Spain's Political Systems in the Early 20th Century: Alfonso XIII, Primo de Rivera and the Republic
Political Systems in Early 20th Century Spain
During the first third of the 20th century, Spain experienced several forms of government: the reign of Alfonso XIII, the dictatorship of General Primo de Rivera, and the Second Republic.
The Bipartisan Regime of Alfonso XIII
The regime inherited by Alfonso XIII consisted of two parties—the Liberal and the Conservative—that alternated in government through elections manipulated by local political bosses (caciques).
Challenges Under Alfonso XIII
The governments of Alfonso XIII faced significant obstacles:
- The resurgence of nationalism, particularly in Catalonia.
- An army highly sensitive to criticism following the failure of 1898.
- The ongoing war in Morocco.
- The development of the labor movement and leftist