HE2_U4_T2_1

Political System in 19th Century Spain

Bipartisanship and Political Structure

• The political system established by Cánovas is characterized by bipartisanship, with two major parties alternating in power: the Conservative Party (center-right) led by Cánovas and the Liberal Party (center-left) directed by Sagasta.

• According to the constitution, the king administers power among these parties, proposing a party to form a government. If that party lacks a majority in the Cortes, elections are called to ensure a favorable outcome for the ruling party.

• Historically, no party has lost elections it called since the inception of this electoral system in the 19th century; governments control election processes rather than elections determining government formation.

Election Manipulation and Influence

• The Minister of Interior, colloquially known as "the elector," orchestrates elections through a network of civil governors across regions.

• A critical element of governmental pressure on voters comes from "caciques," influential local figures who communicate government desires to an illiterate population (70% illiteracy rate).

Clientelism and Electoral Control

• The caciques operate under a principle where laws apply to enemies while favors are granted to allies. This creates an environment where intimidation tactics are employed during elections.

• Caciquismo thrives particularly in rural Spain, where small landowners rely on caciques for their interactions with state authorities, highlighting systemic issues within local governance and electoral integrity.