Bourbon Restoration in Spain: 1874-1923
The Bourbon Restoration (1874-1923)
This document examines the Bourbon Restoration in Spain, a period spanning from 1874 to 1923. The historical context is characterized by a desire for stability, initially achieved through the Bourbon Restoration and the consolidation of the Cánovas system. However, the subsequent collapse of this system led to the crisis of 1898 and renewed political instability.
The Restoration marked the return of the Bourbon monarchy and an oligarchic system of governance. It represents the most stable and enduring political system in contemporary Spanish history.
Two key historical documents (not detailed here) provide further insight into this period:
- “First document…”
- “Second document…”
This analysis will also incorporate the following key concepts:
- Oligarchic despotism
- Typecasting
- Rigging
- Electoral fraud
- Cliques
- Espadones (military figures with political influence)
To fully understand the Restoration, it’s necessary to consider the events leading up to it, from the Battle of Alcolea to the Sandhurst Manifesto:
The reign of Isabella II and the liberal state were marked by instability and constant changes in government, alternating between conservative and progressive factions. These governments were often controlled by espadones, high-ranking military figures who wielded significant social and political power, often imposing their will by force.
Attempts to introduce democratic liberalism further complicated Spanish politics, leading to a provisional government, a brief monarchy, and a new form of government: the First Republic. These rapid changes resulted in instability and radicalism, ultimately paving the way for the return of the Bourbon monarchy under the guidance of Cánovas del Castillo, who orchestrated the return of Alfonso XII.
Political Evolution of the Restoration
The political evolution of the Restoration can be divided into three stages:
- The reign of Alfonso XII (1875-1885)
- The regency of Maria Christina of Austria (1885-1902)
- The second reign of Alfonso XIII (1902-1931). Although the Restoration formally ended in 1931, its effective end came in 1923.
This period is also known as the Cánovas system, as Cánovas del Castillo was instrumental in its creation and implementation. He was the author of the Manifesto of Manzanares and a key figure in the Vicalvarada. Cánovas, a conservative and admirer of the British two-party system, successfully implemented a similar model in Spain.
This system persisted until 1923 when Primo de Rivera ended civilian rule. Cánovas del Castillo remains a highly admired figure among Spanish conservatives.
Caciquismo and the Restoration
Caciquismo, a system where a minority exerts control over the majority, often through electoral manipulation, played a crucial role in maintaining the balance between “Real Spain” and “Official Spain” during the Restoration. Although not exclusive to this period (it existed during the reign of Isabella II, the Republic, and the Franco regime), caciquismo reached its peak during the Restoration. The cacique, a local or tribal leader, acted as an intermediary, a role with historical roots dating back to the Inca period. Caciques frequently abused their power, resorting to electoral fraud and other forms of manipulation. This abuse of power is what gives the term its negative political connotation.
The internal constitution is a product of the history of Spain and consists of: a hereditary monarchy and the Cortes (Parliament), the repository of sovereignty and historical tradition. These two institutions are products of tradition; in fact, Franco also opted for them.