The First Carlist War (1833-1839)
Causes of the War:
The death of King Fernando VII sparked a civil war in Spain. The conflict arose from the opposing ideologies of the absolutists and liberals. The war lasted for seven years and was primarily fought in the Basque Country and Navarre, although there were also battles in Catalonia, Aragon, and Valencia.
Initial Reactions:
Maria Cristina, acting as regent, sought assistance from the Liberals. However, she faced resistance from those opposed to the political uprising and the delayed response to the absolutist threat. Meanwhile, the Carlist army, led by General Zumalacárregui, began to organize, taking advantage of the scattered and scarce royal forces.
Basic Elements of Carlist Ideology:
- Absolutist monarchy
- Defense of traditional provincial land ownership
- Religious orthodoxy
Groups Supporting Each Side:
Carlists:
- Northern farmers
- Lower nobility
- Clergy
- Conservative elements in northern cities
Liberals:
- Educated classes
- Emerging bourgeoisie
- Urban proletariat
Zumalacárregui’s Leadership and Tactics:
Zumalacárregui employed guerrilla warfare tactics, utilizing surprise attacks and taking advantage of the rugged terrain of the Basque region, which the Carlists fortified. The Carlists gained control of most of Alava, Guipuzcoa, Navarra, and Vizcaya (except for the capitals).
Charles V’s Promises:
Charles V, the Carlist pretender to the throne, promised to uphold the fueros (regional laws), maintain the penal code, and support the University of Oñate in an effort to gain support.
Objectives of the Carlists:
The Carlists’ primary objective was to capture Bilbao and gain international recognition for their cause.
The War After Zumalacárregui’s Death:
Zumalacárregui’s death was a significant blow to the Carlist cause. General Espartero, a prominent Liberal commander, continued the siege of Bilbao and eventually defeated the Carlists. Despite attempts to improve their situation, the Carlists’ morale declined.
The Vergara Agreement:
General Maroto and General Espartero initiated peace talks. The agreement recognized Queen Isabel II as the legitimate monarch. In exchange, the Carlists of Alava, Navarre, and Vizcaya were granted amnesty. The Basque fueros and the military ranks of Carlist officers were also respected.
Reasons for the Persistence of Carlism:
Carlism endured because it represented a traditional way of life that was protected under the old regime. Farmers and small-scale artisans, who formed the core of Carlist support, felt threatened by the encroachment of capitalism, the desamortización (confiscation of church lands), and the rise of economic liberalism. The clergy also played a role in supporting Carlism, portraying it as a crusade against liberal ideas.