The First Carlist War (1833-1839): A Comprehensive Analysis
Comment Text 4: Carlist Proclamation
A) Introduction
This historical text marks the beginning of the First Carlist War and serves as a proclamation aimed at mobilizing specific social groups through various motives and interests. Reproduced by 19th-century historian Antonio Pirala in his extensive work, History of the Civil War, the proclamation targets the people of Álava during the Carlist capture of Vitoria.
B) Carlist Ideology
The text presents Carlism as a counter-movement rooted in the traditional Spanish monarchy, emphasizing religious principles and opposing liberalism. Key aspects include:
- Religious State: Carlism advocated for a state based on Catholic principles, opposing any reforms that challenged the Church’s authority.
- Legitimate Sovereign: The text highlights Carlos V (Carlos María Isidro), the Infante and second son of Carlos IV, as the rightful heir to the throne.
- Anti-Liberalism: Carlism viewed liberalism as a threat to traditional values and religion, leading to a staunch opposition to any liberal reforms.
- Defense of Fueros: The proclamation appeals to the Basque population by emphasizing the potential loss of their traditional rights and privileges (fueros).
These elements form the core of the Carlist ideology: “God, Country, and King.”
C) Background of the First Carlist War (1833-1839)
Origins of Carlism
Carlism emerged as a reaction against European liberalism, with significant precedents in Spain during the Trienio Liberal and the Ominous Decade. Key events include the Royalist Volunteers’ opposition to the National Militia and the War of the Agraviados in Catalonia.
Characteristics of Carlism
- Longevity: Carlism persisted throughout the 19th century, evolving from a war movement to a political force.
- Adaptability: Carlism attracted diverse social groups, including peasants, clergy, and provincial elites, by adapting its message to local concerns.
- Counter-Revolutionary: Carlism remained firmly opposed to liberalism, advocating for an absolutist monarchy, traditional religion, and regional privileges.
Development of the War (1833-1836)
The war’s initial phase saw major uprisings in the Basque Country, with Bilbao and Vitoria falling under Carlist control. General Tomás de Zumalacárregui led the Carlist forces in the north, achieving significant victories against the Liberal army. Other regions, such as Castile, Aragon, and Catalonia, also witnessed Carlist activity.
1836-1838
A period of military stalemate ensued, marked by internal divisions within the Carlist ranks and the rise of General Baldomero Espartero as a key figure in the Liberal army. Ramón Cabrera emerged as a prominent Carlist leader in the Levant, engaging in a brutal conflict with the Cristino forces. Carlist expeditions, including one led by Carlos V himself, aimed to expand the war across Spain.
1839 and the End of the War
Espartero’s victories and divisions within the Carlist movement paved the way for the war’s conclusion. The Convention of Vergara, signed in August 1839, granted concessions to the Basques and ended major hostilities. Cabrera continued resistance until 1840, marking the final chapter of this devastating conflict.