Restoration Crisis (1898-1931): Dynastic Reformism & Failure
The Crisis of the Restoration (1898-1931)
1. Dynastic Reformism
1.1. The Failure of the First Regenerationist Government
Following the disaster of 1898, Queen Regent Maria Cristina, widow of Alfonso XII, formed a government with the conservative Francisco Silvela. Silvela aimed to implement reforms, including figures like General Camilo Polavieja and Catalan regenerationist Manuel Duran i Bas in his government. A process of administrative decentralization and financial reform, including new taxes, was initiated.
These new taxes sparked strong protests in Catalonia, with many traders refusing to pay. The government sent a message to the mayor of Barcelona, Dr. Bartomeu Robert, demanding enforcement. Dr. Robert refused and resigned, leading to a general strike of traders throughout Catalonia.
The central government responded by deploying the army and declaring a state of war in Catalonia, suspending laws and granting the military control. Polavieja and Duran i Bas disagreed with the government’s decision and resigned. This rupture between the Catalan bourgeoisie and the dynastic parties led to the emergence of Catalan alternatives.
2. Reform Under Maura and Canalejas
Alfonso XIII assumed the throne in 1902, coinciding with a shift in dynastic party leaders. In 1903, Antonio Maura replaced Cánovas del Castillo as leader of the Conservative Party, while José Canalejas succeeded Sagasta.
Both Maura and Canalejas were influenced by regenerationist ideas and initiated reforms, but full democratization remained elusive due to corruption and power struggles.
Conservative Party: Antonio Maura’s Revolution from Above
Antonio Maura’s political project, known as the “revolution from above,” aimed to engage the middle classes in politics. He sought to counter caciquismo (political bossism) and limit the power of the popular classes. The Electoral Act of 1907 aimed to curb electoral fraud but had limited success. Conservatives also sought closer ties with the Catalan Regionalist League.
Maura’s government also initiated reforms to local administration and implemented social measures, including:
- The Law of Sunday Rest (Sunday holiday)
- The creation of the National Forecast Institute (social security for workers)
- The Law of Internal Colonization to develop agriculture
However, the government’s handling of public order, particularly during the Tragic Week in Barcelona, led to strong criticism and Maura’s eventual deposition by the King.
Liberal Party: Canalejas’ Approach to the Popular Classes
José Canalejas, leading the Liberal Party in 1910, sought to appeal to the popular classes.