Spanish Bourbon Reforms and the War of Independence
State Reforms under the Bourbons
Legal and Institutional Unification
The first three Bourbon kings implemented significant legal and institutional changes, consolidating the monarchy. Special privileges and institutions of the Crown of Aragon were abolished, replaced by viceroyalties and captaincies general. Special courts and foral agencies were also removed. This achieved the goal of a united monarchy, while respecting the privileges of Basque and Navarre.
Evolution of Councils and Secretaries
Councils gradually transformed into Secretaries of State, with varying numbers and responsibilities. The Councils declined, leaving only the Council of Castile as the highest political organ, presided over by the king.
Intendants and Administrative Divisions
The Bourbons introduced administrative divisions based on the French model, headed by intendants, trusted men acting as territorial delegates within the provinces.
Reforms of the Royal Treasury (Hacienda Real)
The Royal Treasury under the Habsburgs suffered from constant war overspending, with Castile bearing the brunt of the tax burden. Poor organization and collector enrichment led to low incomes. The Bourbons implemented reforms to address these issues:
- Philip V: Introduced the contribution of Aragon.
- Ferdinand VI: Implemented the Cadastre of Ensenada.
- Charles III: Introduced actual vouchers.
Church-State Relations and the Expulsion of the Jesuits
The Bourbons advocated for royal superiority over the Church, aiming to create a regalist state dominated by the monarch. This included requiring royal permission for clerical appointments. The expulsion of the Jesuits exemplified this regalism, driven by their immense power, obedience to the Pope, and perceived threat to the monarchy.
The Uprising of May 2nd and the War of Independence
May 2nd Uprising
The popular uprising in Madrid on May 2nd, 1808, marked the beginning of the War of Independence. The events leading up to the uprising included restrictions on the press, public gatherings, and the events in Bayonne.
The War of Independence (1808-1814)
The war saw the rise of Spanish nationalism and patriotic resistance against the French. Local and provincial boards were formed, eventually culminating in the Central Junta and later the Regency Council in Cadiz. The war involved two main sides: the French-occupied Spain under Joseph I Bonaparte, supported by pro-French factions, and the resistance forces comprised of liberals and conservatives.
Background to the War
Treaty of Fontainebleau and the Mutiny of Aranjuez
The Treaty of Fontainebleau (1807) allowed French troops into Spain. This, coupled with food shortages and discontent, led to the Mutiny of Aranjuez, where Charles IV abdicated in favor of his son, Ferdinand VII. Godoy and Ferdinand VII sought Napoleon’s aid.
Abdications and Events in Bayonne
In Bayonne, Charles IV abdicated to Napoleon, who then named his brother, Joseph Bonaparte, as King of Spain. Napoleon’s aim was to make Spain a satellite state.
Early Stages of the War (May-November 1808)
French armies deployed across the peninsula, encountering resistance. Key battles included Bailén. Napoleon’s arrival in Spain led to further conflict and the rise of guerrilla warfare.
Guerrilla Warfare and French Advances (November 1808 – January 1812)
Guerrilla warfare, exploiting local knowledge, became a key element of the Spanish resistance. The French achieved victories, controlling roads and cities, while facing resistance in rural and mountainous areas. The Battle of Ocaña in 1810 was a significant Spanish defeat.
End of the War (January 1812-1814)
Napoleon withdrew troops from Spain for other campaigns. Wellington’s British army defeated the French at Arapiles. Allied forces (British, Portuguese, and Spanish) won the Battle of San Marcial in 1813. The Treaty of Valençay in 1813 restored Ferdinand VII to the throne.