Universal male suffrage and the political regeneration in Spain and France (1868-1871)

Abstract

Throughout the 19 th century, the establishment and the consolidation of universal male suffrage was a slow and difficult process. It was instituted in several nations where revolutions and/or wars had created a need for it. This was the case in Spain and in France where, between 1868 and 1871, a change in the political regime led to the introduction of legislative elections. In this context, universal suffrage, together with certain other rights, was considered a basic element for political regeneration. Thus, the initiatives taken by the political parties that were fighting for seats, the reaction of the media, the citizens confronted with the announcement of elections, and the attitude of the Government constituted a novel political environment. 1 This article is part of the research project "Historia cultural de la corrupción política en España y América Latina. Siglos xix-xx". MINECO-FEDER (UE): HAR2015-64973-P ((I+D+i).