Glossary of Spanish History: Key Terms & Concepts
Africa
Referred to the military, specifically those who spent most of their careers in the colonial army stationed in the Protectorate of Morocco. The constant battles to subdue the Rif tribes, while costly in lives, allowed survivors to quickly climb the military ranks through merit-based promotions earned in war (Franco, a notable Africanist, became a general at 33). Envied by other officers, they developed a caste spirit and became hostile towards politicians. Their experience in Africa significantly
Read MoreFranco’s Dictatorship: Guerrilla Warfare, Exile, and International Relations
The Post-Civil War Period (1939-1945)
The Guerrilla
The political organizations that formed the Popular Front split, faced exile, and confronted each other. Aware of the magnitude of the defeat, the Socialists pinned their hopes on regime change through the intervention of the democratic powers. They sought to encourage and promote agreements with anti-Franco democratic organizations, which vetoed the presence of the PCE (Communist Party of Spain). As it had no influence on governments, the PCE held
Read MoreThe Return of Fernando VII and the Absolutist Regime in Spain
The Return of Fernando VII and the Absolutist Regime in Spain (1814-1820)
Historical Context
Upon Fernando VII’s return to Spain in 1814 following the Napoleonic Wars, the nation erupted in enthusiastic celebration. However, the King’s intentions regarding the changes that had occurred during his absence quickly became clear. On May 4th, after being received by General Elio in Valencia, he issued a royal decree abolishing the Cortes of Cádiz, declaring all its actions void, and effectively abolishing
Read MoreThe Restoration in Spain: Monarchy and Politics (1875-1898)
The Restoration in Spain (1875-1898)
Introduction
In 1875, the Bourbon dynasty was restored in Spain, bringing back some features of Isabel II’s reign, particularly concerning the political landscape. The major parties, now called Conservative and Liberal, were heirs to the old Moderate and Progressive groups. This period encompasses the reign of Alfonso XII and the Regency of María Cristina of Habsburg, governed by the Constitution of 1876. It was a time significantly impacted by the Cuban War and
Read MoreCharles IV, Godoy, Napoleon & the Spanish War of Independence
Charles IV and the Road to War
A Weak King in Tumultuous Times
Charles IV, successor to his father Charles III, proved to be a weak and indecisive king, ill-equipped to handle the challenges facing Spain. The French Revolution of 1789 sent shockwaves across European monarchies, fearing the spread of revolutionary ideals. In response, Prime Minister Marquis de Floridablanca closed Spain’s borders with France and implemented censorship.
The Rise of Godoy
Aranda, briefly in power, advocated neutrality,
Read MoreThe Restoration in Spain: Political Order and Constitution of 1876
1. The Sandhurst Manifesto: Canovas’ Vision for Spain
Antonio Cánovas del Castillo’s political regime in 1875 reflected both the strengths and weaknesses of the era. This period is often referred to as the Spain of Cánovas. The Sandhurst Manifesto, written by Cánovas and sent by the young Alfonso XII on December 1, 1874, serves as the best summary of Cánovas’ project for the Alfonsine Restoration. This document, a response to the numerous birthday congratulations Alfonso received, perfectly synthesizes
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