Charles III’s Reign: Enlightened Despotism and Public Works
Charles III (1759-1788), son of Philip V and half-brother of Ferdinand VI, served as King of Naples from 1735 to 1759 before becoming King of Spain. His reign was marked by the implementation of reforms characteristic of Enlightened Despotism:
- Concern for improving the economy of his kingdom and the welfare of his subjects.
- Desire to improve the organization and rationalization of the state.
- Acceptance of the king as an “ideal enlightened man”: intellectual, lover of the sciences and arts, and political
The End of Spain’s Colonial Empire: Cuba, Philippines, and 1898
The Spanish Empire’s Colonial Liquidation: Cuba, Philippines, and 1898
In the late nineteenth century, the regime established by Cánovas del Castillo was severely impacted by a crisis stemming from colonial wars and the loss of Spain’s last overseas imperial remnants. Spain’s participation in international politics was curtailed, as it joined the ranks of the weaker, or “moribund,” nations, contrasting with the strong, or “vital,” powers.
Background to the Cuban Question
The Restoration regime faced
Read MoreWorld War II Aftermath and the Rise of Fascism
The Aftermath of World War II
Europe was devastated, its population decimated. An estimated 50 million fatalities included both military personnel and civilians. Physical destruction was widespread, primarily affecting cities, infrastructure, and industrial centers like Zaandam. Countries not directly involved in the conflict, such as Canada, Australia, and Sweden, became major suppliers and experienced significant economic growth. The war also left a profound moral impact. Border adjustments led
Read MoreHabsburg Spain’s Decline: 17th Century Challenges and Shifting Power
Factors Contributing to Spain’s 17th Century Decline
Financial Strain and Military Weakness
The **lack of financial resources** was primarily due to a significant decrease in shipments of precious metals from America between 1630 and 1660. This excessive tax burden provoked rebellions and temporary secessions within the Spanish territories. Such circumstances forced Spain to restrict its foreign policy objectives and, in many cases, compelled it to seek peace.
The **loss of military personnel** compounded
Read MoreInternational Law: The Principle of Non-Use of Force
The Principle of Non-Use of Force in International Law
The Principle of Prohibition of the Threat and Use of Force, enshrined in Article 2.4 of the Charter of the United Nations, mandates that Members of the Organization shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations.
Key Interpretations and Perspectives
- This principle
Catalan Political Evolution: From Federalism to Nationalism (1885-1939)
The “Message to the Queen Regent” and Catalan Political Context
This document serves as a primary source on late 19th-century Spanish politics, specifically concerning Catalan movements. The context revolves around the “Message to the Queen Regent,” addressed to Maria Cristina.
Background of Catalan Political Evolution
Initially, a project led by a Catalan Admiral, a federal republican, proved unfeasible. It was unsuccessful because, on one hand, the Admiral’s strong republican stance was at odds with
Read More