Spain’s 19th-Century Political Turmoil: Monarchy, Republic, and Instability
Reign of Amadeo I of Savoy
Amadeo I reigned in Spain as a constitutional monarch, but his rule was marked by persistent instability. After Prim’s death, the progressive movement splintered into radicals and constitutionalists. This division led to frequent government changes, with three elections and six different governments.
Problems during Amadeo I’s Reign
- The King’s unpopularity due to his foreign origin.
- Fear of social revolution led to the outlawing of courts.
- Opposition from:
- Republicans who rejected monarchy.
- Alfonsinos who sought the return of the Bourbons.
- Carlists whose uprising triggered the Third Carlist War.
- The Church, which opposed freedom of worship and the separation of church and state.
- The ongoing war with Cuba.
Amadeo I’s Abdication
Amidst this turmoil, a conflict arose between Mayor Ruiz Zorrilla and the army. Amadeo I seized this opportunity to abdicate and return to Italy. The House and Senate convened a National Assembly and proclaimed the First Republic.
The First Republic (1873-1874)
The First Republic’s establishment was considered illegal as it didn’t adhere to constitutional provisions. Eleven months saw four presidents—Figueras, Pi y Margal, Salmerón, and Castelar—divided between Unitarian and Federalist ideologies.
The Unitarian Republic
Figueras advocated for a unitary republic and aimed to maintain order, but encountered obstacles in implementing his program. In June 1873, the Constituent Cortes proclaimed the Federal Republic.
The Federal Republic
Following Figueras’ resignation, Pi y Margal assumed power. The courts drafted a federal constitution, notable for:
- Separation of church and state without subsidies.
- Division of the country into 17 federal states.
- A bicameral legislature with the Senate representing the states.
- Extensive legislation for worker protection.
Some Republicans promoted cantonalism, leading to uprisings. These forced Pi y Margal’s resignation. Salmerón replaced him, suppressed the uprisings, then resigned himself. Castelar was subsequently elected president.
Stages of the Democratic Presidential Term
The Provisional Government
The revolutionary board tasked Serrano with forming a provisional government to implement new ideas. This government dissolved the revolutionary boards and militias due to their excessive influence, and abolished conscription. Elections were called for a Constituent Assembly, resulting in a Unionist, Progressive, and Democrat majority who appointed Serrano as head of government.
The key political forces were:
- Carlists: Undemocratic, with strength in Basque Country and Navarre.
- Moderates: Supported the Bourbon restoration under Alfonso, son of Isabella II. Led by Cánovas del Castillo.
- Unionists, Progressives, and Democrats: Advocated a parliamentary monarchy. Led by Prim.
- Federal Republicans: Sought regime change.
The new Cortes drafted the 1869 Constitution, Spain’s first democratic constitution. Key principles included national sovereignty, universal male suffrage (over 25), a limited monarchy, separation of powers, individual rights, a bicameral legislature, and freedoms of expression, association, and religion. The government also addressed financial issues.
Unresolved Problems
- Land issues in Andalusia, sparking movements for land redistribution.
- Independence movements in Cuba and Puerto Rico.
The Regency of Serrano
Serrano became president and tasked Prim with forming a government. Prim attempted to unite all parties under a single program.
Problems
Revolts and social movements hindered policy development.
Accomplishments
The government maintained order by suppressing banditry.
The New King
Prim searched for a new king, a difficult task in a period of anarchy. After multiple rejections, Amadeo accepted the throne.