Spanish Transition: From Monarchy to Revolution
War of Independence, Cortes de Cádiz (1808-1814)
Fontainebleau Treaty and French Occupation
The Fontainebleau Treaty, signed by Godoy and Napoleon, aimed to divide Portugal and its overseas territories between France and Spain. French troops entered Spain under the pretense of conquering Portugal, but Napoleon’s true intention was to occupy the entire Iberian Peninsula and install his brother, Joseph Bonaparte, as king.
Aranjuez Mutiny
Godoy’s plan to relocate the royal family to Seville was met with resistance. The Prince of Asturias, Fernando, and factions opposed to Godoy instigated the Aranjuez Mutiny in March 1808. This led to Godoy’s downfall and Charles IV’s abdication in favor of Fernando VII.
Bayonne Abdication and Joseph Bonaparte’s Reign
Napoleon summoned Charles IV and Fernando VII to Bayonne and forced them to abdicate in favor of Joseph Bonaparte. An assembly of Spanish notables approved the Statute of Bayonne, a constitution granted by Napoleon, legitimizing Joseph I’s reign. Enlightened courtiers saw this as an opportunity to implement liberal reforms.
May 2nd Uprising
The new political order was unstable. On May 2, 1808, a popular uprising erupted in Madrid, sparked by the departure of the royal family. The revolt spread throughout Spain, with provincial defense boards formed to resist French rule and organize military opposition.
Militarism in Spanish Political Life (1840-1868)
Municipalities Act and Espartero’s Regency
Military intervention became a key factor in Spanish politics. The Municipalities Act of 1840 led to an insurrection, forcing María Cristina’s resignation and General Baldomero Espartero’s regency. Espartero’s regency faced instability due to divisions within liberalism.
Isabel II’s Reign and the 1845 Constitution
The move towards modernism ended with Isabel II’s coronation in 1844 and the implementation of the 1845 Constitution, which established a moderate liberal framework. The Crown and Parliament shared sovereignty, with the Crown holding significant prerogatives. The Concordat of 1851 addressed church-state relations.
Moderate Control and Centralization
Moderates controlled the political system, emphasizing centralism. Key actions included the 1845 City Council Law, tax reform, the 1848 Criminal Code, and the creation of the Civil Guard.
1854 Revolution and the Progressive Biennium
Internal factions within the moderate party led to a military coup in 1854, prompting the return of Espartero. The progressive biennium saw the unsuccessful 1856 Constitution, the General Confiscation Act of 1855, the Railway Act of 1855, and increased social conflict.
Collapse of Isabel II’s Monarchy
Instability marked the final years of Isabel II’s reign. The Moderate Biennium (1856-1858) saw a return to pre-1854 institutions. O’Donnell’s Liberal Union government (1858-1863) aimed for broader political inclusion and international prestige. Growing opposition to Isabel II culminated in the 1868 revolution.