Relations with the peasantry and workers

The history of Spain reflects complex relationships between social classes, especially between peasants and workers. From the Middle Ages, dominated by a feudal system that generated dependence and oppression, to the 19th century with the Industrial Revolution, which created the proletariat by attracting peasants to the cities in search of better conditions, these interactions have shaped the social and economic structure of the country.

August 19, 2025

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The history of Spain is marked by complex relationships between social classes, especially between the peasantry and workers, which have been fundamental in shaping the social and economic structure of the country. From the Middle Ages to the 21st century, these interactions have been influenced by economic, political, and cultural factors, leaving an indelible mark on Spanish history.

The Peasantry in the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, rural life in Spain was dominated by a feudal system that structured the relationships between peasants and the nobility. Peasants, who were mostly farmers, were bound to the lands of feudal lords. This system created economic dependency, where peasants worked the land in exchange for protection and the right to cultivate their own fields. However, this relationship was unequal and often oppressive, as peasants had to pay tributes and fulfill various obligations.

Peasant revolts, such as the Comuneros uprising in Castile in the 16th century, reflect the frustration of peasants against the injustices of the feudal system and the centralization of monarchical power. These mobilizations often sought improvements in living conditions and greater participation in local political affairs. Despite their significance, such revolts were often brutally repressed.

The Industrial Revolution and the Birth of the Proletariat

The 19th century brought the Industrial Revolution, a phenomenon that radically transformed the economic and social structure of Spain. The rise of industry in cities like Bilbao and Barcelona attracted many peasants to urban areas in search of work, giving rise to a new social group: the proletariat. This massive migration from the countryside to the city was driven by the desire to escape rural poverty and find better opportunities.