The Fall of the Spanish Monarchy and the Rise of the Second Republic
The Fall of the Spanish Monarchy
Background
After the resignation of Primo de Rivera in 1930, Spain faced internal problems exacerbated by the global economic crisis. The Republican opposition, organized by the Pact of San Sebastián, gained momentum.
Abdication of Alfonso XIII
In the municipal elections of 1931, Republican parties won a majority. King Alfonso XIII abdicated, and the Republic was proclaimed on April 14, 1931.
The Second Republic
Establishment and Reforms
The Republic established a provisional government and held elections for a Constituent Cortes. The Socialist coalition formed the government, and a new Constitution was adopted in 1931.
During the”reformist bienniu” (1931-1933), the government implemented reforms aimed at transforming Spain’s economic, social, and political life. These included:
* Agrarian reform * Separation of Church and State * Reform of the army * Statute of Autonomy of Catalonia
Conservative Opposition and Right-Wing Groups
The reforms faced opposition from conservative forces and the army. Right-wing groups, such as the CEDA, JONS, and FE, emerged and gained strength.
Black Biennium
In the 1933 elections, the CEDA won a majority. The Radical Republican Party formed a government, marking the beginning of the”Black Bienniu” (1933-1935). The government reversed many of the reforms of the first biennium.
October Revolution and Government Response
In October 1934, leftist parties revolted in Asturias and Barcelona. The government suppressed the uprisings with the aid of troops from Africa.
Popular Front and Azaña’s Government
In the 1936 elections, the Popular Front, an alliance of leftist parties, won a majority. Manuel Azaña formed a government and implemented reforms, including amnesty for political prisoners and the reinstatement of the Catalan Statute.
Instability and Civil War
The new government faced instability due to strikes, land seizures, and violence. The military began planning a coup, which was triggered by the assassination of a rightist leader in July 1936. The Spanish Civil War erupted on July 17, 1936.