Spain's Political Landscape: From Moderate Liberals to Republic

The Moderate Decade (1843-1854)

During the reign of Isabella II, Spain's moderate liberal party remained in government. The Moderate Government converted Spain into a conservative and centralist liberal state. In 1845, a new constitution was adopted. Suffrage was restricted, sovereignty shared between the courts and the crown. The state signed the concordat with the Holy See, agreeing to finance the church and stop privatization. In some periods, moderate liberals adopted measures to stop centralist taxes and create penal and national education systems. The political system weakened. The monarchy was politically active, favoring competition among the aristocracy, military, and clergy for the favor of the queen, which led to corruption. Moderates and progressives in the army involved themselves in politics, leading to constant electoral manipulation.

The Progressive Biennium

A military coup led by O'Donnell brought the progressive liberals to power. They made two important reforms: the sale of public assets became legal, and General Raul's war law created a railway network in Spain.

Isabella's Reign in Crisis (1856-1868)

The second half of Isabella's reign was turbulent. Disagreements among liberals, moderates, and the Liberal Union (created by O'Donnell) derailed the Spanish government. The government acted without authorization and repressed uprisings. Opposition to the progressive regime grew, and new political groups emerged. Democrats advocated for universal male suffrage, while Republicans sought to abolish the monarchy. An economic crisis led to unrest.

Democratic Monarchy

Spain became a monarchy, and Amadeo of Savoy from Italy was chosen for the throne. He began his reign in 1870 with the support of the progressive, unionist, and democrat parties, ruling for two years. His reign was marked by the Cuban and Third Carlist wars. Amadeo lacked support.

The First Republic

The Cortes voted to form a republic and prepared a program of social reforms, attempting to establish a federal government. The republic faced permanent instability. Wars continued, and divisions among Republicans made political progress difficult. Unrest increased. Cartagena proclaimed a monarchy for Alonso, son of Isabella. In 1874, a coup dissolved the Cortes and made General Serrano head of state, who tried to establish a republic but found no support.