The Democratic Sexenio (1868-1874): A Period of Political and Social Upheaval in Spain
The Democratic Sexenio (1868-1874)
Overview
The Revolution of September 1868, known as “The Glorious Revolution,” marked the end of Isabel II’s monarchy and ushered in the Democratic Sexenio (1868-1874), a period of intense political and social upheaval in Spain. This era, characterized by the search for a new political and social order, saw the rise of the petty bourgeoisie and the nascent labor movement.
The Sexenio represented the final stage of Spain’s liberal revolution and an attempt to establish democracy. However, it was plagued by conflicts: political (the rise of federalism, the Carlist War, the Cuban War), social (demands of the popular classes, the emergence of socialist and anarchist movements), and economic (crisis and struggles between protectionists and free traders).
Ultimately, the bourgeoisie failed to stabilize a democratic regime. The Sexenio’s modernization attempts faltered, leading to the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy under Alfonso XII.
Stages of the Democratic Sexenio
- The Glorious Revolution (1868)
- The Provisional Government (1869-1870)
- The Monarchy of Amadeo I of Savoy (1871-1873)
- The First Spanish Republic (1873-1874)
The Revolution of 1868
Growing social unrest and the discrediting of Isabel II’s government led to the 1868 revolution. Following the failed San Gil barracks revolt in 1866, military and civilian forces united. General Prim formed an alliance with the Democratic Party in Ostend, aiming for regime change and the convening of Constituent Cortes.
An economic crisis, marked by food shortages and disease, further fueled the revolution. In September 1868, the revolution erupted with the cry “Long live Spain with honor!” Revolutionary juntas formed across the country, demanding sovereignty, freedom, the abolition of conscription and taxes, separation of church and state, universal suffrage, and even property redistribution and the proclamation of a republic.
Military leaders like Prim, Topete, and Serrano led the insurrection. Isabel II, vacationing in the Basque Country, fled to France. The Battle of Alcolea saw Serrano defeat the loyalist forces. Prim consolidated support in coastal cities, securing Barcelona’s adherence on October 3rd. The revolution marked the beginning of the Democratic Sexenio.
The Provisional Government (1868-1870)
Following Isabel II’s exile, revolutionary juntas organized throughout Spain. In Madrid, a provisional government, led by General Serrano, was formed. The government, supported by the army and pressured by revolutionary juntas and militias, implemented the revolution’s principles, including freedom of the press, association, assembly, and universal male suffrage.
Elections for a Constituent Parliament were held in January 1869, marking the first time universal male suffrage was recognized in Spain. The pro-monarchy coalition government won, but Carlist and Republican minorities emerged. The Cortes convened in February 1869 and adopted a new constitution on June 1st, 1869.