international situation, and the support of the Patriotic Union. Primo founded the Patriotic Union to institutionalize the dictatorship. Against this, the opposition was formed by anarchists, liberals, communists, nationalists, and some intellectuals. In ’25, Primo was replaced by a civilian Military Directory, with men and Calvo Sotelo.
Policy:
Establishing a National Consultative Assembly. Company: Created the Corporate Labour Organization and the joint committees. Economy: development of a public works plan improved roads. Monopolies were created as CAMPSA, Iberia and Telefónica. Problems: The opposition to the dictatorship was growing. On the one hand, there was a liberal coup attempt. Secondly, the discontent of Artillery for promotion on merit. They founded groups like the Republican Alliance or Foundation Ibérica. The economic situation was unstable, Calvo Sotelo resigned.
Soft Dictatorship:
This period starts when Alf. XVIII appointed Dámaso Berenguer as president, with a mission to restore constitutional normality. But economic and social problems increased. The monarchist parties such as Alcalá-Zamora and Maura and Gamazo favored the republic signed the Pact S. Sebastian with the republican left and regionalist. The aim was to establish an Executive Committee chaired by Republican Alcala Zamora. The Jaca garrison revolted anticipating the plans of the Committee, being responsible shot and imprisoned members of the Committee. Berenguer announced the call for legislative elections. The parties declined to participate and thus resigned Berenguer. Alf. XIII formed a government. Within hours, the Republic was established without much trouble being accepted by the people and the king, who marched his way to exile.