Isabel II’s Reign: Political Parties and Key Events
Reign of Isabel II (1843-1868)
During the 25-year reign of Isabel II, two political parties alternated in government:
- Moderate Party: Led by Narváez. Shared sovereignty; restricted suffrage; Catholic state; Limitation of individual rights.
- Progressive Party: Led by Espartero. National sovereignty; Less restrictive suffrage; Freedom of religion; Large individual rights.
The Queen favored moderate governments, so the progressives could only access power through uprisings. Two new parties emerged: the
Read More19th Century Europe: Restoration, Revolutions, and Unification
The Restoration and the Ancient Régime
The Restoration & the Ancient Régime was a return to the political system of the Ancient Régime that was imposed by the victorious European powers (Austria, Prussia, Russia, and Great Britain) after Napoleon’s defeat in 1815.
- Absolute monarchies
Spain Under Primo de Rivera: Military and Civil Rule
The Dictatorship of Primo de Rivera (1923-1930)
The coup of Primo de Rivera came a year after Mussolini’s accession to power in Italy. While the dictatorship of Primo de Rivera was not fascist, it was heir to the regenerationist theory: order in the country. During the early years of the dictatorship, many social sectors generally welcomed it. Rural Spain, controlled by the chiefs, supported the dictatorship all the way, and others collaborated with them, at least initially; this was the case of
Read MoreKey Figures & Events: Spanish Second Republic
Republican Action
It was the first progressive and republican political grouping, founded in 1925 by Manuel Azaña, under the name of Political Action. In 1930, it became a political party, adopting the name Republican Action. Among its defining characteristics were its support for autonomy, anticlericalism, commitment to agrarian reform, and reform of the army. In 1930, the left-wing sector of the party, led by Marcelino Domingo, split off and formed the Radical Socialist Republican Party (PRS).
Read MoreWorld War I: Causes, Responsibilities, and Global Impact
World War I: Outbreak and Responsibilities
The war erupted in Europe, but most European powers possessed colonies around the world, leading to clashes on other continents. Japan and the United States intervened, drawing countries like Brazil and China into the conflict. This intervention transformed what began as a European war into a global war.
The war started in the Balkans, a region with a history of conflict. On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Habsburg, heir to the Austro-Hungarian
Read MoreSpanish Succession, Enlightened Despotism & Inquisition
War of Succession and the Utrecht System
In 1700, Charles II died childless, proclaiming Philip of Anjou, grandson of King Louis XIV of France, as his heir. Charles of Habsburg also had a claim to the throne, leading to the War of the Spanish Succession in 1701. The Hague formed the Grand Alliance against Louis XIV. In Spain, Philip V gained support in Catalonia, Aragon, and Castile, while others sided with Austria.
By 1705, the conflict became a civil war in Europe, marked by Austrian victories.
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