Temes 2 i 3 V5 Restauració Borbònica i Catalanisme polític

History Class Overview: Restoration and Catalanism

Introduction to the Topics

• The session covers historical themes related to the restoration period in Spain, specifically focusing on the Bourbons' restoration and Catalan political movements.

• The discussion will transition into the second part of the restoration period, addressing events from 1898 to 1930, including the Second Republic's evolution.

Chronological Context of Restoration

• The restoration period is traditionally divided into two phases:

• First Phase (1875-1898): Marked by initial stability leading up to the loss of Spanish colonies.

• Second Phase (1898-1930): Characterized by social agitation and political turmoil following colonial losses.

Key Characteristics of the Second Phase

• Two main characteristics define this second phase:

• Social Agitation: A resurgence of social unrest due to fraudulent electoral practices and growing labor movements.

• Political Stagnation: A failure among political elites to adapt or respond effectively, leading to increased demands for reform.

Emergence of Catalan Political Movements

• This period also sees a rise in Catalan nationalism, which begins gaining traction politically during this time.

• Internal military issues arise as some factions push for reforms within the army, coinciding with external conflicts like the Moroccan War.

Political Developments Post-Colonial Losses

• Following Spain's loss of its last colonies in 1898, Queen María Cristina appoints Francisco Silvela as a leader who attempts various reforms.

• Silvela’s government includes previously uninvolved individuals in politics, such as General Camilo Polavieja and Manuel Durán i Bas.

Reform Efforts and Public Response

• Silvela's administration focuses on administrative decentralization and tax reforms aimed at essential goods but faces backlash over perceived injustices.

• Protests erupt against new taxes introduced by Minister Villaverde; local leaders resist enforcement actions leading to significant civil unrest.

Consequences of Civil Unrest

• In response to protests, authorities declare a state of war in Barcelona for an extended period while attempting to suppress dissent through legal measures.

Broader Implications for Political Reform

Reformismo en España: Contexto y Líderes

Tendencias Reformistas en Partidos Marginados

• Se observa una tendencia reformista dentro de partidos que fueron marginados del sistema, incapaces de aprovechar la crisis del 98.

• El objetivo era movilizar la opinión pública para desbancar rápidamente a los partidos dinásticos, acompañado por un regeneracionismo intelectual y literario.

Generación del 98 y Regeneracionismo

• La Generación del 98 surge como respuesta a la decadencia de España, reflexionando sobre la necesidad de regeneración.

• Autores destacados incluyen a Ángel Ganivet, Miguel de Unamuno, Antonio Machado, entre otros, quienes proponen reformas económicas y educativas.

Reformismo Conservador vs. Liberal

• Se establece una clara diferencia entre el reformismo conservador y el liberal; el primero se ve afectado por fracasos gubernamentales entre 1899 y 1903.

• Antonio Maura lidera un gobierno con dos etapas: el "gobierno corto" (1903-1904) y el "Gobierno Jark" (1907-1909).

Acciones del Gobierno Conservador de Maura

• Las principales acciones incluyen formar una nueva clase política apoyada por masas neutras e implementar un estado fuerte para evitar el protagonismo excesivo de las clases populares.

• Se promulgan leyes como la Ley Electoral (1907), que establece voto obligatorio pero enfrenta problemas con el caciquismo.

Medidas Económicas y Sociales

• Se implementan medidas proteccionistas para mejorar la actividad industrial española junto con mejoras en legislación laboral.

• También se busca integrar al catalanismo otorgando cierta autonomía a juntas locales mientras se dirige intervención en Marruecos.

Reformismo Liberal: Cambios Clave

• El reformismo liberal comienza a tomar forma tras 1903 con varios líderes intercalándose en diferentes etapas gubernamentales.

• Entre 1905 y 1907 destacan Montero Ríos y Morett; Canalejas juega un papel crucial hacia el final de esta etapa.

Propuestas de Canalejas

• Canalejas aboga por un reformismo social más amplio limitando el poder e influencia de la iglesia mediante leyes como la Ley del Cadenad (1906).

