Catalonia: The Struggle Over Independence

Catalonia is a minority or internal nation in Spain, with a distinct language and culture, separate social and political institutions, and a strong collective identity. In recent years, Catalan independence has become the formal objective of nationalist parties, the focus of a mobilized social movement, and the primary option of as much as half of Catalonia's electorate. This drive to independence led to a failed unilateral declaration of independence, but the book argues that the Catalan question can be resolved within Spain by creating a multinational federation. It also explores the dangers and contradictions of a state nationalism that denies the existence of internal nations and addresses a critical challenge to the political institutions of much of Europe and North America.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 10 February 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Catalonia, nestled in the northeastern corner of Spain, has long showcased the characteristics of a nation, boasting a distinct language and culture, separate social and political institutions, and a strong collective identity. At the same time, it stands as a hub of economic dynamism and innovation, making it an exceptional example of what is commonly referred to as minority or internal nations within a larger political framework. Despite the systematic suppression of Catalan language and culture under the Franco dictatorship, the notion that the Catalan nation deserved its own independent state persisted on the periphery of Catalan politics. However, in recent years, Catalan independence has emerged as a formal objective of Catalonia's nationalist parties, the focal point of a fervently mobilized social movement, and the preferred choice of up to half of Catalonia's electorate. This unwavering drive for independence has even led to a failed unilateral declaration of independence.

In order to comprehend this remarkable transformation and its implications for the future of Catalonia and Spain, this new edition aims to provide answers. The book delves into the proposal for an independent Catalan state while also exploring the potential for resolving the Catalan question within Spain through the creation of a multinational federation. It sheds light on the reasons why these projects are unlikely to materialize, highlighting the dangers and contradictions inherent in a state nationalism that denies the existence of internal nations. At the same time, it offers insights into the terms under which such nations can be accommodated within a larger political order, presenting a critical challenge to the political institutions of much of Europe and North America.

The book's exploration of the Catalan question is particularly insightful, as it sheds light on the complex dynamics and historical factors that have shaped the region's identity and aspirations. It highlights the historical marginalization of Catalan culture and language, as well as the efforts of Catalan nationalists to reclaim their heritage and assert their rightful place within Spain. The book also examines the broader political context in which the Catalan question unfolds, including the tensions between central government and regional administrations, as well as the broader social and economic challenges facing Catalonia.

One of the key themes of the book is the notion of nationhood and the challenges it poses to contemporary political systems. The author argues that the traditional understanding of nationhood, which is based on shared cultural and historical roots, may not be sufficient to accommodate the diverse identities and aspirations of modern societies. Instead, the book proposes a more inclusive and flexible model of nationhood that recognizes the existence of internal nations and allows for their accommodation within a larger political order.

The book also explores the potential benefits and drawbacks of Catalan independence. On the one hand, independence would provide Catalan citizens with greater autonomy and control over their own affairs, allowing them to shape their own destiny and develop their unique cultural identity. On the other hand, independence would also raise significant challenges, including economic instability, political fragmentation, and potential tensions with other regions of Spain.

In conclusion, this new edition of The Catalan Question provides a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the complex and multifaceted issue of Catalan independence. It offers valuable insights into the historical, political, and social factors that have shaped the region's identity and aspirations, and it proposes a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with Catalan nationhood in the contemporary world. Whether one supports or opposes Catalan independence, this book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of contemporary European politics.

Weight: 722g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198801832
Edition number: 2 Revised edition