Spain's Liberal Transition: From Absolutism to Isabel II's Reign

Isabel II: Transition from Absolutism (Fernando VII)

The transition between the absolutist state of Fernando VII and the liberal reign of Isabel II presents characteristic features:

• Early Reformists and Moderates: Initially, supporters of the old state and liberal principles collaborated.
• Royal Statute of 1834: This legal text introduced reforms like territorial division into provinces and liberalization of trade, industry, and the press.
• Failure of Reconciliation: The attempt to reconcile liberalism and absolutism failed, partly due to the Carlist Wars.

Rise of the Progresistas (1835-1840)

The Progresistas, representing the urban middle classes, gained momentum through local boards, leading to a break with the old regime.

• Juan Álvarez Mendizábal: A key figure, he served as minister and later president of the council of ministers.
• Military Uprising (1836): The Sergeants' Revolt at La Granja led to the reinstatement of the 1812 Constitution (albeit amended and shortened).
• Secularization and Disentailment: Mendizábal promoted the secularization of the clergy and the abolition of religious orders to fund public debt and the Carlist War. Lordship and primogeniture were also abolished.

Challenges and Moderate Governments (1837-1840)

The Progresistas faced challenges from moderates and Maria Cristina, who supported moderate-dominated governments between 1837 and 1840.

• General Espartero's Rise: A military insurrection led by General Espartero resulted in Maria Cristina and Isabel II going into exile.
• Authoritarian Liberalism: Espartero imposed an authoritarian liberal regime supported by the army.
• Resumption of Mendizábal's Laws: Church property confiscation and the abolition of the tithe were resumed, provoking opposition from the Church and Papacy.
• Free Trade Agreement with the UK: This agreement caused friction with France and the Catalan textile industry.

Insurrection and the Return of Isabel II (1843)

A general civil and military insurrection in 1843 led to General Narváez defeating government troops at Torrejón de Ardoz.

• Isabel II, now an adult, returned, marking the beginning of the construction of a new liberal state.

The Moderate Era and the Constitution of 1845

The moderates, led by Narváez, established a stable but oligarchic political system, prioritizing order over freedom.

• 1845 Constitution: Reinforced conservative elements from 1837.
• Centralized Control: Measures were adopted to control government, provincial administration, and the creation of the Civil Guard. The militia was abolished.
• Concordat of 1851: The state committed to funding Church expenditures.