Spanish Agricultural Economy and Land Systems 1875–1898

Evolution of the Economy and Demography (1875–1898)

With the arrival of Alfonso XII, the government presided over an economy centered on agriculture. Characteristics:

• Agriculture had very low-yield land; this was due to poor soil quality and the continued use of traditional working methods.
• Structure of land ownership: many peasants had no land, while landlords were apathetic and conformist.
• Agricultural crisis caused by meteorological factors (bad harvests).

Favorable Lease Systems in Catalonia

Emphyteusis: a lease agreement whereby the tenant held the property or house in perpetuity — effectively for life — provided the farmer paid the periodic cens (a regular payment). The contract could include the owner's agreement allowing the tenant farmer's son to continue working the land by paying a transfer; this provided farmers with greater security and well-being.

Rabassa Morta (temporary vineyard contract)

Rabassa Morta: this was a temporary contract used only for viticultural areas (vineyards) in Catalonia. The owner granted a plot to the farmer (the rabassaire) to plant only vines. The contract remained in force while the vines were kept alive. The owner was paid in cash and partly in kind; payments were proportional to the field's yield. In Catalonia, the vineyard became the flagship commercial product (1875–1890 — the joyful years of the vine). Importing grain from abroad (other states / abroad) also occurred.

New Land Reform

New land reform: Spain lagged behind the rest of Europe, but despite this delay production increased. Some changes occurred:

• Expansion of cultivated area; cereals remained the main crop. Although agriculture advanced, production was still low compared to Europe, and a protectionist policy was considered necessary — but not excessive, since too much protection could be detrimental (noted in 1891).
• As the nineteenth century progressed there were improvements in agricultural implements and tools.
• The most important fertilizers began to be used. Other forms of manure were introduced, such as guano (from Peru) and nitrate (from Chile).
• Increase in marketable agricultural products.