The Spanish Revolution of 1868 and the First Republic

The Revolution and Provisional Government (1868-1869)

The Revolution of 1868 was triggered by progressives and democrats, who were joined by unionists and led by Admiral Topete, General Prim, and General Serrano. Revolutionary Juntas were formed across the country. In September 1868, the Battle of Alcolea forced Queen Isabella II and her heir, Alfonso, into exile. The Cortes drafted a new constitution that was ratified in 1869.

The Constitution of 1869 established:

• National sovereignty and universal male suffrage.
• Recognition of individual rights.
• Separation of Church and State.
• A parliamentary monarchy, for which they had to choose a new king.

The Monarchy of Amadeo I (1870-1873)

Amadeo of Savoy, who was from a liberal monarchy that had contributed to the unification of Italy, was chosen to take the throne. A few days before his arrival, his main supporter, General Prim, was assassinated. Amadeo I was supported by progressives, unionists, and democrats. However, he had two strong opponents: the moderates and some representatives of the Church.

A new war began when the Carlists declared Charles VII as king and the republicans aspired to establish a republic. Many problems forced Amadeo I to abdicate and leave the country.

The First Spanish Republic (1873-1874)

When Amadeo I abdicated in February 1873, the Cortes voted to form a republic. However, most of the deputies were monarchists and did not support the new form of government. The lower social classes were happy with the result of the vote, and the republicans prepared a programme of social and economic reforms. The 1873 elections were won by the federal republicans. The Cortes drafted a federal constitution, but this never took effect.

The Republic had four presidents:

1. Figueras
2. Pi y Margall
3. Salmerón
4. Castelar

A series of problems made its proper establishment impossible:

• The divisions between the unitary and federal republicans and moderates and intransigents.
• The Carlist War in 1872.
• Increased social unrest, leading Cartagena to proclaim itself an independent canton of the state in 1873.
• The monarchist opposition that conspired to restore the monarchy through Alfonso XII.