The Restoration System in Spain: A Political Analysis (1874-1900)
Introduction
The Restoration System in Spain (1874-1900) emerged from a period of intense political instability, marked by events such as the Carlist Wars, colonial conflicts, and the Cantonal Revolution. This turbulent context allowed for the military uprising led by Martínez Campos in Sagunto (1874), paving the way for the restoration of the monarchy under Alfonso XII. Cánovas del Castillo played a crucial role in shaping the new political landscape.
The Architect of the Restoration
Antonio Cánovas del Castillo, a prominent political figure, orchestrated the transition to a constitutional monarchy. He attracted politicians who opposed both absolutism and the republic, establishing a system that balanced liberal and authoritarian elements. This framework allowed for the peaceful alternation of power between the left and right through manipulated elections.
Exclusionary Practices
The Restoration System deliberately excluded anti-monarchist, anti-liberal, and anti-national parties, as well as the masses, from political participation. The military was also barred from political activity. This strategy aimed to consolidate power and maintain stability.
Development
Constitution of 1876
The Constitution of 1876, which remained in effect until 1931, established a centralized state with sovereignty shared between the king and the Cortes (parliament). Catholicism was declared the official state religion. The division of powers was not clearly defined, and the king held significant influence over parliament and the government.
Political Parties
The system fostered the creation of two main political parties: the Liberal-Conservative Party, led by Cánovas and later Silvela, and the Liberal Party, led by Sagasta. These parties alternated in power, maintaining a semblance of democratic process. The king appointed the prime minister, who needed the support of the Cortes to govern. If the prime minister failed to secure parliamentary support, the king could dissolve the Cortes and call for new, rigged elections.
Oligarchy and Despotism in Andalusia
To ensure the victory of the king’s chosen candidate, elections were manipulated with the help of local leaders and provincial governors. Andalusia, a predominantly rural and illiterate region, became a prime target for electoral manipulation. Landowners exerted significant influence over the population, and protests by day laborers were often suppressed. Caciquismo, a system of local political bosses, thrived in this environment.
Governmental Tasks
The Restoration government implemented various measures, including the approval of standard liberal rights from the 1869 Constitution, the Jury Law, the establishment of universal male suffrage, and the creation of a commission for social reforms. Debates on free trade and protectionism also took place.
Opposition to the System
Opposition to the Restoration System came from various groups, including the Carlists, who rejected the regime and formed illegal parties. Republicans were divided between federalists and unitarians. Nationalist movements also emerged, particularly in Catalonia and the Basque Country, advocating for greater autonomy or even independence.
Nationalism
Catalan Nationalism: Originating during the Sexenio Democrático (1868-1874), Catalan nationalism gained momentum with the founding of the Centre Català. In 1891, the Unió Catalanista was formed, and later, in the early 20th century, the Lliga Regionalista emerged as the first major Catalan nationalist party.
Basque Nationalism: Basque nationalism focused on the defense of traditional rights and the rejection of industrialization and capitalism. It blamed immigrants for the impoverishment of the Basque people. From 1898 onwards, Basque nationalism ranged from radical independence to integration with Spain.
Conclusions
- The system itself generated fraud and corruption.
- A growing gap emerged between official Spain and the reality experienced by the majority of the population.
- Political forces outside the ruling parties were marginalized.
- Parliamentary activity was limited due to low citizen participation in manipulated elections.
- The economic policy based on protectionism, advocated by conservatives, failed to incentivize production, quality, and competition.