• Esta ley prohíbe temporalmente nuevas asociaciones religiosas durante dos años si no se promulga otra ley al respecto.

Reformas Laborales bajo Canalejas

• Se introducen reformas laborales significativas, aunque su administración es inflexible ante huelgas entre 1911 y 1912, resultando en represión militar.

Political Dynamics in Early 20th Century Catalonia

Nationalism and Political Projects

• The discussion highlights the response to nationalist claims, particularly regarding a project related to the "mancomunidades" which aimed to enhance local governance in Catalonia. This initiative was initially undervalued but later approved by a conservative government in 1914.

• The assassination of Canalejas in 1912 is noted as a pivotal moment that exacerbated the crisis within the Dynastic Turn party, leading to increased internal divisions among conservatives and liberals.

Opposition Political Forces

• The emergence of previously marginalized political parties is discussed, with a focus on opposition forces such as Republicans, including Unión Republicana led by Nicolás Salmerón, Partido Radical under Alejandro Leroux, and Partido Reformista led by Melquíades Álvarez.

• Various factions are identified within these groups, including traditionalist Carlins and integrists. The evolution of Catalan nationalism during this period is also examined through organizations like Unión Catalanista and Centro Nacional Catalá.

Broader Nationalist Movements

• The notes expand beyond Catalan nationalism to include Basque nationalism represented by PNB (Partido Nacionalista Vasco), highlighting its more independentist elements compared to other Basque nationalists.

• Galician nationalism and attempts at Valencian nationalism are briefly mentioned, indicating a broader trend of regional identities seeking political representation.

Socialism and Labor Movements

• A distinction is made between various socialist factions, including the evolution of labor unions like UGT (Unión General de Trabajadores), stemming from splits within the Socialist Party leading to the formation of the Communist Party of Spain directed by Dolores Ibárruri.

Republican Factions Overview

• Three main factions within republicanism are outlined: Unió Republicana founded in 1903 as a significant political force aiming for constitutional restoration; it attracted urban support due to reduced influence from local elites.

• Alejandro Leroux emerges as a key figure known for his radical anti-clerical rhetoric aimed at mobilizing popular classes. His eventual split from Unió Republicana leads him to establish the Partido Republicano Radical in 1908 after rejecting catalanismo's integration into their platform.

Political Dynamics in Catalonia

The Rise of Catalanism and Political Inefficacy

• The political landscape in Asturias is discussed, highlighting the presence of numerous representatives in local and provincial institutions. The inefficacy of the Dinastic Parties is emphasized as a significant factor leading to political changes.

• The failure of the Reformist Party post-1998 disaster catalyzed aspirations for Catalanism, which gained momentum due to established leaders and a new generation advocating for a distinct political program aimed at autonomy.

Formation of Regionalist Coalitions

• In 1801, following failed regeneration projects, regionalist coalitions emerged from various economic leaders in Barcelona, seeking clear political autonomy for Catalonia.

• By 1900, a shift occurred when the group behind "La Veu de Catalunya" left the Catalan Union to establish the Centro Nacional Catalán, indicating a move towards more organized political representation.

Electoral Strategies and Alliances

• Prominent figures like Francesc Cambó and Luis Duran i Ventosa were involved in advocating for electoral intervention by catalanists. In 1901, both Unión Regionalista and Centro Nacional Catalán presented a united electoral candidacy.

• This joint candidacy aimed to leverage strengths from both entities: Unión Regionalista's social base among industrialists and merchants versus Centro Nacional Catalán's defined political agenda.

Emergence of New Political Entities

• The coalition was named "Candidatura de los Cuatro Presidentes," featuring notable leaders such as Albert Rosignol and Bartomeu Robert. Their collective efforts significantly influenced Barcelona's political scene during elections.

• Despite winning by Dinastic parties in 1910 elections, the Candidatura de los Cuatro Presidentes made substantial strides in representation within Barcelona’s governance structure.

Establishment of Liga Regionalista

• Following these developments, Liga Regionalista was formed as a new party with "La Veu de Catalunya" serving as its primary communication outlet. They achieved notable success in municipal elections with eleven councilors elected.

