Description
Constitution of Cádiz
Book summary
This edition presents the complete text of the 1812 Constitution, known as "La Pepa," the first liberal charter of Spain. The reader will find the foundational document that established national sovereignty, the separation of powers, and individual rights against monarchical absolutism. An essential work for understanding the origins of Spanish constitutionalism and the birth of the liberal State, which marked a turning point in the political history of Spain and Latin America.
What is it about?
The Constitution of Cádiz, approved on March 19, 1812, represents the first serious attempt to establish a liberal regime in Spain. The text proclaims a transoceanic, free, and independent Spanish nation that is not the property of any family or person, thereby limiting the rights of the monarchy. Among its main provisions, it establishes national sovereignty, institutes a constitutional monarchy with a separation of powers, proclaims indirect universal male suffrage, and recognizes fundamental freedoms such as those of the press, industry, commerce, and private property. Likewise, it abolished feudal lordships and granted citizenship to those born in the American colonies. The document reflects the ideals of liberal deputies Agustín Argüelles, Diego Muñoz Torrero, and Pérez de Castro, key figures in its drafting. The work also includes the historical context of its application, from its repeal by Ferdinand VII in 1814 to its restoration during the Liberal Triennium (1820–1823) and its validity between 1836 and 1837.
Main themes
- National sovereignty and the limitation of monarchical power
- Separation of powers as the basis of the liberal State
- Individual rights: freedom of the press, industry, commerce, and private property
- Abolition of feudal lordships and the transformation of the Old Regime
- Citizenship and recognition of rights for those born in the American colonies
- Catholic confessionality of the State
- Historical context of early Spanish constitutionalism and its impact on the independence of the American colonies
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at students and professionals of law, history, and political science who wish to access the original text of the first Spanish Constitution. It is also of great interest to historians specializing in the period of the Cortes of Cádiz, Spanish liberalism, and the Latin American independence movements. Furthermore, it is a recommended read for anyone interested in understanding the foundations of modern constitutionalism and the origins of the rule of law in Spain.
What this book provides
- Direct access to the full text of the 1812 Constitution, a foundational document of Spanish liberalism
- Understanding of the principles that laid the foundations for modern constitutionalism in Spain
- Historical context explaining the tensions between absolutism and liberalism in the 19th century
- Keys to understanding the impact of "La Pepa" on the independence of the American colonies
- An essential study tool for the analysis of the political and legal evolution of Spain
Technical specifications
- Author: Various Authors
- Publisher: Linkgua Ediciones
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: Classical texts
- Collection: Laws
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: May 2025
- Number of pages: 92
- Weight: 170 g
Editorial review
This paperback edition of the Constitution of Cádiz offers practical and manageable access to one of the most relevant legal texts in the history of Spain. Its lightweight format and essential content make it a useful tool for both academic study and quick reference. The work is especially valuable for those who need the original text of "La Pepa" in an affordable volume, without extensive critical apparatus, focused on the precision of the historical document. A recommended acquisition for the personal libraries of students and professionals of law and history.