Reign of Isabel II: Liberalism and Carlist Wars in Spain
Regency of Maria Cristina (1833 – 1840)
In the final years of Fernando VII’s life, Isabel de Borbón was born. Anticipating a female heir, the king approved the Pragmatic Sanction, abolishing the Salic Law which excluded women from the throne. Carlos María Isidro was thus barred from succession, leading to the First Carlist War (1833-1839).
First Carlist War (1833-1839)
The war pitted Isabel’s supporters (army, Church, State, and Liberals) against the Carlists (supporters of absolutism and traditional rights). Key figures were Carlist Zumalacárregui and Liberal Espartero. The war ended with the Convention of Vergara (1839), promising respect for Basque-Navarrese charters.
Political Developments: 1833-1843
Maria Cristina’s regency saw the implementation of liberalism. The Royal Charter of 1834 was enacted, followed by the confiscation of church property under Juan Alvarez Mendizabal. Liberalism split into Moderates and Progressives, leading to political instability and uprisings.
Regency of Espartero (1840-1843)
Espartero became President of the Council of Regency, implementing progressive reforms. However, his authoritarian style led to opposition, culminating in his exile.
Reign of Isabel II
The Moderate Decade (1844-1854)
Narváez initiated reforms strengthening the Crown and centralizing administration. Key measures included the Constitution of 1845, the Civil Guard, and the Concordat of 1851 with the Church. Favoritism and corruption led to the fall of the Moderates.
The Progressive Biennium (1854-1856)
The Manifesto of Manzanares sparked a revolution, leading to Espartero and O’Donnell’s joint rule. The Constitution of 1856 (never enacted) reflected progressive ideals. O’Donnell’s coup ended the period, ushering in his presidency.