Spain’s Second Republic: Reform and Reaction (1931-1936)
The Reformist Biennium (1931-1933)
From April 14, 1931, to November 19, 1933, the government of the Second Spanish Republic was primarily led by centrist and left-republican coalitions.
Elections were called for June 28, 1931, marking the beginning of significant reforms. Key initiatives focused on improving education, addressing rural issues, modernizing the army, and redefining relations with the Church.
Key Reforms and Initiatives
- Agrarian Reform: Aimed at distributing land, especially arable land,
Spanish Restoration System: Crisis and Collapse
CRISIS AND COLLAPSE OF THE RESTORATION SYSTEM:
- There were major movements in the regeneration of the system. The failure of Canalejas and Maura ushered in an era of instability and uncertainty, which had its peak in the triple crisis of 1917 and the military coup of 1923.
- The governments of these years were not ideal. Executive powers seemed weak and almost always overwhelmed by the initiative of problems. Their duration was short, averaging 9 months.
The First World War and Increased Social Conflict:
Read MoreWorld War II: Origins, Global Impact, and Lasting Consequences
World War II: Origins and Global Expansion
On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland. This time, Britain and France did not yield, declaring war on Germany two days later, thus initiating the Second World War.
Affected by the economic crisis, Japan embarked on an expansionist policy towards neighboring China. It militarily occupied Manchuria in 1931 and, in 1932, announced the formation of a puppet state. Between 1932 and 1937, Japan sought to conquer China and expand throughout Southeast Asia.
Read MoreSpain’s Democratic Transformation: From Dictatorship to Freedom
Spain’s Democratic Transformation
The Franco Regime’s Final Years
Franco ruled Spain as a dictator until his death, presiding over a country that was slowly recovering until an economic development surge in the 1960s. Without altering its authoritarian regime, Spain attempted to adapt to international developments to gain recognition from other nations and ensure its internal stability. During the so-called “economic miracle,” popular mobilization demanding freedoms grew, while the regime offered
Read MoreKey Terms in Modern History and Global Affairs
Key Terms: Post-War Spain & Transition
- Nacionalcatolicismo: The alliance between the Francoist regime and the Catholic Church, which granted legitimacy to the regime while restoring the Church’s privileges.
- Hendaye Meeting: A meeting between Francisco Franco and Adolf Hitler in October 1940, which discussed the possibility of Spain’s direct involvement in World War II.
- Referendum: A direct vote by the electorate on a proposal, law, or political issue, often used to ratify a state decision.
- Development
Interwar Period: Rise of Totalitarian Regimes & Global Crises
The Interwar Period: Totalitarianism & Global Crises
The Roaring Twenties & Economic Recovery
- League of Nations: Established for international cooperation.
- International Relations: Remained tense despite efforts.
- Pact of Locarno: Aimed to normalize post-WWI relations.
- Economic Recovery: Significant growth in many nations.
- Industrial Development: Rapid expansion of industries.
The Abrupt End to Prosperity: 1929 Crisis
The global economy experienced rapid growth, fueled by financial speculation. People
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