Spanish History from the 18th Century to the Civil War and Franco

Description
The main objective of this subject is to study the most important political, economic, social and cultural developments that took place over more than two centuries. The starting point is the establishment of the House of Bourbon in Spain and it ends with the installation of the Franco regime. This period is of utmost importance in understanding Spain today. More specific objectives of this course include acquisition of concepts and a basic understanding of Spain: demographic evolution, economic development, social changes and movements, alterations in the political systems and the succession of proposals and cultural movements. Students will have to become familiar with the main historical processes in Spain in the 18th century and in more contemporary times, and also with the specific historical vocabulary used.

Content
Introduction
1. The socio-economic bases of Spain during the 18th century.
2. The Bourbons: administrative structure and political evolution.
3. The Age of Enlightenment: proposals and realities.
4. Charles IV: Napoleon’s invasion and the Courts in Cadiz.
5. End of the Old Regime and creation of the liberal State.
6. Society and culture in liberal Spain.
7. From the “Democratic six-year period” to the Restoration.
8. Culture and society between two centuries.
9. The reign of Alfonso XIII: “regenerationismo”, “parlamentarismo” and dictatorship.
10. The Second Republic and the Civil War.

Epilogue. Franco’s Spain.

Assessment
The students will be assessed in a mid-course and final exam. The final grade will be calculated from the students’ average grades. Both of these written tests will constitute a third of the final grade. The analysis (a short text commentary), vocabulary (short definitions) and study (questions about the program); will provide a very accurate impression of the student’s understanding and assimilation processes. 20% may be added to the final grade if students perform voluntary tasks proposed during the course (written commentaries, synopses of books or monographs), and for active participation in class and regular attendance, as required by this Centre.