The Cortes of Cádiz: A Liberal Revolution in Spain
Background
The Cortes of Cádiz was a revolutionary assembly that met in Cádiz, Spain, from 1810 to 1814. It was convened in response to the French invasion of Spain and the abdication of King Ferdinand VII. The Cortes was tasked with drafting a new constitution for Spain and reforming the country’s political system.
Political Factions
The Cortes was divided into two main political factions: the serviles or absolutists, who supported the traditional monarchy and the Catholic Church, and the liberals, who sought to establish a constitutional monarchy and implement liberal reforms.
Radical Reforms
The Cortes of Cádiz enacted a series of radical reforms, including:
- Establishing national sovereignty
- Proclaiming equality before the law
- Abolishing the Inquisition and other feudal institutions
- Confiscating Church property
- Creating a new provincial division
- Implementing freedom of trade and industry
The Constitution of 1812
On March 19, 1812, the Cortes of Cádiz promulgated the new constitution, known as La Pepa. The constitution established a constitutional monarchy, divided powers between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, and guaranteed individual rights and freedoms.
Legacy
The Constitution of 1812 was a landmark document in Spanish history. It was the first constitution to be adopted in Spain and it served as a model for liberal revolutions throughout the world. The Cortes of Cádiz also played a key role in the development of Spanish nationalism and the fight against French imperialism.
Although the constitution was eventually abolished by the absolutist restoration of 1814, its spirit and its program continued to inspire liberals throughout the 19th century. The Cortes of Cádiz remains a symbol of the struggle for freedom and democracy in Spain.