topic 1: creation & destabilisation of the second republic Flashcards
(51 cards)
What was the political situation in Spain before the creation of the Second Republic?
Spain was a constitutional monarchy led by a military dictatorship
The monarchy was characterized by conservative elites who were suspicious of democracy.
What was the Pact of San Sebastián?
A meeting of leading opponents of the military dictatorship to coordinate opposition
It united socialists, liberals, and some conservatives/republicans.
What event in 1931 demonstrated the strength of the republican movement?
Municipal elections showed significant support for the republican movement
The king’s refusal to show results led to widespread violence.
What replaced the king in April 1931?
A coalition provisional government composed of liberals and socialists
This government was part of the revolutionary committee established in the Pact of San Sebastián.
Who were the main forces of conservatism in Spain during the Second Republic?
- Catholic Church
- Army
- Landowners
How did the Catholic Church traditionally align itself in Spain?
As a supporter of the Spanish monarchy
The Pope at the time argued that democracy would lead to socialism and communism.
What was the effect of anti-clericalism during the establishment of the Second Republic?
Led to attacks on church property and limited support for the Catholic Church among industrial workers
The church was traditionally strong in rural areas.
What did the establishment of the Second Republic result in regarding the Catholic Church?
Laws that reduced the church’s influence, particularly in education
Anti-clerical politicians campaigned to end the church’s influence.
What were the two monarchist traditions in Spain?
- Alfonsists
- Carlists
Both traditions disagreed over who should be the rightful king but united in defending the church.
What was the perception of the military among the Spanish populace?
Many had little faith in military leaders due to their disconnect with the less affluent
Military governments from 1923-31 failed to improve people’s lives.
What was the majority viewpoint of landowners regarding left-wing political groups?
They feared that a democratic regime would empower workers at their expense
The 1931 election of socialist governments confirmed their fears.
How did conservative elites view reform and modernization?
As a threat to Spanish culture
They were ideologically opposed to democracy and greater equality.
What was the main anarchist group in Spain?
CNT (National Confederation of Workers)
They argued for the abolition of capitalism and the state.
What did PSOE and PCE stand for?
- PSOE: Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party
- PCE: Communist Party of Spain
What was the situation regarding education in Spain in 1930?
Only 55% of children aged 5-14 were enrolled in schools
The literacy rate was 70%, significantly lower than in other European countries.
What was one of the key reforms made by the provisional government in 1931?
Establishment of a new constitution for Spain
This constitution aimed to create a democratic republic that protected individual rights.
What was a main feature of the new constitution regarding religion?
Article 3 stated that the Spanish state had no official religion
This was part of the reforms that aimed to reduce the influence of the Catholic Church.
What was the purpose of the Agrarian Reform Law of 1932?
To address rural inequality through land redistribution
The government aimed to confiscate land from large landowners and redistribute it to landless peasants.
What was the outcome of the Catalan Statute passed in 1932?
It granted further powers for self-governance to Catalonia
This was supported by Azana but seen as a threat to the unity of Spain.
What characterized the economic problems Spain faced in the early 1930s?
High unemployment and widespread poverty
Spain’s economy was predominantly agricultural, with many workers living in extreme poverty.
What was the impact of the Great Depression on Spain?
Falling exports and declining industrial production
Unemployment rose from 400,000 in 1931 to 600,000.
What did the provisional government prioritize in 1931?
Establishing a new constitution to create a democratic republic
The left, particularly PSOE, gained significant seats in the Cortes during elections.
What reforms did Azana implement regarding the army?
- Required an oath of loyalty to the republic from officers
- Allowed early retirement for officers
- Reviewed promotions
These reforms aimed to reduce military interference in politics.
What was the reaction of right-wing newspapers to Azana’s military reforms?
They presented the reforms as a campaign to ‘crush the army’
Not all military officers were removed; some, like Franco, remained influential.
