Regionalism and Nationalism in Spain During the Restoration
Regionalism and Nationalism (Labor Movement) During the Restoration
Political Opposition and the Rise of Regionalism and Nationalism
During the reign of Alfonso XIII, the Restoration faced increasing criticism. The regional and national labor movements, along with Republicans and Carlists, emerged as significant political opposition groups. The Restoration’s victory initially established a centralized state model. However, political and cultural manifestations soon arose, known as regionalism and nationalism. These movements sought recognition of a region’s distinct identity and advocated for greater autonomy and self-governance, sometimes even independence.
Regionalism vs. Nationalism
Regionalism emphasizes the promotion of regional cultural traditions and the defense of particularism, advocating for a decentralized state without necessarily seeking separation. Nationalism, on the other hand, goes further by advocating for complete independence.
Regionalism and Nationalism in Catalonia
Catalan nationalism experienced significant growth during the Restoration. Two main factions existed: the conservative, traditional Catalan monarchical rights and a more prominent trend representing the industrial bourgeoisie’s interests. This latter group, led by Prat de la Riba, advocated for a federal state and founded the Regional League in 1901. In 1904, under his presidency, the Commonwealth of Catalonia was established, aiming to integrate the four Catalan provinces under a single autonomous government. The other faction, the Catalan Republican Left, held less nationalist views and gained strength in the 1920s, representing the working class.
Basque Nationalism
Basque nationalism originated from the discontent caused by the abolition of regional privileges, including legislative power. Sabino Arana, founder of the PNV in 1894, became a key figure. Basque nationalism was characterized by ultra-conservative Catholicism, racism, and xenophobia. It experienced a decline after Arana’s death.
Other Regional Nationalisms
Galician, Andalusian, and Canarian nationalism remained less prominent. In the Canary Islands, Secundino Delgado, linked to the Cuban independence movement and an anarchist, played a significant role in promoting nationalist sentiment.
The Labor Movement in Spain
The Spanish labor movement gained momentum during the Restoration, particularly from 1887. The proletariat consisted of industrial workers, miners, and agricultural laborers. Two ideologies, anarchism and socialism, competed for influence.
Anarchism
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