Queen Victoria’s Era: Domestic Ideals and Global Empire
Victorian Women: Angel or Pioneer?
The Ideal: Angel in the House
In 1854, the English poet Coventry Patmore published The Angel in the House, a narrative poem describing an idealised courtship. During the 19th century, the woman was idealized as the ‘angel of the house’, whose duties were to provide moral support to her husband, keep the house tidy, and educate the children. The husband maintained his role as the head of the family, and his duty was to keep his wife out of the workplace. The emblematic
Read MoreFrench Revolution Phases & Key German Unification Steps
Phases of the French Revolution
Liberal Revolution (1789-1792)
Key bodies included the States General, the National Assembly, and the Legislative Assembly.
Radical Revolution (1792-1794)
Dominated by The Convention and the Committee of Public Safety (leading to the Terror).
Thermidorian Reaction (1794-1799)
Characterized by The Directory.
Napoleon’s Rule (1799-1814)
Included The Consulate (until 1804) and subsequently The Empire.
Key Concepts of the French Revolution
Motto: Liberty, Equality, and Brotherhood.
Read MoreSpain’s Turbulent Sexenio: Regency, Republic & Cuba
The Regency of Serrano (1869-1871)
The Constitution of 1869
A moderately sized text with 112 articles, it was influenced by the Belgian Constitution of 1831 and the U.S. Constitution of 1787. Its preamble affirmed national sovereignty originating from the people (soberanía nacional) and proclaimed the separation of powers.
Key aspects included:
- Regulation of all individual rights.
- Establishment of universal male suffrage.
- Creation of a bicameral system (two legislative chambers).
- Royal powers similar
Spain’s Progressive Biennium Reforms 1932-1933
Progressive-Reformist Biennium (1932-1933)
During this biennium, a progressive policy of reforms was initiated to address the serious problems affecting Spain:
Military Reform
- Professionalization and democratization of the army (reducing divisions).
- Azaña Law (Law of Retirement of the Officer Corps): Allowed officers early retirement with full pay.
- Suppression of the Captaincies General.
- Creation of the Assault Guard (Guardia de Asalto), a police force loyal to the Republic.
- Subjection of military jurisdiction
Captain Alatriste: Danger and Intrigue in 17th Century Madrid
Captain Alatriste: Madrid Intrigues and Encounters
IV. The Ambush
It was time to end the lives of the Englishmen. On a Friday in March, late at night, a dim light illuminated the place chosen for the ambush. The wait seemed interminable, but the time finally came. Alatriste and the Italian assassin Malatesta launched themselves upon the Englishmen. Malatesta was about to deliver the mortal blow to one of them but was prevented by Alatriste. He saved the Englishman’s life, disobeying the orders of
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