• Liga Regionalista's influence extended beyond industrialists to include broader societal sectors while advocating for an autonomous regime that could engage politically within Spain to modernize state structures.

Internal Conflicts Within Liga Regionalista

• Tensions arose between progressive factions within Liga Regionalista regarding negotiation strategies with Madrid on catalanist demands; this internal conflict highlighted differing approaches toward achieving their goals.

Political Movements in Early 20th Century Spain

Formation of Political Parties

• The emergence of the Partido Tradicionalista in 1904, a split from Vázquez de Mella's party, reflects the political fragmentation during this period.

• The Carlist representation maintained its presence in Congress despite internal divisions and external pressures, particularly during World War I.

• The PSOE's refusal to join the Communist International led to a significant split in 1921, resulting in the formation of the Partido Comunista de España, with notable leaders like José Díaz and Dolores Ibárruri.

Nationalism and Regional Movements

• The rise of Basque nationalism saw increased electoral influence and labor presence by 1911, leading to the establishment of a nationalist Catholic union for Basque workers.

• In 1911, the creation of the Comunio Tradicionalista VASC aimed to attract bourgeois support for Basque nationalism while promoting economic progress.

• A split within Basque nationalist movements occurred in 1921 when more independentist factions formed their own party named Berri; however, they later unified under the traditional name.

Cultural Renaissance and Regional Identity

• Galicia experienced a cultural movement akin to Catalonia's renaissance, advocating for Galician language use through organizations like Hermandades de Fala, founded in 1906.

• Valencia saw nationalistic efforts emerge with associations established between 1904 and 1908 that laid groundwork for Valencian political identity.

• Andalusian regionalism organized around figures like Blas Infante culminated in proposals for autonomy at regional assemblies starting from 1908.

Labor Movements and Anarchism

• Anarchist movements gained traction in Catalonia from early century until around 1911, marked by significant labor agitation leading up to revolutionary attempts.

• The establishment of the Confederación Nacional del Trabajo (CNT) in 1911 represented a push for proletarian independence from bourgeois influences while advocating direct action against capitalism.

• Key figures such as Salvador Seguí emerged as prominent leaders within CNT, which became central to labor organization efforts across Catalonia and Andalusia.

Catalonia's Labor Movement and the Tragic Week

The 1909 General Strike

• In 1909, the significant event known as the "Anumenada Vaga de la Canadénca" occurred in Catalonia, where a strike by workers paralyzed 70% of industrial operations and left Barcelona without electricity for two months.

Demands and Repression

• The strike aimed to negotiate better working conditions, including an eight-hour workday and job security for workers laid off during the strike. However, these demands were not met, leading to further unrest.

Violent Response from Authorities

• In response to the strike, employers resorted to severe repression, creating their own union called "Anumenad sincloía," which directly confronted labor associations representing anarchism.

Escalation of Violence

• The newly formed union organized armed groups to suppress strikes and eliminate labor leaders. Civil authorities under General Martínez Anido supported this violence against unionists by enforcing repressive laws.

Radicalization of Labor Activism

• As a result of state violence, there was a brutal radicalization among labor activists who began retaliating against authorities and employers. This period marked what is referred to as "pistolarismo," lasting until 1923.

The Context Leading to the Tragic Week

Political Landscape in Catalonia

• The political situation in Catalonia involved various opposition parties attempting reform but facing failures that contributed to social unrest leading up to the "Tragic Week."

Understanding the Tragic Week's Background

• To comprehend the events of the Tragic Week, it is essential to consider Spain's foreign policy towards North Africa starting from 1890 when Spain began its colonial expansion into Morocco.

Spain's Colonial Ambitions in North Africa

Establishment of Protectorates

• Following agreements like those made at Algeciras in 1906 and subsequent treaties with France in 1912, Spain established a protectorate over parts of Morocco. This arrangement allowed both countries control over Moroccan diplomacy and military affairs.

Economic Interests Behind Colonization

• The motivations for establishing a protectorate included economic interests such as mining investments and public works projects aimed at restoring Spain’s prestige after losing its status as a colonial power.

