Spain's Restoration Era: Cánovas's Political Foundations

Doctrinal Principles of the Spanish Restoration

The political system of the Restoration was designed and implemented by Antonio Cánovas del Castillo, often said to be with the help of Práxedes Mateo Sagasta. Cánovas, a liberal historian and politician, was formed in the ranks of the Liberal Union and possessed a deep knowledge of Spanish history, which illuminated his vision for the nation.

Key Doctrinal Principles of the Restoration Scheme:

1. Overcoming Instability and Achieving Pacification

   The Restoration was not just about restoring the legitimate Bourbon dynasty; it also aimed to overcome the political instability of the previous period and achieve social and political pacification of the country.

2. Synthesis of Old and New: The "Internal Constitution"

   To achieve this, a synthesis between the old and the new was necessary. This included the legacy of history – what Cánovas called the "internal constitution" of a country – and the progressive ideals of the administration. Within this constitution, a series of essential political principles were established, which Cánovas referred to as the "true mother": the Monarchy, the Dynasty, Liberty, Property, and the Government of the King with the Cortes. These principles were considered part of the Spanish soul, tradition, and character, and therefore could not be renounced by any Spaniard. The internal constitution was not something issued; it existed because the Spanish people were as they were.

3. Pragmatism: The "Art of the Possible"

   Given these foundational principles, all else was considered accessory, to be imposed by a sense of reality. Policy, therefore, had to be "the art of the possible," meaning it must adapt to the circumstances of time and place.

4. Civilian Supremacy Over Military Power

   Civil power was deemed superior to military power, as it legitimately represented the national will expressed through the vote.

5. Seeking Consensus and Avoiding Inflexibility

   Cánovas was an enemy of inflexible or irreconcilable positions. He sought agreement or transaction – what we would call consensus today. He understood that everyone was required to yield to each other. Even recognizing the individual rights of opponents – a "Cánovas possibility" – ensured that all were well integrated into the system.

6. The Pact for Peaceful Coexistence

   In short, a pact between all political forces was called for, enabling peaceful coexistence within a parliamentary monarchy. This pact would inform a new constitution that was to be widely agreed upon.