The Reformist Biennium of 1931-1933: Key Changes in Spain
15.1. The Constitution of 1931: The Reformist Biennium (1931-1933)
In the elections of April 12, Republican success surprised everyone; it was known that this vote was controlled by the caciques handling. In this way, the Republic was proclaimed on April 14, and the King, who tried to use force, left the throne. The Republican Revolutionary Committee was the provisional government, formed by Republican conservatives, radicals, socialists, and autonomist Action. Following Republican and San Sebastián
Read More18th Century Spanish Bourbons: Rise and Reforms
18th Century Spain: Dynastic Change and Early Bourbons
Felipe V (1701-1746)
A man of wavering stability and ill health, Philip V initially struggled with the responsibilities of governing Spain. Often indecisive, he relied heavily on his advisors. During the War of Succession, French administrators largely dictated policy. This alienated the Spanish aristocracy, as the administration favored professional bureaucrats.
In 1714, following the death of his first wife, Philip married Elisabeth Farnese.
Read MoreSpain’s Popular Front: 1936 Election & Civil War Prelude
The Popular Front
Rating: A political text, functioning as an electoral program for the Popular Front, enacted on January 15, 1936.
Analysis: This text outlines the Popular Front’s program, stating that participating political parties reached a basic agreement and appealed to other forces to join the coalition.
Historical Context
The influence of the CEDA in the government grew, leading to a more rigorous and tougher policy. Gil Robles became Minister of War, and Franco, Chief of Staff. This sparked
Read MoreReign of Ferdinand VII: Absolutism vs. Liberalism in Spain
Fernando VII: Restoration of the Old Regime
Following the War of Independence, Ferdinand VII returned to Spain and reinstated the Old Regime. His reign (1814-1833) was marked by conflict between liberalism and absolutism, amidst the gradual dismantling of the ancien régime.
The First Absolutist Restoration
Initially welcomed, Ferdinand VII quickly restored his absolute power, annulling the constitution and dissolving the Cortes. The Manifesto of the Persians, supported by General Elio, urged the reintroduction
Read MorePeloponnesian War: Thucydides vs Herodotus
Peloponnesian War by Thucydides
Thucydides wrote the history of the Peloponnesian War, a profound shock for the Greeks. Greece was inhabited by stable clusters of villages without a modern state, sharing only a common language. They lacked wealth and cultivated land, with insecure trade and communication. Each tribe worked its land for sustenance, not accumulating riches or planting extensively.
The Spartans claimed the war’s cause was the breaking of the Euboea covenant, but it was actually their
Read MoreGlobalization: Rise of Free Trade in 19th Century Europe
Item 12: Globalization – Theory and Concepts
The importance of long-distance trade grew enormously and rapidly in the 19th century, particularly between 1840 and 1873. Migration and investment abroad accelerated. Europe became the dynamic center. However, two types of obstacles hindered international trade:
- Natural Obstacles: High transportation costs.
- Artificial Barriers: Tariffs and bans on imports/exports.
Great Britain Opts for Free Trade
Practical considerations forced governments to reconsider
Read More