The Roaring Twenties & the Great Depression: A Global Economic Overview
The Roaring Twenties: Light and Shadow
The 1920s began with economic hardship, particularly after 1924. However, a period of improvement and international cooperation followed. The post-war readjustment was challenging for European economies due to destruction, inflation, and unemployment. After 1923, production increased, unemployment decreased, and living standards improved.
Authoritarian empires dissolved, and new, fragile democracies emerged. These democracies faced economic crises and social
Read MoreThe Reign of Isabella II and the Rise of Spanish Liberalism
Regency of Maria Cristina (1833-1840)
Elizabeth II’s Claim to the Throne
Born to Ferdinand VII and Maria Cristina, Isabella’s claim to the throne was contested due to the Salic Law of 1713, which prevented female succession. Ferdinand VII amended the law shortly before his death, naming Isabella as his heir. Upon his death, Maria Cristina assumed regency until Isabella came of age. However, Carlist supporters of Carlos María Isidro (Ferdinand’s brother) rejected the change and initiated the First
Mendizabal’s Disentailment Decree of 1836
Mendizabal’s Disentailment Decree
Background
This Royal Decree, drafted in Madrid on February 19, 1836, addresses the legal and economic challenges following Ferdinand VII’s death. The succession crisis between his brother, Carlos Maria Isidro, and daughter, Isabella II, ignited the First Carlist War (1833-1839). The 1834 Royal Statute, a compromise by Martinez de la Rosa, failed to reconcile the Carlists and Liberals. After Count Toreno’s limited reforms, Mendizabal, with international prestige
Read MoreManzanares Manifesto of 1854: A Turning Point in Spanish Politics
Manzanares Manifesto: A Historical Narrative
Background
This manifesto, drafted on July 7, 1854, in Manzanares, Spain, became a pivotal document in the 1854 revolution. Dissatisfaction with the existing political climate, marked by favoritism and corruption within moderate governments, fueled reactions among various factions, including moderates themselves. Progressive governments, historically excluded from power except through uprisings, saw an opportunity for change.
The Catalyst for Change
Rising
Read MoreThe Reign of Alfonso XIII and the Rise of the Second Spanish Republic
Alfonso XIII
The age of Alfonso XIII began with a serious crisis that led to the Conservatives and Liberals to initiate reforms to regenerate the political and social life. Samuels-Polavieja and Antonio Maura attempted reforms until 1909, but were a failure. While the opposition was strengthened:
– The Republicans increased with the creation of the Republican Union and the Radical Party.
– The Catalan nationalist groups reached a broad electoral victory (Catalan Solidarity).
– Socialism (PSOE)
Read MoreThe Reconquista and the Rise of the Spanish Monarchy
The Reconquista (722-1492)
The Resistance (8th-11th Centuries)
The Reconquista, a period of fluctuating Christian-Muslim conflict, spanned from the early 8th century to the late 15th century. Driven by a combination of population growth, feudal expansion, and religious motivations, the Christian kingdoms gradually reclaimed territories conquered by the Muslims. Early resistance emerged in northern Spain, forming pockets of Christian power:
- The Kingdom of Asturias: Following the victory at Covadonga