The Second Spanish Republic: A Period of Transformation
Proclamation of the Second Spanish Republic
In Spain, a desire for regime change culminated on the 14th with the proclamation of the Second Spanish Republic, forcing King Alfonso XIII into exile. The provisional government immediately called for parliamentary elections. In Catalonia, the elections resulted in a triumph for the ERC, significantly diminishing the power of the League. Companys proclaimed the Republic from the balcony of the Barcelona City Council, and just a few hours later, Macià proclaimed the Catalan Republic, integrated within a Federation of Iberian Republics. This initiative sparked a conflict with the interim government.
The Constitution of 1931
The general election saw very high participation, with a victory for the leftist coalition. The deputies formed the new constituent courts, and the government remained in the hands of the victorious coalition. The courts immediately appointed a commission to draft a constitution, which was adopted after intense discussions. The constitution, democratic in character, was very advanced and progressive. It stated that all powers emanate from the people and established several key principles: the state was consolidated but allowed for the possibility of autonomous governments. Legislative power was vested in the courts, the government held executive power, and the judiciary was responsible for prosecution. The constitution included a broad statement of rights and freedoms, guaranteeing equality for all. Universal suffrage was declared, and Spain became a secular state. Despite its approval, there was significant opposition to the constitution within the courts.
The Left-Biennium (1931-1933)
Between 1931 and 1933, the government, headed by Manuel Azaña and composed of leftist and socialist leaders, initiated a reform program aimed at modernizing and democratizing Spanish society. These reforms were based on the principles outlined in the Constitution of 1931.
This government implemented reforms in various areas, including:
- Religion
- Military
- Agriculture
- Labor
- Education
They also created autonomous statutes.
Religious Reforms
The government sought to reduce the power of the Church. The Constitution promoted freedom of worship and abolished the budget for worship and clergy. The government banned religious education and placed limits on the possessions of religious communities. A portion of the Catholic sector viewed the new legislation as an attack on their convictions.
Military Reforms
Recognizing the need for significant military reform, Manuel Azaña took over the Defense portfolio and launched a reform aimed at creating a professional and democratic army. This reform sought to address the issue of excessive officers (macrocephaly). While it achieved some success in reducing army expenses, modernization proved difficult. The Africanists viewed the changes as an attack on military tradition and the power of the army.
Agrarian Reforms
The government aimed to end the latifundismo (large landholdings) prevalent in much of central and southern Spain and improve the lives of poor farmers. This reform was essential considering the significant role of agriculture in the Spanish economy. A series of decrees were issued to dismantle caciquismo (political bossism). The implementation of agrarian reform was entrusted to the IRA (Agrarian Reform Institute).
The implementation of the agrarian reform law led to a significant increase in social tension. Landowners opposed the Republic, and workers were frustrated because the Republic’s objectives were not fully achieved.