Monarchies and Unification in 15th Century Europe
15th Century European Monarchies
During the second half of the 15th century, modern national monarchies emerged in Europe, highlighting the power of the sovereign against noble political powers and the theoretical authority of the papacy and the Holy Roman Empire. These monarchies tended to develop unifying efforts, often through alliances against common enemies. For example, France under Louis XI and England under Henry VIII pursued such strategies.
The Spanish Case: The Catholic Monarchs
In Spain,
Read MorePresidential Powers in France: Constitutional Rights
Article 16: Emergency Powers
The President of France can invoke Article 16 of the Constitution, which grants special powers during exceptional situations or crises.
- Conditions for Invocation: A serious and immediate threat that prevents the proper functioning of constitutional public authorities.
- Consultation: The President must consult the Prime Minister, the Presidents of the Chambers, and the Constitutional Council.
- Public Address: The President must inform the public through a message.
- Constitutional
Spanish Civil War Timeline: 1936-1939
1936
| 1936 |
|
Spain’s Transition to Democracy: 1975-1976
November 22: Juan Carlos I Sworn In as King
On November 22, Juan Carlos I swore before the Courts as the new king. While his speech disappointed those who longed for a message of openness, it launched a very strong message, clearly aligned with political change.
The Monarchy’s Plan for Political Change
In November 1975, the environment of the monarch already had a rough design of what should be the process of political change. The aim was to make changes from within the very legality of the fundamental
Read MoreTransitology: Understanding Democratic Transitions
Transitology
Transitology deals with two ideas. It is a reaction against the determinism of the other two schools, understood as if certain conditions are presented, fixed consequences are inevitable. It emphasizes agency over structure and focuses on the motives and circumstances that trigger industrialization and modernization, including the consideration of individual actors. A potential danger is overestimating the importance of the role of individuals over large social groups.
Criticism: Transitology’
Read MoreSpanish Legislation: Constitutional, Administrative, and Regional Laws
Key Spanish Legislation
Constitutional and Organic Laws
- LO (Organic Law) 2/79, October 3: Constitutional Court.
- LO 3/81, April 6: Ombudsman.
- Modification of LO 2/92, March 5.
- LO 4/81, June 1: States of Alarm, Exception, and Siege.
- LO 5/85, June 19: General Electoral Regime. Incompatibilities of Deputies and Senators, Constitutional Court members, senior administration officials (except government members), Ombudsman, Magistrates, Judges, Prosecutors, and active military personnel.
- LO 6/85, July 1: Judiciary.