The Birth of Spanish Liberalism and Ferdinand VII

The War of Independence in Andalusia

Andalusia's role in the fight against the French during the early nineteenth century featured some of its most important demonstrations. In military terms, the Battle of Bailén was a turning point where the imperial armies, which had never been defeated in the open field, were overcome. The consequences forced Napoleon to rethink his strategy for Spain. At the ideological level, the city of Cádiz was chosen for the celebration of the Courts to give birth to the first Spanish Constitution, leading to the birth of liberalism.

The Beginnings of Liberalism: Constitution of 1812

The Cádiz Courts and Political Reform

During the War of Independence, the Regency summoned the Courts, and the deputies gathered in the city of Cádiz. Members represented the three estates: enlightened ecclesiastics, representatives of the bourgeoisie, the professions, and members of the nobility. Deputy Muñoz Torrero, in his inaugural speech, emphasized the need for national sovereignty, the division of powers, the disappearance of the estate-based society, and the necessity of a constitution. The assembled deputies belonged to three ideological currents:

• The Absolutists: Supporters of the return of Ferdinand VII who were opposed to any reform.
• The Reformers: Heirs of Enlightenment thought who favored changes but rejected radical approaches.
• The Liberals: Supporters of deep changes.

The function of the Cádiz Courts meant dismantling the Old Regime; the Inquisition and manorial privileges were abolished. Regulations were issued to liberalize trade and industry, and the first steps were taken toward disentailment.

The Impact of the 1812 Constitution

In the early nineteenth century, Cádiz was one of the cities where modern ideas had a significant impact. It had a burgeoning bourgeoisie and numerous cafes where political opinions were expressed. These discussions were very intense until a pact was reached between the most modern reformers and the liberals. The result was the approval of the first Spanish Constitution on March 19, 1812, which laid the foundations of Spanish liberalism.

It defined national sovereignty and the constitutional monarchy. Despite the separation of powers, the Crown still held important prerogatives. Legislative power was shared, and individual rights were established, such as equality before the law and the right to vote. This had a significant impact on other European countries, as well as Piedmont and Naples.

The Reign of Ferdinand VII: Liberalism vs Absolutism

The itinerary traced by the Courts dictated that the monarch should continue to Madrid. However, he went off to Valencia, and there he received the tribute of sixty-five absolutist deputies who presented the Manifesto of the Persians. Consequently, Ferdinand VII dissolved the Cortes and revoked all the legislative work they had completed. The illusions of the liberals had barely lasted a few weeks.