Spain’s Democratic Sexenio: From Revolution to Republic (1868-1874)
The Six-Year Revolution (1868-1874)
The Glorious Revolution: Amidst social unrest caused by poor harvests, economic struggles in industry and finance, and widespread political dissatisfaction with Isabel II’s government, a revolution ignited in September 1868. Driven by the desire to overthrow a system benefiting only the wealthy and powerful, various political factions united under the banners of “Down with the Bourbons” and “Long Live Spain with Honor.” The revolution’s triumph led to Isabel II’s exile and the formation of a provisional government led by Serrano, comprised of progressives, moderate unionists, and democrats.
This new government initiated political and economic reforms and convened a Constituent Assembly elected by universal suffrage to determine Spain’s future political model. The elections resulted in a resounding victory for monarchists, paving the way for a democratic monarchy. A new constitution, based on the principles of democratic liberalism, was promulgated in 1869.
The 1869 Constitution
- National Sovereignty
- Parliamentary Monarchy
- Recognition of democratic rights: thought, assembly, association, and religious freedom.
- Legislative power: Courts (Senate and Congress)
- Executive power: Prime Minister and Government
- Judicial power: Courts
With the constitution established and a parliamentary monarchy in place, the search for a new king began, as Isabel II remained exiled in France. Serrano served as regent, and General Prim became head of government. Meanwhile, Cánovas del Castillo founded the Alfonsist party to protect the rights of the future King Alfonso XII. Carlists renewed their conflict, advocating for Don Carlos as king, while Republicans championed a republican system.
Amadeo I of Spain
In 1870, with Prim’s support, Amadeo of Savoy was crowned King of Spain. However, upon arrival, Prim was assassinated, leaving Amadeo without crucial political backing against aristocratic factions and the growing Alfonsist party. Amadeo’s attempts to maintain the monarchy were thwarted by opposition from Carlists, federal Republicans, and the labor movement, ultimately forcing his abdication in 1873. This led to the proclamation of the First Spanish Republic.
The First Republic (1873-1874)
Estanislao Figueras was appointed president of the republic. His primary task was to draft a new constitution, a goal left unachieved due to significant challenges: a depleted treasury, Carlist Wars in the north, the looming independence of Cuba, and a conservative-leaning army.
Despite these obstacles, some measures were implemented:
- A broad amnesty
- Abolition of slavery in Puerto Rico
- Elimination of the “quinto” (conscription)
Lacking widespread support, the republic faced further division. Federal Republicans gained control of the courts, establishing the Federal Democratic Republic with Pi i Margall as president. Disagreements arose regarding the organization of a federal Spain:
- Compromisers advocated for establishing social order before implementing a federal republic from the top down.
- Intransigents argued for building the federation from the bottom up.
Both groups presented their proposals to the courts, but the intransigents’ plan was rejected, leading to their withdrawal and sparking the Cantonal Revolution, beginning in Cartagena and spreading throughout eastern and southern Spain. These revolutions were not secessionist but aimed to empower regions and dismantle centralism.
The compromisers attempted to enact a new constitution, but the Cantonalist Revolution forced Pi i Margall’s resignation. Salmerón succeeded him, adopting a more moderate approach and using military force to restore order and suppress labor movements. This moderate trend continued under Emilio Castelar, who, like Salmerón, focused on restoring order in Cuba and the north with the army’s assistance.
Left-wing deputies attempted to steer the republic back towards the left, but General Pavia’s coup dissolved the courts, bringing an end to the First Republic.