Resistance Against Spanish Occupation

Berber Resistance Movements

• Local resistance from Berber tribes organized into cabiles led continuous attacks on Spanish troops, particularly active in the Rif region. This necessitated a strong military presence from Spain.

Consequences of Military Engagement

• In 1909, Spanish forces faced defeat at Barranco del Job against Rif fighters resulting in heavy casualties. Consequently, Spain decided to increase troop deployments in Morocco significantly.

The Outbreak of Protests

Mobilization Against Conscription

• Protests erupted against conscription policies that forced reservists—often civilians—to fight in Morocco due to financial constraints preventing them from avoiding service through payment.

Unity Among Protest Groups

The Tragic Week: Causes and Consequences

Overview of the Protests

• The anarchist union, Solidaritat Obrera, calls for a general strike on July 26, supported by UJT and other republican groups. The protests arise not only against military conscription but also reflect broader anti-militarist sentiments and opposition to social inequalities.

• Protests escalate into violent confrontations with law enforcement, resulting in the burning of around 80 religious establishments. The government's response includes declaring a state of war and deploying reinforcements to suppress the demonstrations.

Impact of the Violence

• By late July, normalcy returns but at a heavy cost: over 100 deaths, 300 injuries, and nearly 100 buildings destroyed. A harsh crackdown follows with hundreds arrested; approximately 1,500 face military trials.

• Among those executed is an intellectual figure associated with modern education reforms. His execution sparks widespread protests both within Spain and internationally.

Political Consequences

• Politically, the events lead to the downfall of Prime Minister Antonio Maura's government. Following his resignation, José Canalejas takes over as a liberal leader until his assassination in 1912.

• The crisis results in fragmentation among traditional political parties (dinastic parties), leading to internal disputes and loss of strong leadership figures like Maura and Canalejas.

Reorganization of Opposition Parties

• In response to these upheavals, opposition parties reorganize; republicans form a new moderate party called Partido Reformista in 1912 while also establishing Conjunción Republicano-Socialista.

• Republicanism suffers significant losses in support within Catalonia due to its ambiguous stance during the Tragic Week. Many supporters shift allegiance towards socialist movements like CNT (Confederación Nacional del Trabajo).

Catalan Nationalism Dynamics

• The coalition known as Solidaridad Catalana disintegrates as regionalist factions align with government repression post-Tragic Week. This reflects growing tensions within Catalan nationalism seeking new directions amidst political turmoil.

• The presence of Catalan deputies in Madrid becomes increasingly significant for local governance amid rising nationalist sentiments that challenge central authority.

Media Censorship and Military Influence

• Tensions between military authorities and media culminate in censorship incidents such as the Cucut affair where satirical publications are banned following perceived insults against the army.

Catalan Regionalism and Political Developments

Formation of the Electoral Coalition

• The regionalist coalition included representatives from various political factions, such as Carlins, republicans, and federal republicans, but notably excluded dynastic parties and the Reusista republicanism.

• This coalition presented a unified program for the 1907 elections known as the Tivoli Program, advocating for the repeal of jurisdiction laws and establishing self-governing bodies in Catalonia. They achieved significant success in provincial elections.

Challenges Within the Coalition

• Despite initial strength, ideological differences within this diverse group led to fragmentation by 1909 during events like the "tragic week," where governmental repression caused rifts among supporters of Catalan solidarity.

• The coalition's efforts resulted in one of the major victories for Catalan political nationalism: the establishment of an administrative body (Mancomunidad Catalana), marking a significant step towards self-governance since 1714.

Development of Mancomunidad Catalana

• In 1911, a proposal was made to unify four provincial councils under a single administration. Although initially accepted by Prime Minister Canalejas, his assassination in 1912 stalled progress on this initiative.

• Following changes in government with Eduardo Dato's conservative leadership in 1911, a decree allowed provincial councils to collaborate on administrative policies despite earlier setbacks.

Achievements of Mancomunidad Catalana

• The first president was Enrique Prat de la Riba (1913), followed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch until 1923. Their leadership focused on enhancing local governance and infrastructure development.

