Work

Understanding the complexity of the ‘blood tax’: the Spanish conscription system

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Social history has often examined ‘draft riots’ as expressions of public outrage against unfair conscription systems. In Spain, military service frequently provoked revolts, as it disproportionately affected underprivileged groups. Until 1912, redención en metálico (cash redemption) allowed wealthy individuals to avoid service, making Spain one of the last countries to abolish this system. Known as the ‘blood tax,’ it triggered riots, including the 1909 Barcelona uprisings. Despite its historical significance, Spanish conscription remains understudied. This article introduces Spain’s conscription system to an international audience and examines its historiographical treatment.

Source: War & Society

DOI: 10.1080/07292473.2025.2473189

Author: Alfonso Bermúdez Mombiela

Institutions: Universidad de Zaragoza, Centro Universitario de la Defensa Zaragoza

Language: English

Topic: Spanish History and Politics

Subfield: History

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: green

Funder: Agencia Estatal de Investigación