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, and the book explores the reasons for this transformation and the prospects for a resolution to the Catalan question within Spain. It also examines the dangers and contradictions of state nationalism that denies the existence of internal nations and explores the terms under which such nations can be accommodated within a larger political order.

Format: Paperback / softback
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 also delves into the proposal for an independent Catalan state, while exploring how the Catalan question might be resolved within Spain through the creation of a multinational federation. Furthermore, it elucidates the reasons behind the limited prospects of both projects materializing. By highlighting the dangers and contradictions of a state nationalism that disregards the existence of internal nations, while also examining the conditions under which such nations can be accommodated within a larger political order, the book addresses a critical challenge to the political institutions of much of Europe and North America.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 235 x 155 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198801849
Edition number: 2 Revised edition