Amadeo I and the First Spanish Republic

Posted on Dec 1, 2024 in History

Six Democratic Years (1868-1874): Reign of Amadeo I

Definition

The Sexenio Democrático (1868-1874) marks the period from Isabella II’s overthrow to Alfonso XII’s restoration. It includes the democratic monarchy of Amadeo I and the First Republic.

Causes

The Glorious Revolution in Cádiz ousted Isabella II due to:

  1. Monarchy’s Discredit: Due to the queen’s personal life and reactionary views.
  2. Democratic Ideas: Rise of universal suffrage and religious freedom.
  3. Economic Crisis: Financial and agrarian crisis of 1866, linked to railway construction.

Opposition parties formed the Pact of Ostend (1866), rejecting the Bourbons and advocating for a Constituent Cortes with universal male suffrage. The revolution led to Isabella II’s exile and a provisional government, which:

  1. Established freedoms of association, expression, education, and religion.
  2. Enacted free-market economic measures.
  3. Favored a monarchical regime, causing divisions.

The Constitution of 1869 was drafted, granting rights and freedoms, proclaiming national sovereignty, and establishing a democratic monarchy.

A regent was appointed to find a king, leading to Amadeo of Savoy’s election in 1871.

Reign of Amadeo I

Challenges:

  1. Division: Prim’s assassination divided supporters into Constitutional and Radical parties.
  2. Opposition: Nobility, clergy, Republicans, labor movements, Carlists, and Alfonsine monarchists opposed Amadeo.

Wars:

  1. Carlist War (1872-1876): Led by Carlos VII, defending traditional rights.
  2. Cuban War (1868-1878): Fueled by independence desires and the slavery issue.

Amadeo I abdicated in 1873, leading to the First Republic.

The First Republic (1873-1874)

Marked by political and social divisions, the Republic failed to solve the country’s problems.

  1. Republican Divisions: Unitarians, Federalists, and Cantonalists clashed.
  2. Social Issues: Varying stances on labor movements and the International Workingmen’s Association (IWA).
  3. Cantonalist Uprisings: Followed Pi y Margall’s federalist constitution project.
  4. Military Coup: General Pavia dissolved the Cortes, leading to Serrano’s dictatorship.

Consequences

  1. Bourbon Restoration: Martinez Campos’ coup led to Alfonso XII’s return.
  2. Political Stability: Sought through a moderated government.
  3. Army Moderation: The army’s role shifted towards moderation.