Catalonia has a
history, a culture, a language, an activism and a body politic that will drive
secession from Spain. As one of Spain's richest and most
highly industrialised regions, it is also one of the most independent-minded. Most
of the region's population lives in Barcelona, its vibrant political and
economic hub.
Its distinct
history stretches back to the early middle ages and many Catalans think of
themselves as a separate nation from the rest of Spain. When Spain became a
republic in 1931, Catalonia was given broad autonomy and was a key Republican
stronghold during the Spanish Civil War.
The fall of
Barcelona to General Franco's right-wing forces in 1939 marked the beginning of
the end of Spanish resistance to him. Franco revoked Catalonia’s autonomy and
restricted the use of the Catalan language. After Franco’s death there was a
re- emergence of a democratic Spain and Catalonia established its own
parliament with extensive autonomy.
The call for secession by Catalans has been fed by Spain's economic crisis, many Catalans believing that they pay more to Madrid than they get back, and blame Spain's debt crisis on the Spanish Government. The Catalonia regional government is backed by the two main separatist parties, held an informal vote on independence in 2014. Whilst the informal vote for independence in 2014, was not overwhelmingly supported 80% of those who did participate voted "yes".
Catalonia will in one day be an independent country and Barcelona will be the capital city and one of the world’s most liveable and more importantly sustainable cities.
Watch this space!
