A Day of Anniversaries: From Pink Floyd to Political Turmoil

Yesterday, March 24th, marked several meaningful anniversaries. While music enthusiasts celebrated 52 years as Pink Floyd’s groundbreaking album, the Dark Side of the Moon, was released, historical reflection turned to the 19th anniversary of ETA’s declaration of a permanent ceasefire after decades of violence. Another anniversary, largely overshadowed, was the 201st anniversary of Fernando VII’s return to Spain as king, following the War of Independence against Napoleon‘s forces (1808-1814).

The Bayonne Abdications: A Power Vacuum Created

To understand Fernando VII’s return, one must revisit the events leading up to the War of Independence.Through Napoleon’s machinations in Bayonne, both King Carlos IV and his son, Fernando VII, abdicated, handing the spanish throne to Napoleon, who then bestowed it upon his brother, Joseph Bonaparte (also known as “Pepe Botella”). Whether this was a stroke of genius by Napoleon or a testament to the ineptitude of the Bourbon monarchs remains a subject of debate. Nonetheless, the French occupation created a power vacuum for Spaniards who refused to recognize Joseph as their king.

The Cádiz Constitution: A Glimmer of Liberalism

In response to the power vacuum, local juntas formed, eventually coalescing into the Central Board, which convened in Cádiz, a city untouched by French occupation. This assembly drafted the Constitution of 1812,a remarkably progressive document for its time. It enshrined fundamental rights and freedoms, serving as an inspiration for liberal revolutions across Europe in the early 19th century. However, even this progressive constitution acknowledged Fernando VII as the legitimate king, reflecting the complex political landscape of the time.

The Constitution of 1812, while revolutionary in its ideals, still sought to reconcile liberalism with the existing monarchy.

Historian Dr. Isabella Rodriguez, University of Madrid

The King’s Betrayal: Absolutism Restored

Despite the hopes of liberals who envisioned a parliamentary monarchy, Fernando VII, upon his return, betrayed their trust.He traveled to Valencia, where he secretly allied with absolutists to repeal the constitution of 1812 and reinstate absolute monarchy. This act effectively constituted a coup d’état. With the exception of a brief period of constitutional rule (“La Pepa,” 1820-1823), Fernando VII’s reign marked one of the most oppressive periods in Spanish history.

Consequences of Absolutist Rule

Fernando VII’s absolutist rule had devastating consequences for Spain. these included disastrous losses in the American colonies, a succession crisis following his death, brutal repression and executions of liberals who had supported him in Cádiz, and a general stagnation in all areas of progress. Furthermore, he failed to address long-standing structural problems, such as land distribution, which continued to plague Spain for generations.

Legacy of a Dark Reign

Fernando VII’s reign serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic ideals and the enduring consequences of political betrayal. His actions not only stifled progress in Spain but also contributed to a legacy of instability and conflict that would shape the nation’s future for decades to come. the anniversary of his return should not be a celebration, but a moment of reflection on the importance of upholding constitutional principles and safeguarding against the dangers of absolutism.