Spain's 19th Century: From Absolutism to Republic and Restoration

The Courts of Cádiz and the Dawn of Liberalism (1808-1814)

In September 1808, the Courts of Cádiz established a central supreme board chaired by Floridablanca. This board later transferred its authority to a Council of Regency. Society became divided into liberals and absolutists. The Constitution of 1812 was approved, establishing the principles of a liberal regime:

• Indirect universal suffrage
• Equality of citizens before the law
• Abolition of traditional councils
• Removal of customs barriers

The Reign of Fernando VII: Absolutism and Liberalism (1814-1833)

After the liberal period, Fernando VII returned, ushering in six years of absolutist rule. This was followed by the Liberal Triennium (1820-1823) and then the repressive Ominous Decade (1823-1833).

The Reign of Isabel II (1833-1868)

The Moderate Decade (1844-1854)

Isabel II became queen at age 13. This period was largely dominated by the moderate politician Narváez. After a brief interlude where Istúriz brought the Queen home with Francis of Assisi, Narváez returned. Despite some crises, he eventually resigned. Bravo Murillo, known for his absolutist leanings, also held power.

The Progressive Biennium (1854-1856)

During this period, a new constitution was drafted but not enacted. Queen Isabel II deposed Espartero and appointed O'Donnell as head of government, who then promoted the Constitution of 1845.

The Liberal Union (1858-1863)

Narváez returned with a repressive policy but was eventually removed. The government of the Liberal Union began under O'Donnell. There were demonstrations due to an article criticizing the queen, leading to an uprising against her. O'Donnell resigned, and the Progressives and Democrats agreed to the Pact of Ostend. This political disintegration culminated in the Glorious Revolution of 1868.

The Democratic Sexenio (1868-1874)

Prim became the head of the revolutionary committee, alongside Topete and Serrano. Forces loyal to Isabel II tried to stop them, but the revolution succeeded, and Isabella went to France.

The Provisional Government (1868-1871)

Chaired by Serrano and composed of progressives, this government called for elections. The constitutional courts were divided into various factions: Carlists, Moderate Unionists, Progressives, Democrats, Republicans, and Federalists.

The Constitution of 1869

Known as "La Gloriosa," this constitution established:

• National sovereignty
• Division of powers
• Universal male suffrage
• A declaration of universal rights
• Religious freedom

The Regency of Serrano (1869-1871)

Serrano became regent until a king could be found. There were many riots and demonstrations, but Prim suppressed republican outbreaks. Each faction had a favorite candidate, but Amadeo of Savoy was eventually chosen as king. He faced numerous political problems and, after two years, was assassinated.

The First Spanish Republic (1873-1874)

Figueras was elected the first president, but it was a republic with a monarchical constitution. Radical reforms were proposed but stopped by Pi y Margall, who then became president. Republicans on the far left promoted cantonalism, challenging Pi y Margall.

His successor was Nicolás Salmerón, who suppressed the cantonalists. Salmerón's successor was Emilio Castelar, who dissolved the Cortes, but his government was interrupted by General Pavía's coup. Power then passed to the hands of General Martínez Campos, who, through the Sagunto pronouncement, ended the Democratic Sexenio and imposed the Monarchical Restoration.