Spanish Restoration: Monarchy, Constitution, and Dynastic Parties

Political Model of the Spanish Restoration (1874)

The Restoration of 1874 marked a return to a monarchy and a conservative political system. Cánovas del Castillo, a key figure, aimed to establish a liberal political system. The Constitution of 1876 was a cornerstone of this era, featuring:

• Sovereignty

  Shared between the king and the nation.

• Censitary Suffrage

  Limited to approximately 5% of the population, primarily those with high incomes. In 1880, universal male suffrage was introduced, requiring voters to be at least 25 years old. An open list system allowed voters to choose individual candidates rather than parties.

• Separation of Powers

  Legislative Branch: A bicameral parliament consisting of the Congress (representing national sovereignty through suffrage) and the Senate (partially appointed by the King). The Congress drafts, modifies, and votes on laws, which are then sent to the Senate for approval. The King has the power to veto legislation. Executive Branch: The government, led by a President elected by the Congress, who then chooses the ministers. Its function is to promote legislative initiatives. Judiciary: The judges, with the King having a significant role in judicial appointments. Their function was to rule on law enforcement.

• King

  Shares sovereignty with the nation, has the right to veto, chooses senators, and can call judicial elections.

• Confessional State

  The Catholic Church is part of the state, registering births, deaths, and marriages, and receiving economic support.

• Rights

  Individual and political liberties, including freedom of residence, opinion, and assembly.

Dynastic Parties

The political landscape was marked by disorder, leading to the adoption of a British-style model. The Pact of the Pardo between Cánovas (Conservative) and Sagasta (Liberal) established an agreement for the alternation of power.

Restoration Period

The Restoration period is generally divided into two phases: 1874-1898, considered a successful period, and 1898-1923, marked by challenges. The system of the Restoration, designed by Cánovas, aimed to avoid the problems of the 19th century. However, social and political changes, such as the rise of the proletariat, the bourgeoisie, and worker movements, led to transformations.