Spanish Draft Constitution of 1856 facts for kids

The Spanish Constitution of 1856 is often called the "unborn" constitution. This is because even though the parliament approved it, it was never actually put into use. A powerful general named Leopoldo O'Donnell led a sudden takeover, which stopped the government that supported this constitution.

This constitution was an attempt by a group called the Progressives to make important changes in Spain. However, Isabella II of Spain, who was the Queen at the time, saw it as an illegal document. She quickly ordered the special meeting (called the constituent assembly) that created it to be shut down. Because of this, the constitution was officially seen as just a plan that never happened, even though it was technically a real constitution.

Why the 1856 Constitution Was Important

This constitution is still important to study because it gathered many ideas from the Progressive liberal way of thinking. It also included some ideas that were later used in the Spanish Constitution of 1869. The 1869 Constitution was very significant because it ended Queen Isabella's rule, which was very strict and had all the power. It then brought a more democratic king, Amadeo I of Spain, to the throne.

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