La Iglesia y los sacerdotes cubanos ante el régimen constitucional gaditano (1812-1814 y 1820-1823)

Abstract

The Constitution of Cadiz was applied throughout Cuban territory in the two periods in which it was in force, 1812-1814 and 1820-1823, when the island was free from the convulsions of the wars of independence. This paper analyzes the participation of the Cuban ecclesiastical establishment in this process. As the sources reveal, the Cuban clergy, encouraged by the bishop of Havana, was characterized by its involvement at the local level in establishing the representative system. The clergy had a dual role as citizens and representatives of the new State, but were also vocal in defense of local interests against other authorities, and resisted the criticism of the most pro-colonial reactionary faction, especially during the Liberal Triennium.