• Key projects included creating public administrative infrastructure aimed at economic development and improving communication systems like telegraphy.

Cultural Initiatives and Educational Reforms

• The Mancomunidad also initiated an agrarian modernization plan to boost productivity across agriculture and fisheries while promoting Catalan culture through institutions like the Institute of Catalan Studies established in 1911.

• Significant educational reforms were introduced including industrial schools, public libraries, experimental schools, and proposals for autonomy presented to Madrid aiming for self-governance with elected representation.

Socioeconomic Context Leading to Conflict

• By early 1917, widespread discontent arose due to declining living standards amid World War I's economic impact. Popular classes faced diminishing purchasing power while businesses thrived.

Conflict and Political Turmoil in Early 20th Century Spain

Military Discontent and Political Reactions

• A significant military conflict arose due to disagreements among military personnel regarding the promotion system, which favored those with war merits, particularly affecting soldiers involved in conflicts in Africa.

• The military organized into defense committees known as "juntas de defensa," while a political crisis emerged involving opposition parties gathering at the Catalan Parliamentary Assembly.

• The assembly demanded a provisional government, constituent elections, and decentralization of state power. The government's response was repressive, leading to direct suppression of labor movements by the military.

• In reaction to the military conflict, all defense committees were dissolved. Additionally, meetings of deputies and senators were prohibited by civil guards amid widespread unrest.

• To stabilize the situation, a concentration government was formed under García Prieto's leadership, including conservatives and regionalists but ultimately failed to resolve ongoing crises within the restoration system.

Economic Crisis and Social Unrest

• An economic crisis exacerbated social tensions post-World War I due to reduced exports and inflation impacting demand across Europe.

• Thousands lost their jobs leading to significant strikes and protests, particularly in industrialized regions like Catalonia. Notable strikes included the Canadian strike of 1919 amidst rampant violence during this period.

Regional Mobilizations and Government Response

• Between 1920 and 1921, there were major mobilizations across regions such as Andalucía demanding land redistribution inspired by Russian revolutionary ideals.

• These revolts involved land occupations and local governance takeovers. In response, the government declared a state of war against these movements while attempting to legalize labor organizations.

Concentration Governments: Challenges Ahead

• The most notable concentration government led by Antonio Maura began in March 1918 but struggled with internal divisions among parliamentary factions including Catalanists like Frances Cambó.

• None of these governments lasted beyond eight months due to lack of majority support; they often resorted to suspending constitutional guarantees for governance amid an unsustainable political climate.

Ongoing Issues: Morocco Conflict

Historical Context of Spanish Military Actions in Morocco

Overview of Socio-Political Conditions

• The region was characterized by extreme poverty, complicating military actions and governance.

• Following the defeat at Annual in 1921, public opposition to Spanish presence in Morocco intensified, leading to significant protests demanding withdrawal from the territory.

Consequences of Military Defeats

• The aftermath of the Annual disaster highlighted severe mismanagement within the Spanish military, resulting in approximately 13,000 deaths among troops.

• Political instability emerged due to failed concentration governments since 1917 and a lack of effective leadership from dynastic parties.

Economic and Social Crisis

• The economic situation deteriorated post-World War I, with rising prices and increased social unrest manifesting through worker protests.

• Notable strikes included the Canadian strike and others across various sectors, indicating heightened labor tensions during this period.

Political Turmoil Leading to Military Coup

• The disastrous military involvement in Morocco led to widespread public discontent regarding Spain's colonial policies.

• By April 1923, political conditions were dire; García Prieto attempted reforms aimed at democratizing governance but faced resistance from monarchy and military forces.

Rise of Miguel Primo de Rivera

• In May 1923, General Miguel Primo de Rivera executed a military coup with royal backing as a response to ongoing governmental failures.

• Initially resistant to dismissing coup leaders, King Alfonso XIII eventually supported Rivera’s regime as a means to restore order amidst chaos.

Justification for Authoritarian Rule

• Primo de Rivera justified his coup by citing the need for national regeneration against corruption and inefficiency within existing political structures.

