Spain’s 1868 Revolution: Causes, Events, and Democratic Shift
Causes of the Revolution
- Financial Crisis: The railroad’s failure to generate expected profits, coupled with Spain’s weak industrialization, led to a public debt crisis. Banks were unable to recover loans, triggering an industrial crisis.
- Industrial Crisis: The American Civil War caused a cotton shortage in Catalonia’s textile industry. Rising cotton prices forced many small businesses to close.
- Subsistence Crisis: A wheat shortage increased prices, leading to hunger. Combined with the industrial crisis, this sparked protests and violence among peasants and workers.
- Political Crisis: Dissatisfaction with Queen Isabel II’s regime grew due to:
- Demands for protection from investors and industrialists.
- Widespread poverty among workers and peasants.
- Authoritarian actions by government leaders.
- Political parties (Liberals, Democrats, and Unionists) excluded from power signed the Pact of Ostend to overthrow the monarchy.
The Glorious Revolution (1868)
Key Players and Supporters
- Political parties opposed to the regime (Pact of Ostend).
- Financiers and industrialists affected by the economic crisis.
- Landowners seeking social order.
- Workers and peasants desiring improved conditions.
Events
The revolution began in Cádiz with Admiral Topete’s pronouncement against Isabel II’s government, supported by Prim (Progressive leader) and Serrano (Unionist leader). Revolutionary juntas formed, demanding constitutional reforms and individual rights. Serrano defeated Isabel II’s troops at Alcolea, leading to her exile in France.
Significance
The revolution marked the triumph of democratic liberalism, introducing national sovereignty, universal suffrage, and individual rights.
Stages of Democratic Transition
1. The Provisional Government
Serrano formed a provisional government, dissolving revolutionary juntas and militias. Elections were called for a Constituent Assembly, resulting in a majority for Unionists, Progressives, and Democrats. Serrano became head of government.
Political Forces
- Carlists: Undemocratic, strong in the Basque Country and Navarre.
- Moderates: Supported the return of the Bourbons with Alfonso, Isabel II’s son, led by Cánovas del Castillo.
- Unionists, Progressives, and Democrats: Advocated for a democratic monarchy, led by Prim.
- Federal Republicans: Desired a regime change.
The Constituent Assembly drafted the 1869 Constitution, Spain’s first democratic constitution, establishing:
- National sovereignty and universal male suffrage (over 25).
- A limited democratic monarchy.
- Separation of powers (legislative, executive, judicial).
- Individual rights, including freedom of expression, association, and religion.
- A bicameral parliament.
Challenges
- Unresolved land issues in Andalusia.
- Independence movements in Cuba and Puerto Rico.
2. The Regency of Serrano
Serrano was appointed regent, and Prim formed a government. Attempts were made to unite all parties.
Challenges
Social unrest and revolts hindered policy development.
Achievements
Public order was maintained, and banditry was suppressed.
The New King
Prim sought a new king, eventually finding Amadeo of Savoy, who accepted the throne amidst a period of instability.