King Ferdinand VII of Spain accepted the Cadiz Constitution in 1820 primarily because he was forced to do so by a mutiny of troops.
Background of the Cadiz Constitution
The Cadiz Constitution, drafted in 1812, was a highly liberal document for its time, reflecting the progressive ideas of its drafters during the early nineteenth century. It established principles such as national sovereignty, separation of powers, and freedom of the press, significantly limiting the power of the monarchy.
Upon his return to Spain in 1814 after the Napoleonic Wars, Ferdinand VII, a staunch absolutist, quickly abolished this constitution, re-establishing his absolute rule and suppressing liberal movements.
The Forced Re-acceptance in 1820
However, the political climate shifted significantly by 1820. Discontent with Ferdinand VII's authoritarian rule and economic hardships grew, particularly within the military. A military uprising, specifically a mutiny of troops, occurred. This widespread insubordination and the threat it posed to his reign left the king with no viable alternative.
Key factors leading to the King's acceptance:
- Military Pressure: The direct and immediate cause was the widespread mutiny among Spanish troops who demanded the restoration of the constitution.
- Political Instability: The mutiny signaled deep-seated unrest and a potential for broader rebellion, which the king could not suppress without further destabilizing his rule.
- Grudging Concession: Facing overwhelming force and popular support for the constitution among the rebels, Ferdinand VII was compelled to accept the Cadiz Constitution, albeit reluctantly. His acceptance was not a genuine embrace of liberal principles but a pragmatic response to preserve his throne in the face of a direct military challenge.
This period, known as the Trienio Liberal (1820-1823), saw the Cadiz Constitution briefly restored before Ferdinand VII, with foreign assistance, managed to abolish it once again.
| Event | King's Action (1814) | King's Action (1820) |
|---|---|---|
| Cadiz Constitution | Abolished upon his return. | Forced to accept due to troop mutiny. |
