Spain's First Republic: Federalism, Cantonalism, and Collapse

The Federal Republic (1873)

The Constituent Cortes, born of an election where a majority abstained, met in June 1873 and established the Federal Republic form of government. Pi y Margall was named president of the First Republic, replacing Figueras. With a series of objectives to be achieved, the first measures were implemented, among which was the development of a new constitution under which 15 states were to be established. Although the new constitutional draft was completed quickly, its implementation was hampered by violent riots by Cantonalists, workers, and peasants that erupted everywhere.

Rise of Cantonalism and Social Unrest

Some of the most diehard Republicans, eager to implement federalism and discontented with the reality of government policy, decided to take up arms to replace the central power with small territorial units or cantons. On July 12, the canton of Cartagena was proclaimed independent, which was soon joined by those of:

• Valencia
• Castellón
• Alicante
• Seville
• Cádiz
• Málaga

Moreover, social reforms were eagerly awaited by workers and peasants. The slow pace at which these reforms were applied increased social unrest, especially in Catalonia, Andalusia, and Valencia. Pi y Margall was unable to cope with these insurrections or the Third Carlist Conflict, which ultimately led to his resignation.

Salmerón's Attempt at Order

The new president, Nicolás Salmerón, tried to restore order and quell the Carlist and Cantonalist rebellions and revolts. He enlisted the help of the army and almost entirely suppressed the Cantonalist problem. Only the canton of Málaga resisted until September, and Cartagena until January 1874. Salmerón, who despite acting harshly could not end all insurgencies or the Third Carlist War, resigned in September 1873.

The Unitary Republic (1874)

Emilio Castelar took over as President of the Republic. He adopted a more conservative stance and shifted the government towards unitarianism. The Cortes were suspended until the following January. Castelar reintroduced press censorship, cracked down on dissent, and restored the death penalty. Discontent over Castelar's policies was widespread among Republicans.

The new president had aimed to win over the bourgeoisie and the wealthier classes of the country but did not receive the expected support. On January 2, 1874, when the Cortes reopened, Castelar justified his actions, but parliament did not approve his policies and he was defeated by 120 votes against and 100 in favor.