The Second Spanish Republic: Origins and Reforms (1931–1939)

Pact of San Sebastián and the Birth of the Republic

The Second Republic lasted from April 14, 1931, to April 1, 1939, ending with the Nationalist victory in the Spanish Civil War. In August 1930, the Revolutionary Committee formed the Pact of San Sebastián to abolish the monarchy and establish a democratic nation. The coalition included regionalist, constitutional, republican, and socialist factions.

The Socialist Biennium

A provisional government was headed by Niceto Alcalá-Zamora, representing republican-socialist tendencies. The country was deeply divided between clerical and anticlerical factions. The expulsion of Cardinal Segura served as a catalyst for open revolt against the monarchical-aligned church.

The 1931 Constitution

Approved on December 9, 1931, the constitution established:

• National sovereignty
• Universal suffrage (including women)
• Religious freedom, expression, and assembly
• A secular state
• Legalization of divorce and civil marriage

Key Reforms

Educational Reform

With a 44% illiteracy rate, the government increased the budget to build 10,000 schools in two years, though progress was hindered by religious teaching orders.

Military Reform

To address the imbalance of many officers and few soldiers, the government implemented early retirement, closed three of five military academies, modernized the army, and created the Assault Guard.

Labor Laws

Legislation introduced the 8-hour workday, social security, and allowances for unemployment and old age.

Religious Reforms

The state became secular with no official religion, though individual cults remained respected.

Statutes of Autonomy

The Generalitat of Catalonia was restored to redefine its ties with the Republic. Although suspended three years later, it was reinstated following the Popular Front's victory. The Basque Statute of Autonomy was initially rejected by the Spanish courts due to articles governing relations with the Vatican, but it was finally approved on October 1, 1936, following the Popular Front's success in February 1936.

Land Reform

Addressing the long-standing issue of land distribution, the government sought to convert laborers into small landowners by expropriating large estates through the Agrarian Reform Institute. This faced fierce resistance from landowners and right-wing parties, leading to conflicts, land occupations, and the establishment of libertarian communism. Events like the Casas Viejas incident scandalized the public, forcing Azaña to resign and call for general elections in November 1933. The Right-wing CEDA party subsequently won the elections, leading to the suspension of previous reforms.