Spain: Moderate and Progressive Rule (1856-1868)
The Liberal Union (1856-1863)
Return of Moderates
Following the dismantling of the previous government’s policies, O’Donnell was dismissed, and Narvaez returned to power. Narvaez’s government aimed to restore a more conservative and authoritarian approach. Key measures included the Public Instruction Act, which regulated education and granted the Church inspection rights. This period saw the completion of major public works like the Ebro Canal and the Isabel II Canal, along with communication improvements. However, a subsistence crisis in 1857 exacerbated social conflicts, leading to Narvaez’s resignation in October. After some hesitation, the Queen recalled O’Donnell.
O’Donnell’s Long Government
O’Donnell’s government enjoyed four and a half years of stability, distancing itself from political extremes. This era witnessed significant economic and technical advancements. In foreign policy, O’Donnell focused on interventions in Africa, Mexico, Peru, and the return of Santo Domingo to the Spanish crown. Important laws were passed, shaping a new administrative system and contributing to the growth of public administration.
Liberalism in Crisis (1863-1868)
Narvaez’s Return and Instability
The “government crisis” of March 1863 ushered in a year and a half of unstable and ineffective governments. Isabella II turned once again to Narvaez. For the sixth time in as many years, he failed to achieve his dual goals: alternating power between Moderates and Unionists, and integrating the Progressives into the political game. The Progressives, meanwhile, drew closer to the Democrats. An economic crisis accelerated the decline of the Isabelline regime. Several other problems arose:
- Spanish attitudes towards the Roman Question, fueled by the unification of Italy and the Pope’s rejection of Rome, led to a confrontation with Italy.
- The Queen’s reputation suffered, particularly due to criticism of her personal conduct. An article by Emilio Castelar criticizing the Queen for not relinquishing her assets to alleviate public debt led to Castelar’s dismissal from his teaching position, sparking the Night of Saint Daniel protests.
- General Prim led a revolt against the government, with Isabella II suspected of conspiring from abroad.
- A military coup occurred at the San Gil barracks, resulting in numerous executions.
The Pact of Ostend between the Progressives and Democrats aimed to vacate the throne after Isabella II’s reign, creating a broad Liberal Union. The Queen, in response, entrusted the government to Narvaez, who died in 1868. O’Donnell had passed away a few months earlier, marking the end of Isabella II’s reign.
Economic Crisis and the September Revolution
The economic crisis of 1866 affected all sectors, with the working class benefiting little from mature capitalism. This crisis was compounded by a subsistence crisis that impacted the most vulnerable and provoked popular uprisings. Admiral Juan Bautista Topete revolted in Cadiz, his slogan “Long Live Spain with Honor” becoming a symbol of the September 1868 revolution, known as “La Gloriosa.” These events forced the Queen into exile, ending her reign.