Spanish Restoration Era: Political System and Constitution

The Spanish Restoration: Political System (1875-1931)

Foundations of the Restoration System

In 1875, an assembly of deputies and senators, convened by Cánovas del Castillo, established a political system designed to ensure the peaceful alternation of power between two dominant forces: the Conservative Liberal Party and the Liberal Fusion Party. This system placed the monarch as a central figure, regulating power among the political factions. The foundation of this bipartisan system rested on the Conservative Party, led by Cánovas del Castillo, and the Liberal Fusion Party (later simply the Liberal Party), led by Sagasta. The resulting political alternation, known as "Turnismo" or the "Peaceful Turn," persisted throughout the entire length of the Restoration period.

Other Political Forces

Beyond these two major parties, other political groups existed, including:

• Moderate Republicanism: Aimed to maintain universal suffrage.
• Radical Republicanism: Advocated for more profound changes.
• Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE): Experienced slow development during this era.

The Constitution of 1876

Key Principles and Longevity

The Constitution of 1876 was the culmination of a project approved in May of that year. It was structured into 13 titles and 89 articles. This constitution proved to be the longest-lasting in Spanish history, remaining in force until the coup d'état by Primo de Rivera in 1923. It was subsequently reinstated after the dictator's resignation until the proclamation of the Second Republic in 1931. The constitution restored doctrinaire liberalism, recognizing two sources of sovereignty:

• The King, representing tradition.
• The Cortes (Parliament), representing the nation.

Representation System

The legislative power was vested in a bicameral system:

• Congress of Deputies:
  • Composed of one member over 25 years of age for every 50,000 citizens.
  • Mandate lasted 5 years.
• Senate:
  • Comprised of members by right (e.g., sons of the King with income exceeding 60,000 pesetas).
  • Life senators.
  • Members elected by corporations and major contributors.

Electoral Regulations and State Relations

Elections were governed by specific regulations, including:

• The King's majority at 16 years of age.
• Unified legal codes.
• Local government: Municipal elections existed.
• State-Church Relations: Catholicism was the official religion.

Caciquismo and Electoral Control

Despite the adoption of universal male suffrage, the electoral law of the Restoration period was designed to integrate a bipartisan national commitment, simulating the existence of a democratic regime. This system was heavily influenced by Caciquismo, a practice where local political bosses (caciques) exerted control over human groups and manipulated election results to conform to electoral expectations. The President of the Government chose his cabinet, with the Minister of the Interior playing a crucial role in managing the electoral process and ensuring desired outcomes.