Reign of Isabella II & Spanish Politics: Moderates, Espartero, & the Sexenio

The Reign of Isabella II (1833-1868)

Early Years and Marriage

Isabella II began her reign at the age of 13 in 1833. Three years later, she married her cousin, Francisco de Asís, a husband imposed by government interests. The marriage was a failure, as the couple reportedly hated each other.

Dominance of the Moderates (1844-1854)

During Isabella II's reign, the Moderate Party held significant power. The Queen entrusted them with forming governments, excluding the Progressives. The Progressives, in turn, opted for either exclusion from government or violent uprisings, such as military revolts. The Moderates remained in power between 1844 and 1854, with Ramón María Narváez notably holding the premiership on several occasions.

This period, marked by relative tranquility, saw the Moderates implement several key policies:

• The Civil Guard (1844): This body was established to maintain public order and combat banditry.
• New Municipal Law (1845): This law allowed the government to appoint all mayors, enhancing central control.
• Tax System Reform: Aiming to improve tax efficiency and increase state revenue to reduce deficits and fund new public services. The reforms included:
  • Direct Taxes: These formed the basis of the system, representing 25% of revenues.
  • Indirect Taxes: These included tariffs, sales taxes, and excise duties.

The Militia Issue (1845): The Moderates viewed the militia, which included many unemployed workers, as a dangerous armed body influenced by the Progressives.

Constitution of 1845: This constitution replaced the 1837 text. Key aspects included the declaration of Spain as a Catholic state, with Catholicism as the sole religion, and increased authority for the monarch, transforming the courts into a more powerful political force.

The Regency of General Espartero (1841-1843)

Following a clash with the Progressives over changes to municipal law, Maria Cristina, Isabella II's mother and regent, resigned. The Queen refused to allow mayors to be elected by municipalities, proposing instead their appointment by the central government. The Progressives, believing the Queen was no longer necessary after the Carlist Wars, instigated violent disturbances. Unable to withstand the pressure, Maria Cristina went into exile.

With the support of the Progressives, General Espartero replaced Maria Cristina as regent, appointed by the courts.

The Democratic Sexenio (1868-1874)

The authoritarian and repressive policies of the Moderate Liberals led to their governing without broad social or political support. The Progressive Liberals saw force as their only path to power.

In September 1868, the Glorious Revolution erupted in Cadiz and spread throughout Spain. The revolution aimed to overthrow Isabella II and implement universal male suffrage. The revolution was led by the Progressive Party under Prim, the Democratic Party, and the Liberal Union.

Factors contributing to the revolution included the crisis of the political system, the unpopularity of the Queen and her court, and an economic depression that led to bank failures.

The revolution succeeded, leading to a provisional government with Serrano as president and Prim as Prime Minister. Elections under universal male suffrage were held, resulting in a Progressive victory. A new constitution was drafted in 1869.