Spain’s Second Republic: History, Reforms, and Opposition
The Second Republic
After the dictatorship of Primo de Rivera, Alfonso XIII appointed General Berenguer as head of government, tasking him with preparing elections to restore constitutional legality.
The Proclamation of the Republic
When municipal elections were announced, opposition to the monarchy and the existing political system coalesced into a coalition (Pact of San Sebastián, 1930) to contest the elections. The elections favored the coalition, leading to a dramatic change. Consequently, Alfonso
Read MoreThe 18th Century: Enlightenment, Politics, and Revolution
The 18th Century: A Period of Transition
1) The 18th century was a period of transition between the early modern age and the modern age in Europe. During this period, important changes took place leading to the collapse of the ancient regime and marked the end of the early modern age. One of the main developments in this century was an intellectual movement called the Enlightenment. This movement used reason, science, and education to combat ignorance and reform society.
- Absolute monarchs introduced
Primo de Rivera’s Dictatorship: Military Rule & Civil Directory
Primo de Rivera’s Dictatorship: Coup and Military Directory
On September 13, 1923, Miguel Primo de Rivera published a manifesto in which he proposed the establishment of a military board to achieve the salvation of the country. Alfonso XIII found this a good start to solve the problems Spain was suffering and appointed him as Chairman of the Military Board of Ministers. This involved the removal of constitutional institutions and the suspension of political parties and trade unions.
The state of war
Read MoreEuropean Absolutism and Enlightenment: A Historical Examination
1. Absolutism as a Political Regime
Absolutism, a hierarchical system with political and religious support, manifested as an absolute monarchy linked to inherited dynasties. Key characteristics include:
- The monarch embodied the state and held absolute power.
- The monarch, an aristocrat, was considered “first among equals” within the nobility.
- Strong religious support reinforced the idea of divine right.
- Limited legal constraints on the monarch’s power.
- European assemblies (estates) still existed.
- Permanent
Rise of Fascism: Origins, Characteristics, and Italy’s Dictatorship
The Rise of Fascism: From Post-War Turmoil to Dictatorship
Introduction: The period following World War I saw the rise of various forms of authoritarianism, including in Hungary, Turkey, and the Soviet Union. The interwar years were marked by political, economic, and social problems. Population growth, territorial claims, and the desire for self-determination fueled conflicts. Initially, the fear of a Soviet-style revolution gripped the bourgeoisie. The brief period of peace ended with the economic
Read MoreJosé Antonio Páez: Life of the Venezuelan Leader
On June 13, 1790, José Antonio Páez was born in a modest house on the banks of the creek near the town of Curpa, Acarigua, Araure Canton, province of Barinas, Venezuela. He was baptized in the parish church of that town. His parents were Juan Victorio Páez and María Violante Herrera. He was the last of their children and the only survivor of eight brothers. Their family fortune was very low. His father served the colonial government as an employee in the tobacco business, and later established
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