The First Carlist War (1833-1840): Causes and Consequences

The First Carlist War (1833-1840)

Following the death of Fernando VII, a seven-year civil war known as the First Carlist War erupted. The conflict pitted supporters of Carlos María Isidro, who sought to maintain the Old Regime, against supporters of his daughter, Isabella II, who advocated for the triumph of liberalism.

The Ideology of Carlism

Carlism, rooted in the "Persian Manifesto," garnered support from rural populations—particularly in the north—as well as segments of the Church and nobility who rejected liberal principles and land confiscations. Conversely, major cities, the military command, and the regular army supported the liberal cause. The liberal army relied on the quintas, a system of compulsory military service that was deeply unpopular among the poor, while the wealthy could pay to be exempted.

Key Factors of the Conflict

The war was driven by three primary factors:

• Socio-economic: The peasantry faced hostile liberal reforms, including the loss of traditional land rights, increased taxes, and the sale of municipal property.
• Privilege: The Carlist uprising was strongest in regions like Navarre and the Basque Country, which opposed liberal centralization and defended their fueros (peculiar regimes), including self-government, tax exemptions, and local judicial autonomy.
• Ideological: The movement was defined by traditionalist values, summarized by the motto: "God, Fatherland, King, and Privileges."

Phases of the War

• Organization: General Zumalacarregui organized a regular Carlist army in Navarre but failed to capture major cities, including Bilbao.
• Expeditions: Between 1836 and 1837, Carlist forces launched major expeditions across the peninsula, reaching the gates of Madrid without launching a decisive attack.
• The Convention of Vergara: By 1837, internal divisions weakened the Carlists. The liberal General Espartero achieved significant victories, leading to the Convention of Vergara (1839). This agreement integrated Carlist officers into the Elizabethan army and promised to recognize the Navarrese charters.
• Conclusion: Resistance continued in the Maestrazgo region under General Cabrera until 1840, when the final Carlist forces were defeated by the Elizabethan army.