The Spanish Popular Front: A Coalition for Change (1936)
The Spanish Popular Front (1936)
Introduction
This document, published in 1936 in the magazine “El Socialista“, outlines the program of the Spanish Popular Front. Targeting a general audience, it represents a joint effort by the Republican and Socialist parties to secure victory in the upcoming 1936 elections.
Background: The Second Republic and the Need for Unity
The 1936 elections were called after a tumultuous period in the Second Spanish Republic. Following a provisional government and the drafting of a new constitution, the first elections brought Republicans and Socialists to power. They initiated reforms, but challenges like land redistribution led to the resignation of Prime Minister Azaña in 1933.
The subsequent elections saw right-wing parties unite in a coalition, while left-wing parties remained divided. This resulted in a right-wing victory, ushering in the “Black Two Years” or “Conservative Republic” (1933-1935). This period was marked by unrest, including the 1934 Revolution, which led to the imprisonment of many leftists. A corruption scandal ultimately forced the resignation of the right-wing government, paving the way for the 1936 elections.
Recognizing the need for unity, the left-wing parties formed the Popular Front to consolidate their support and prevent another right-wing victory. This document aimed to rally citizens behind their shared goals.
The Popular Front Program: Points of Agreement and Disagreement
The Popular Front program highlighted areas of agreement and disagreement between the Republicans and Socialists. Both parties agreed on upholding the Constitution and granting amnesty to political prisoners jailed since 1933.
However, key differences remained. On land reform, Socialists advocated for expropriation and redistribution to workers, while Republicans favored a more moderate approach. Regarding banks, Socialists sought nationalization, while Republicans preferred reforms without government control. Finally, Socialists envisioned a state controlled by the working class (proletarian dictatorship), a concept Republicans did not endorse.
Impact and Aftermath
The Popular Front’s message resonated widely, even prompting anarchists, fearful of a right-wing resurgence, to urge their supporters to vote for the coalition. The Popular Front won the 1936 elections, with Azaña becoming President of the Republic and Casares Quiroga leading the government.
While the new government aimed to reinstate reforms initiated during their previous tenure, their time was cut short. In July 1936, a military coup, long in the making, plunged Spain into the Civil War. The Republican government, focused on defense, could not implement its program. The war ended in 1939 with a Nationalist victory.
Women’s Suffrage: A Side Note
The document also highlights the debate surrounding women’s suffrage. Victoria Kent (Socialist) and Clara Campoamor (Radical Republican) held opposing views. Kent, fearing that women would vote conservatively due to religious influence, favored delaying suffrage. Campoamor championed immediate and universal suffrage for women.
Ultimately, women gained the right to vote in Spain in 1933. While the right-wing victory in that election cannot be solely attributed to women’s votes, it underscores the complex political landscape of the time.
Conclusion
The 1936 Popular Front program represents a pivotal moment in Spanish history. It reflects the left’s attempt to unify against a resurgent right wing. While the Civil War tragically cut short their ambitions, the program provides valuable insight into the political climate and aspirations of pre-war Spain.