Trágala facts for kids
Trágala (which means "swallow it" in Spanish) is a famous song from Spain. People sang it to make fun of and challenge the "absolutists." These were people who believed the king should have all the power. The song became popular after a military uprising led by Rafael del Riego in 1820. This event started a time called the Trienio Liberal (1820-1823), when Spain tried to be more democratic.
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What is the Trágala Song?
The Trágala song was a way for people who supported a more modern government (called "liberals") to show their feelings. They used it to embarrass those who wanted the king to rule without any limits.
Why Was the Song Created?
The song was especially aimed at King Ferdinand VII. In 1820, he was forced to agree to a new set of rules for the country, called the Constitution of Cadiz. He famously said, "Let us march frankly, and I the first, by the constitutional path." This meant he would follow the new rules. It is believed that Rafael del Riego himself ordered the song to be sung when he entered Madrid.
A Symbol of Resistance
Later, after other European countries helped King Ferdinand VII regain his full power, the song became a symbol. It showed that people were still fighting against the king's strict rule. This period was known as the Ominous Decade. The Trágala song is thought to be similar to other protest songs, like Ça Ira from the French Revolution.
The Song's History
Over time, the Trágala song was sung in Spain with different words. It became a symbol for people who supported left-wing ideas against right-wing groups, the Catholic Church, or the monarchy (the king and queen). It was very popular during the Second Spanish Republic and the Spanish Civil War. Many versions of the song existed, and no one knows who wrote the original words.
The Counter Song: La Pitita
There was also a song called La Pitita. This was a counter-song sung by people who supported King Ferdinand VII and his absolute power.
