Spain’s Second Republic: Reforms and Conflicts
Spain’s Second Republic: Key Reforms and Conflicts
Catalan, Basque, and Galician Autonomy
Catalan autonomy began with the approval of its statute in 1932. Francesc Macià became President of the Generalitat, and Lluís Companys, President of the Parliament. Upon Macià’s death in 1933, Companys succeeded him.
Basque autonomy faced opposition from Basque nationalism and Catholic groups. Despite efforts by the PNV, the statute failed adoption in all provinces and was rejected by Navarra. The process was revived after the Popular Front’s 1936 victory.
Galician autonomy, despite municipal approval in 1932, wasn’t achieved until 1936. However, the outbreak of war prevented its implementation.
Dissolution of the Society of Jesus
Articles 26 and 27 of the Constitution addressed the Church’s status. One measure was the 1932 dissolution of the Society of Jesus and confiscation of its properties. The Jesuits’ educational influence, perceived wealth, and economic power were cited as reasons. They ran prominent engineering schools and held stakes in various businesses.
Article 26 and regulations on religious orders aimed to create a secular school system. Municipalities provided sites and financial aid for school construction, with the central government contributing to costs and teacher salaries. However, this rapid construction pace slowed after 1932.
Modernization of the Army
Prime Minister Azaña extended military reforms, including the Retirement Act. This act forced the retirement of generals without appointments for six months, affecting about 40% of generals. This aimed to remove those hostile to the Republic.
Public order policy shifted from reliance on the Civil Guard. Its leader, General José Sanjurjo, was a key figure in Primo de Rivera’s coup. Republican leaders sought milder methods, creating the Assault Guards, intended to be unarmed. However, this proved challenging, particularly in Catalonia.
Agrarian Reform
Agrarian reform aimed to improve productivity and redistribute land concentrated in the hands of a few. The 1932 Agrarian Reform Act, passed after General Sanjurjo’s failed revolt, authorized expropriation of land from the nobility. However, it proved unsatisfactory, with only a small number of families receiving land in two years. Hydraulic policies continued, with reservoirs built in the Guadalquivir and a project initiated that was later interrupted by war.
Anarchosyndicalism and Repression
Anarchosyndicalism led to strikes and land occupations, met with government repression. This tarnished Azaña’s image and fueled anti-Republic propaganda. The 1933 uprising of the Iberian Anarchist Federation saw success in parts of Andalusia, including Casas Viejas. Peasants, disillusioned with land reform, proclaimed libertarian communism. Clashes with Assault Guards resulted in the deaths of several peasants.