The Reign of Carlos III: Spanish Enlightenment Reforms

Enlightened Despotism and Carlos III of Spain

The Concept of Enlightened Despotism

Enlightened Despotism was the dominant political theory and practice in Europe during the eighteenth century. It stemmed from the notion of the absolute state (an all-powerful monarchy with sole royal power) and the king as a great benefactor of his people, who sought the welfare and happiness of his subjects through the imposition of a series of reforms "from above." These reforms were directed by reformist politicians inspired by Enlightenment thinkers of the time, particularly British and French, aiming to improve the economy, administration, and education to foster state prosperity. The motto "Everything for the people, but without the people" reflects that these reforms did not intend to change the fundamental structure of the Ancien Régime or its absolutist, estate-based system.

Carlos III's Reforms in Spain

Prominent examples in Europe included Catherine the Great of Russia and Frederick the Great of Prussia. In Spain, Carlos III, the third son of Philip V, ascended to the throne. He aimed to modernize Spanish society, surrounding himself with reformist ministers and advisors such as the Count of Aranda, Pedro de Olavide, Campomanes, and Floridablanca. His reforms impacted various areas:

• Urban Design: Particularly in Madrid, including paved streets, street lighting, waste disposal, and monumental public works.
• Agriculture: Agrarian reforms aimed at addressing issues in the Spanish countryside, including large entailed estates (amortización) and the repopulation of areas like the Sierra Morena.
• Manufacturing: State promotion of industries like shipyards, weapons manufacturing, and luxury goods.
• Trade: Liberalization of trade with the Americas (1778).
• Finance: Creation of the Banco Nacional de San Carlos (the first national bank).

Opposition: The Esquilache Riots

Opposition to these government reforms manifested in 1766 with the Esquilache Riots (Motín de Esquilache). Ostensibly triggered by rules on clothing (mandating shorter capes and three-cornered hats instead of long cloaks and wide-brimmed hats) and urban improvements, the riots reflected deeper opposition to Minister Esquilache's measures aimed at reducing the privileges of the nobility and clergy and fostering trade. However, significant factors included popular discontent over the rising price of bread (following the liberalization of grain prices the previous year), broader economic problems, and increased taxes due to the war with Great Britain. The revolt spread throughout Spain, leading to the dismissal of Esquilache (replaced by the Count of Aranda) and the expulsion of the Jesuits, who were accused of instigating the riots, demonstrating the limits of royal authority. This event showcased the complexities of implementing reforms against established interests. Reforms continued after the riots, but they were pursued more cautiously.