Initial Reactions to the Dictatorship of Miguel Primo de Rivera

Indifference and Expectations

• The initial public reaction was one of indifference towards the dictatorship, as many expected it to be a temporary system that would end quickly.

• A failed strike called by CNT (National Confederation of Labor) marked the ineffective opposition at this stage.

Establishment of Dictatorship

• Miguel Primo de Rivera's dictatorship began in 1923, characterized by two phases: a military directory from 1923 to 1925 and a civil directory from 1925 to 1930.

• Following the coup d'état on September 7, 1923, Primo de Rivera established a new government composed solely of military personnel.

Key Measures Implemented by Primo de Rivera

Suspension of Democratic Norms

• The regime declared a state of war across Spain until 1925, suspended the Constitution, dissolved Parliament, and banned political parties and organizations.

• Catalan symbols were prohibited, including their flag and language use in private settings.

Control Over Local Governance

• Traditional local leaders were replaced with new ones appointed based on wealth rather than democratic processes; this aimed to control voting through municipal reforms.

Repressive Policies and Military Interventions

Suppression of Dissent

• The regime adopted repressive measures against labor movements like CNT; protests were banned, leading to imprisonment of key leaders.

Military Actions in Morocco

• In response to conflicts in Morocco during 1925, Spanish troops engaged militarily against Rif rebels who posed threats to Spanish forces.

Social Measures Amidst Repression

Social Initiatives

• Despite its repressive nature, some social measures were introduced such as labor regulations and public works aimed at improving conditions for working families.

Transitioning to Civil Directory

Shift in Governance Structure

• By late 1925, a civil directory was established under Primo de Rivera’s leadership which included non-military figures alongside military officials.

Political Reorganization Efforts

• The civil directory sought inspiration from Mussolini's Italy; it created the Unió Patriòtica party lacking clear ideology but aimed at consolidating power among regime supporters.

Creation of New Institutions

Formation of Somatén

• The Somatén was recognized as an armed civilian force supporting police efforts during conflicts; it mirrored structures found in other European fascist regimes.

National Work Council

• Established in 1926, this council aimed at controlling labor disputes while regulating wages and work conditions under state oversight. Initially supported by unions but faced quick withdrawal from CNT participation.

Assembly National Consultative

Representation Across Sectors

The Impact of Primo de Rivera's Dictatorship on Catalan Identity

Overview of the Assembly and Government Structure

• The National Consultative Assembly aimed to design a new government structure, but it was clear that a fundamental project to replace the old constitution would not succeed during this period.

• During Primo de Rivera's dictatorship, there was an initial lack of explicit opposition against Catalanism from Barcelona, despite underlying tensions regarding language and culture.

Repression of Catalan Institutions

• The repression began with a decree in 1923 targeting separatism, leading to the dismantling of public and private Catalan institutions, including the dissolution of the Mancomunidad in 1925.

• Numerous Catalan institutions were closed down; cultural expressions such as the use of the Catalan language and flag were prohibited along with celebrations like La Diada.

Censorship and Resistance

• There was widespread censorship affecting all forms of media in Catalonia, including newspapers and educational institutions associated with the Catalan movement.

• Despite initial indifference from some factions, resistance grew over time. Republicans launched campaigns against the regime internationally.

Opposition Movements

• Various sectors opposed Primo de Rivera’s regime; conspiracies emerged within military circles while intellectuals criticized censorship and lack of freedom.

• Radical nationalist groups like Estat Català attempted armed insurrection but ultimately failed, leading to increased scrutiny on their leaders.

Political Mobilization Post-Dictatorship

• The CNT (National Confederation of Labor) and Communist Party became focal points for opposition despite facing persecution. In 1927, they formed alliances to strengthen their influence.

• By 1929, amidst a global economic crisis impacting Spain severely, political movements intensified as social unrest grew significantly.

Path Towards Republicanism

• In response to escalating tensions, republican forces mobilized around agreements like the Pact of San Sebastián in 1930 aimed at overthrowing dictatorship.