This work brings together the study of political and literary thought in response to revolution in order to present an alternative view of the strength of liberalism generally and progressivism in particular. It re-examines the achievements of progressive thought about politics, history, nationhood, and literature, investigating the basis of the philosophical dispute between Conservative and left Liberals. The strong presence of progressive thought in Spain is affirmed. The study also underlines the importance for literary historians of understanding more sympathetically the contribution of Conservative Liberal thought to a recognizable Liberal Romanticism.