The Fall of the Spanish Monarchy: The End of the Restoration System

The Reign of Alfonso XII and the Restoration System

Alfonso XII was declared of age in 1902. The Restoration system remained in place at the beginning of his reign, but it began to face a crisis in 1917, leading to a military dictatorship and eventually the fall of the monarchy.

Regenerationist Policies and Internal Conflicts

Between 1902 and 1917, two new leaders, Antonio Maura (Conservative) and Jose Canalejas (Liberal), attempted to implement regenerationist policies to address the problems of the Restoration system. However, their efforts to end despotism and implement social improvements were unsuccessful.

The Tragic Week in Barcelona (1909) was a major internal conflict during this period. It was sparked by the mobilization of reservists for the war in Morocco, leading to strikes and riots in Barcelona. The harsh repression by the Conservative government caused a split with the Liberals and the resignation of President Maura.

The Crisis of the Restoration System (1917-1923)

Between 1917 and 1923, the problems facing the Restoration system intensified, leading to a series of crises.

Triple Dimension of the Crisis

• Military: Demands for higher wages and promotions based on seniority rather than merit.
• Political: Catalan demands for a new constitution and decentralized state.
• Social: A general strike called by leftist parties and unions to protest rising prices and poverty.

The harsh suppression of the strike further exacerbated the political deterioration.

The Dictatorship of Primo de Rivera (1923-1930)

In 1923, General Primo de Rivera staged a coup, ending the Restoration system and establishing a dictatorship.

Two Phases of the Dictatorship

First Phase (1923-25)

• Suspension of the 1876 Constitution.
• Dissolution of Parliament.
• Ban on political parties.
• Repression of labor and nationalism.
• Victory in the Moroccan War.

Second Phase (1925-30)

• Formation of a civil directory.
• Encouragement of irrigated agriculture and industry.
• Construction of roads and railways.

However, the impact of the 1929 crisis, rising unemployment, and opposition from labor, nationalists, and intellectuals led to Primo de Rivera's resignation in 1930.

The End of the Monarchy

Attempts to return to the parliamentary system failed due to the monarchy's loss of prestige. In the municipal elections of April 1931, Republicans triumphed in major cities. Alfonso XIII decided to leave the country, marking the end of the Spanish monarchy.