The First Spanish Republic (1873-1874): A Tumultuous Journey
The First Spanish Republic (1873-1874)
5. Proclamation and Early Challenges
The Republic’s Birth
The First Spanish Republic emerged from the resignation of Amadeus of Savoy. On February 11, 1873, the Courts proclaimed the Republic, electing Estanislao Figueras as president. However, the Republic faced significant challenges from the outset. International recognition was limited, with only the United States and Switzerland acknowledging the new government.
Popular Support and Unrest
Despite the challenges, the Republic was met with enthusiasm from the popular classes, who hoped for social change. Popular demonstrations and movements for land allocation, particularly in Andalusia, highlighted the existing social tensions. However, the Republic’s leaders, many of whom were federalists, prioritized maintaining order and suppressing these revolts.
Constituent Assembly Elections
Elections for the Constituent Assembly resulted in a Republican victory, although with low voter turnout (over 60% abstention). This highlighted the fragility of the Republic’s support.
The Federal Republic
Proclamation and Reforms
On June 7, 1873, the Federal Democratic Republic was proclaimed. President Figueras initiated reforms, including the abolition of unpopular taxes like the consumos (taxes on commodities) and the quintas (conscription system). However, lack of resources and internal divisions led to his resignation, with Pi i Maragall taking over.
Draft Constitution
The 1873 Constitution aimed to establish a federal democracy with broad rights and freedoms. It proposed a bicameral parliament, a president, and a federal structure comprising 17 states, including Cuba. Key legislative initiatives included the abolition of slavery in the colonies and conscription, along with tax reform and protectionist legislation.
Armed Conflicts and Internal Divisions
Multiple Conflicts
The Republic faced several armed conflicts: the Carlist Uprising, the war with Cuba, and the Cantonal Insurrection. The Cantonalist movement, driven by autonomist and social revolutionary aspirations, led to the proclamation of independent cantons, further destabilizing the Republic.
Division within Republicanism
Internal divisions within the Republican movement weakened the government’s ability to address these challenges effectively.
The End of the Republic
Castelar’s Conservative Turn
Under President Castelar, the Republic took a conservative turn, leading to dissatisfaction among some Republicans. A censure motion against Castelar was planned.
Pavia’s Coup and Serrano’s Government
On January 3, 1874, Castelar’s government was defeated. Manuel Pavia, a Republican general, dissolved Parliament. Power subsequently passed to a coalition led by General Serrano, who attempted to stabilize the Republic.
Restoration of the Monarchy
On December 29, 1874, General Martínez Campos proclaimed Alfonso XII king of Spain in Sagunto. Isabella II abdicated in favor of her son. Cánovas del Castillo, a conservative leader, guided the restoration of the monarchy, promising a Catholic regime that would ensure stability and order.