The Return of Fernando VII and the Absolutist Regime in Spain
The Return of Fernando VII and the Absolutist Regime in Spain (1814-1820)
Historical Context
Upon Fernando VII’s return to Spain in 1814 following the Napoleonic Wars, the nation erupted in enthusiastic celebration. However, the King’s intentions regarding the changes that had occurred during his absence quickly became clear. On May 4th, after being received by General Elio in Valencia, he issued a royal decree abolishing the Cortes of Cádiz, declaring all its actions void, and effectively abolishing
Read MoreThe Restoration in Spain: Monarchy and Politics (1875-1898)
The Restoration in Spain (1875-1898)
Introduction
In 1875, the Bourbon dynasty was restored in Spain, bringing back some features of Isabel II’s reign, particularly concerning the political landscape. The major parties, now called Conservative and Liberal, were heirs to the old Moderate and Progressive groups. This period encompasses the reign of Alfonso XII and the Regency of María Cristina of Habsburg, governed by the Constitution of 1876. It was a time significantly impacted by the Cuban War and
Read MoreCharles IV, Godoy, Napoleon & the Spanish War of Independence
Charles IV and the Road to War
A Weak King in Tumultuous Times
Charles IV, successor to his father Charles III, proved to be a weak and indecisive king, ill-equipped to handle the challenges facing Spain. The French Revolution of 1789 sent shockwaves across European monarchies, fearing the spread of revolutionary ideals. In response, Prime Minister Marquis de Floridablanca closed Spain’s borders with France and implemented censorship.
The Rise of Godoy
Aranda, briefly in power, advocated neutrality,
Read MoreThe Restoration in Spain: Political Order and Constitution of 1876
1. The Sandhurst Manifesto: Canovas’ Vision for Spain
Antonio Cánovas del Castillo’s political regime in 1875 reflected both the strengths and weaknesses of the era. This period is often referred to as the Spain of Cánovas. The Sandhurst Manifesto, written by Cánovas and sent by the young Alfonso XII on December 1, 1874, serves as the best summary of Cánovas’ project for the Alfonsine Restoration. This document, a response to the numerous birthday congratulations Alfonso received, perfectly synthesizes
Read MoreThe Regency of Isabel II (1833-1843): Spain’s Tumultuous Era
Isabel II (1833-1843): The Regency
1. Regency of Maria Cristina (1833-1840)
This period coincided with the First Carlist War. Following the death of her husband, Ferdinand VII, and with her daughter, Elizabeth (the future Isabella II), being a minor (three years old), Maria Cristina of Naples assumed the Regency. She was supported by the Liberals, despite her own absolutist leanings.
Cea Bermudez, head of government after Ferdinand VII’s death, continued a policy of enlightened reformism. His main
Read MoreThe Conservative Biennium (1933-1935) in Spain
B. The Conservative Biennium (1933-1935)
The general elections of November 1933 gave victory to the center-right parties. The new government focused its political action toward dismantling the reformist work of the previous biennium. The government was structured around two political forces: the Radical Party of Alejandro Lerroux, which shifted to more conservative positions, and CEDA, a Catholic right-wing party led by José María Gil-Robles.
Lerroux’s Government and Reform Reversal
The new government
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