Construcción do Estado Liberal en España (1833-1868)

Spanish Liberal State Construction (1833-1868)

• Fernando VII's death in 1833 not only marked the end of an era but they also triggered a significant shift in Spanish politics, leading to an unstable power dynamic. His daughter, Maria Cristina, assumed the regency during a tumultuous period marked by intense Carlist opposition, which was notably supported by the Church and the peasant communities in the Northern regions of Spain. This conflict was deeply rooted in ideological differences regarding monarchy and governance, leading to a division within the country.

  The First Carlist War, which unfolded between 1833 and 1839, became a critical struggle between traditionalist forces loyal to Carlos, the brother of Fernando VII, and the liberals who sought to advance a more modern state. The eventual triumph of the liberal factions in this conflict underscored the growing momentum of liberalism despite the ongoing resistance from conservative elements within society.

  In 1834, the Statute Real was issued as a royal charter attempting to satisfy the growing demands for modernization. While it did incorporate some liberal principles into the governmental framework, it fell short of establishing comprehensive national sovereignty, reflecting a compromise that would often characterize Spanish politics during this period. This charter served as a stepping stone, signaling the monarchy's reluctant acknowledgment of the need for reforms.

  The economic crises of the mid-1830s fueled widespread dissatisfaction, resulting in numerous popular uprisings and social unrest in 1835. This upheaval impelled the Prime Minister Mendizábal to undertake substantial reforms, including significant church dispossession policies aimed at redistributing wealth and resources that had been tightly held by the clergy.

  The military revolt of 1836 was a critical juncture that ultimately compelled the restoration of the liberal Constitution of 1812, which had been a hallmark of earlier revolutionary aspirations. This restoration represented a renewed commitment to the principles of liberal democracy, although it faced challenges in implementation.

  The 1837 Constitution represented a consequential step forward in establishing progressive liberalism in Spain, marking a tactical compromise between radical and moderate factions in Spanish society. By embracing elements of national sovereignty, it aimed to balance power between the monarchy and parliamentary governance, laying the groundwork for future constitutional developments.

  Key Features of the 1837 Constitution

  The principle of national sovereignty emerged as a key tenet, emphasizing that the authority of the government derived from the will of the people rather than divine right. This notion was crucial in shaping Spain's political landscape moving forward.

  The establishment of a bicameral legislature comprising a Congress and a Senate, along with the introduction of censitary suffrage, was a significant advance, even though it primarily benefited the upper classes, reflecting an ongoing struggle for broader electoral rights across the social spectrum.

  While the constitution advocated for a separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, it did so within the framework of royal prerogatives, meaning that the monarchy still retained considerable influence over governmental decisions.

  Furthermore, this constitutional framework contained an explicit declaration of individual rights, which included freedoms such as that of the press, a component that would spark discussions about civil liberties and governmental limits in the years to come.

  The 1840s: Espartero's Regency and the Moderate Response

  Espartero's regency from 1840 to 1843 was marked by considerable opposition from various factions, including conservatives and moderates who disagreed with the more radical approaches to governance and reform. His leadership was constantly challenged, resulting in political instability and a fracturing of liberal unity.

  The adoption of the 1845 Constitution indicated a significant ideological shift towards moderate liberalism, highlighting the complexities of achieving consensus in a society deeply divided over the direction of governance.

  This document established a framework for shared sovereignty between the Crown and the Cortes, thus limiting suffrage to a select portion of the populace, which reflected the prevailing moderate sentiment that aimed to appease conservative concerns while still promoting some principles of liberal governance.

  The implementation of restrictions on individual freedoms, including increased censorship and adherence to religious conformity, manifested the moderation in political ideology and elucidated fears surrounding potential radical consequences of more liberal policies.

  The 1850's and the Rise of Progressivism

  The Progressive Biennium between 1854 and 1856 emerged in the wake of the Vicalvarada military revolt, which called for reform and a renewed commitment to progressive policies.

  Leading figures such as Espartero and O'Donnell advocated for a progressive government, pushing the boundaries of political reform and change in Spain, striving to enhance civil participation and economic development.

  A proposed new constitution in 1856 was shaped by progressive ideals that aimed to deepen the democratic foundations of governance though it ultimately failed to be enacted, illustrating the continued struggle between progressive aspirations and the realities of political power.

Efforts to address economic disparities continued through church dispossession measures, impacting local economies and communities in both beneficial and detrimental ways, as land and wealth redistribution proved contentious.

Legislation introduced in 1855 specifically aimed at promoting railway construction was a forward-thinking strategy to bolster national infrastructure and economic growth, reflecting a recognition of the need for modernization in transport and commerce.

The 1860s and the Republican Movement

The 1866 Pact of Ostende sought to unite various opposition factions against the Bourbon monarchy, signaling a growing desire among progressive and republican groups to initiate substantive change within the political system.

The Glorious Revolution of 1868 was a watershed moment in Spanish history, resulting in the ousting of Isabel II and ushering in the Democratic Sexennium, a period characterized by political experimentation and reform.

This time aimed at establishing a more democratic political framework, with movements pressing for universal male suffrage, reflecting a broader commitment to enfranchise a larger segment of the population and ensure greater political representation.

As calls for a new constitution emerged, these reflected both progressive and republican ideals, underpinning the aspirations for a political system that embraced broader democratic principles and aimed to dismantle old power structures.

Este cuestionario explora a construción do Estado liberal en España durante o período de 1833 a 1868. Inclúe eventos clave como a morte de Fernando VII, a guerra carlista e a evolución da Constitución de 1837. Acompáñano detalles sobre os principios liberais e os conflitos sociais da época.