Spain’s Democratic Sexenio: Revolution & Change (1868-1874)
The historical period 1868-1874 is known as the Democratic Sexenio because, for the first time, the ideas of universal suffrage and social rights appeared in Spanish political life. It has also received the adjective “Revolutionary” because, during these six years, the country experienced a turbulent period of political changes, social movements, armed conflict, and failed attempts at solutions.
In this short span of time, numerous political changes occurred, including frequent changes in government, and various modifications to the regime, such as a Regency, a change of dynasty, and the establishment of a Republic, which itself underwent several variations.
Throughout this stage, the most affluent sectors of the bourgeoisie, whether monarchical or republican, contended with the revolutionary sectors. Ultimately, the revolutionary sectors were defeated.
September Revolution & Provisional Government
Political, economic, and social unrest, simmering for years, led to the proclamation by Admiral Juan Bautista Topete in the Bay of Cádiz on September 19, 1868. The Isabelline political model, built around the Moderate and Unionist parties, had become exhausted. In 1866, a coalition of Progressive forces, disgruntled Democrats, and Unionists signed the Pact of Ostend, which marked the beginning of a movement that ultimately ended the reign of Isabella II.
The Glorious Revolution
The military uprising in September triggered a revolutionary movement known as La Gloriosa (The Glorious Revolution). This revolution had several peculiarities:
- It resulted from an alliance between Progressives and Unionists, with the approval of the Democrats.
- Prestigious military figures (such as Prim, Serrano, etc.) intervened.
- There was a significant presence of civilians from the bourgeois and middle classes.
- The aim was to overthrow the Queen, not just end a specific government.
- Its spread was rapid, and its success led to a broad program of reforms.
The truly revolutionary ideas were contributed by the Democratic Party. Their demands focused on:
- Universal suffrage.
- The abolition of unpopular measures like consumption taxes and compulsory military service (the quinta).
- Advocacy for the middle and working classes.
However, it is also argued that it was a movement organized from above, by political and military powers, whose goals were to:
- End the parliamentary deadlock, fostered by the Queen and her court, which prevented the Progressives from governing.
- Address the poor economic situation, which affected the interests of investors in railway companies.
In this sense, it was a “distorted” revolution, as the revolutionary committees and grassroots movements, often led by Democrats, were soon sidelined or persecuted. The aim of the revolution, therefore, was to complete the transition initiated in 1833 towards a fully bourgeois society, underpinned by an effective capitalist system, benefiting businessmen connected to political power.
Following the uprising in Cádiz, the revolution quickly spread throughout the peninsula. In San Sebastián, where the royal family was vacationing, the news stunned the court. The government was replaced by one led by a military figure. However, the inability to suppress the rebellion became clear on September 28th in the battle between rebel troops, led by Serrano, and those loyal to the Queen. This battle occurred at the Bridge of Alcolea (Córdoba). The rebels were victorious, prompting Isabella II and her court to abandon the country for France.
The collapsing government handed over power in Madrid to a revolutionary junta, tasked with managing the transition. The first juntas were formed in Andalusia and Barcelona, followed by many others across the peninsula. However, the potential for radical change was quickly curtailed. In general, the revolutionary program