19th Century Spain: Economic and Cultural Evolution

Economic Transformation in 19th Century Spain

The economic sectors experienced some changes in the nineteenth century, especially in the second half, but they were not as significant as those in the rest of Europe.

Agriculture: The Economic Foundation

Agriculture was the basis of the country's economy. During the century, agricultural production increased to expand areas planted with cereals and vines, but it also experienced a crisis caused by phylloxera.

The Slow Pace of Industrialization

Industrialization took place slowly and late:

• Textiles: This was one of the most innovative sectors of the century. However, the wool and silk industries were unable to modernize and began to decline.
• Steel: A process of modernization began, and large companies were founded with sufficient capital to purchase machinery. However, they could not overcome problems such as low demand or fuel shortages.

Key Industrial Regions

• Catalonia: Focused on the textile industry.
• Vizcaya and Asturias: Developed the steel industry through iron exports and the growth of the shipping and metallurgical industries.

Social Structure and Class Evolution

Society evolved from a stratified structure to a class society.

• Oligarchic Class: The stately nobility maintained great influence because of their political offices and ownership of many agricultural fields.
• Commercial and Industrial Bourgeoisie: This class was small and, depending on where they were located in the country, engaged in agricultural tasks or business functions.
• Working Class: Comprising peasants and the proletariat, this group faced low economic status and a high illiteracy rate.

Social Conflicts and Ideologies

Social conflicts arose from strenuous working hours, low wages, and poor housing in slums. Two main associations corresponded to ideological trends:

• Socialism: Spread through a party, the PSOE (founded in 1879), and a trade union, the UGT (founded in 1888).
• Anarchism: Organized into unions, these groups often used violent methods.

Cultural and Artistic Movements

Literary Trends

• Romanticism: Reflected the quest for freedom and romantic love.
• Realism: Described the social reality of the country.
• Modernism: Influenced by the writing of Rubén Darío.
• Generation of '98: Transmitted the pessimism caused by the 1898 disaster.

Music and Fine Arts

In music, notable figures included Albéniz, Granados, and Falla.

Architecture

Neoclassicism remained in force in Spain, but two new architectural styles also developed:

• Historicism: A copy and even a blend of elements from various architectural styles of past eras, seen in the Royal Theatre and the National Library.
• Modernism: Utilized new materials such as iron and innovative designs, exemplified by Gaudí and Casa Milà.

Sculpture

• Realism: Characterized by the naturalism of the characters portrayed, such as works by Bellver and Benlliure (e.g., the Monument to General Campos).
• Modernism: Presenting effects of light and shadow and undulating forms, such as Llimona (Grief).

Painting

• Romanticism: The majority of portraits and paintings described Spanish customs and landscapes, featuring Madrazo and Bécquer.
• Realism: A reflection of the social reality of the country, such as Martí Alsina (The Nap).
• History Painting: Recreated the historical past.