The Rise of the Labor Movement: A History of Workers’ Struggle
The Rise of the Labor Movement
The Industrial Proletariat and Early Resistance
The increasing industrialization of the nineteenth century gave rise to a new social class: the industrial proletariat. These workers often faced exploitation, excessive hours, and harsh working and living conditions, especially women and children. In response to this situation, the labor movement emerged, driven by the proletariat’s growing awareness of their shared identity and the need to fight for survival.
The early
Read MoreThe Crisis of 1917 and the Primo de Rivera Dictatorship (1923-1930) in Spain
The Crisis of 1917
The crisis of 1917 in Spain must be understood within the international context of World War I (1914-1918). Spain’s neutrality during the war initially led to economic recovery, as demand for industrial goods from belligerent countries increased. The middle classes benefited most, seeking to increase their profits. Meanwhile, workers faced rising needs and product shortages due to decreased imports and increased exports.
The Russian Revolution spurred the Spanish socialist movement.
Read MoreThe French Revolution: A Tumultuous Era of Change
The French Revolution (1789-1799)
The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political upheaval in late 1700’s France. It profoundly impacted French and global history, leading to the overthrow of the monarchy, the establishment of a republic, and far-reaching social and political reforms.
Causes of the Revolution
Several factors contributed to the outbreak of the French Revolution:
- Enlightenment Ideals: Thinkers like Voltaire and Rousseau challenged the legitimacy of absolute monarchy
Democratic Manifesto of the Board (1974): A Call for Change in Francoist Spain
Democratic Manifesto of the Board (1974)
Context and Authors
This political manifesto, advocating for change within Spain, was drafted by the Democratic Board, a coalition of political groups and figures, on July 29, 1974. This period coincided with the decline of the Franco regime, with Franco himself hospitalized and weakened. The Democratic Board sought to establish a provisional government to restructure the state, organize a democratic regime, integrate Spain into the European Economic Community,
Read MoreSpanish History: Late 19th and Early 20th Century
Pardo Pact (1885)
Agreement between Conservative and Liberal leaders consolidating the monarchy after Alfonso XII’s death. Cánovas pledged to cede power to the Liberals if they upheld the 1876 Constitution.
Free Institution of Education (1876)
Founded by university professors to defend academic freedom and resist conforming to official dogmas in religion, politics, or morals.
Zanjón Peace (1878)
Ended the Ten Years’ War (1868-1878) between Cuban independence fighters and Spain. Cuban rebels surrendered
The Spanish-American War of 1898: Causes, Consequences, and Regeneration
The Spanish-American War of 1898
I. Introduction: American Policy and Expansionism
By the late 19th century, the United States, fueled by a thriving post-Civil War economy and the Second Industrial Revolution, sought new markets for its surplus production and capital. The conquest of the West and the concept of the “frontier” were central to American ideology. The Monroe Doctrine (1823), asserting “America for Americans,” and the racially charged doctrine of Manifest Destiny, which proclaimed American
Read More