Kingdom of Spain

**Kingdom of Spain** (Spanish: España), commonly known as Spain, is a monarchy located on the Iberian Peninsula. Its capital is Madrid.

## **HISTORY**

Despite being a constitutional monarchy with liberal principles, Spain faced widening wealth inequality and irregular elections orchestrated by local power-brokers, a practice known as "caciquismo." This situation led to the emergence of nationalist and labor movements in protest.

The defeat of Spain in the 1898 Spanish-American War, which resulted in the loss of many colonies, severely damaged the country's prestige. Following this, Spain focused on expanding its control in Melilla, one of its remaining colonies. However, tensions with the local Berber population escalated, leading to conflicts. The 1906 Algeciras Conference recognized Spain's rule over the Rif region, but tensions with the Berbers continued.

In 1908, Spanish mines were attacked by the Rif people. The Spanish government's inadequate response and delayed dispatch of reinforcements resulted in increased casualties. The mishandling of the situation led to discontent within the military, and in 1909, the "Tragic Week" uprising occurred in Barcelona. This movement opposed the exemption fee for conscription into the Moroccan Army and was suppressed by the government. As a result, the ruling Conservative Party lost support and credibility, even with the king.

Even after the collapse of the Conservative Party's government, strikes continued throughout the country. King Alfonso XIII decided to hand over power to the moderate faction of the Spanish Workers' Party, establishing the two-party system consisting of the Spanish Workers' Party and the Liberal Party. This period witnessed economic development, labor protection policies, and a reduction in the influence of "caciquismo."

While Spain remained neutral during World War I, the war's economic effects, including rising prices due to war demand, led to protests, strikes, and demonstrations among the impoverished population. The government implemented relief measures, contributing to the improvement of living standards for workers and the country's international reputation, thereby gaining increased support.

The Spanish Workers' Party adopted a revisionist stance and faced opposition from radical elements. Inspired by the success of the German Revolution, these radicals formed independent political parties.

Spain continued its struggle to control Morocco but faced a significant defeat in the Battle of Annual in 1921, leading to the declaration of independence by the Berber people and the establishment of the Rif Republic. However, when the Rif army invaded French Morocco, France intervened, resulting in significant losses for the Rif forces and the resolution of Spain's political crisis.

In 1931, the global economic depression impacted Spain's economy, leading to the introduction of unemployment relief and domestic industry protection measures. Despite these efforts, government support waned, and extremist factions gained strength.

By 1936, the economy showed signs of recovery, but political instability was on the rise. Rumors of a left-wing extremist plot to assassinate the king circulated, while criticism of the parliamentary system grew. Calls for strong leadership and the emergence of General Francisco Franco added to the political tension, making Spain's political landscape increasingly fraught.

## POLITLCS

#### **Socialist Labor Party**

This is the Social Labor Party, which advocates for addressing social inequality and safeguarding workers' rights.

#### **Spanish Liberal Party**

emphasize secularism and the separation of powers but tend to be more conservative compared to the Social Labor Party and the Reform Party.

#### **CNT-FAI (Iberian Anarchist Federation)**

This organization adheres to anarcho-syndicalism, a form of anarchism that focuses on labor syndicates.

#### **Spanish Communist Party(SCP)**

The Communist Party, which separated from the moderate Social Labor Party and advocates for communism.