Ferdinand VII of Spain: From Absolutism to Carlist Wars
Ferdinand VII and the Return to Absolutism (1814-1820)The Treaty of Valençay and the Manifesto of the PersiansFerdinand VII regained the Spanish crown in 1814 through the Treaty of Valençay. Upon his return, he received the Manifesto of the Persians from absolutist deputies, urging him to annul the Cádiz Constitution and reinstate absolute rule. Suppression of Liberal ReformsSupported by the army and popular enthusiasm, Ferdinand VII issued the Decree of May 4, 1814. This decree abolished the |
Late Francoism (1962-1975): Transformation and Decline of a Regime
Late Francoism (1962-1975): Transformation and Decline
1. Technocrats, Opus Dei, and Economic Liberalization
This era saw the rise of government technocrats and the peak influence of Opus Dei. Significant economic development and a liberalization of customs occurred, largely driven by tourism. However, a stark divide persisted between the ruling elite and a deeply reactionary society.
2. Seeds of Openness (1966-1967)
The 1966 Press Law signaled a degree of openness by eliminating ideological censorship.
Read MoreA Journey Through Spain’s Sacred Architecture: Santiago de Compostela and Chartres Cathedral
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
A Romanesque Masterpiece
The heart of Santiago de Compostela revolves around a pivotal Romanesque creation in the Iberian Peninsula: its renowned cathedral, housing the relics of St. James the Apostle. Bishop Gelmírez spearheaded the project in the late 11th century, with construction largely completed by 1122, barring the western facade and preceding section.
Architectural Features
The cathedral boasts a classic pilgrimage church layout, featuring three naves, three
Read MoreWorld War II: A Concise History
Fascist Aggression
The League of Nations failed to curb international aggression. Japan’s invasion of China in 1937 marked a turning point. Italy invaded Abyssinia and Albania, while Germany remilitarized the Rhineland. The Spanish Civil War, with intervention from Mussolini and Hitler, became a precursor to World War II.
The Policy of Appeasement
Hitler’s annexation of Austria in 1938 violated the Treaty of Paris. A policy of appeasement, rooted in inaction against fascist aggression in Spain, emboldened
Read More19th Century Liberalism: Political Parties, Power Struggles, and Progressive Reforms in Spain
19th Century Liberalism in Spain
Political Parties and Power Dynamics
During the 19th century, Spanish political parties clustered around influential figures, forming complex networks of personal and financial interests. These parties competed for power and influence, shaping the political landscape of the era.
Moderates
This diverse group, composed of landowners, merchants, and intellectuals, prioritized order and stability. They defended property rights and restricted suffrage based on wealth. Moderates
Read More16th-Century Spain: Rise and Fall of the Spanish Empire
Impact of America on Spain
From the beginning of the discovery, the potential for commercial exploitation of the newly found territories was evident. The American Conquest facilitated an exchange of agricultural products previously unknown on either side of the Atlantic. Corn, potatoes, cocoa, tobacco, and peanuts were the most significant contributions from America. However, gold and silver were the greatest riches extracted from the Americas.
The new territory became a major source of income for
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