Description
Book SynopsisLocated in north eastern Spain, Catalonia has long displayed the attributes of a nation: distinct language and culture, separate social and political institutions, and a strong collective identity. At the same time, it is one of Spain''s centres of economic dynamism and innovation. As such, it is an especially striking instance of what has come to be known as ''minority'' or ''internal'' nations within a larger political order. Even after the Franco dictatorship''s systematic suppression of Catalan language and culture, the idea that the Catalan nation needed to have an independent state of its own remained at the margins of Catalan politics. Yet, in recent years Catalan independence has become: the formal objective of Catalonia''s nationalist parties; the focus of a strongly mobilized social movement; and the primary option of as much as half of Catalonia''s electorate. This drive to independence even led to a failed unilateral declaration of independence. How can this remarkable transformation best be explained and what does it portend for the future of Catalonia and Spain? This new edition seeks to answer these questions. At the same time, the book analyzes the proposal for an independent Catalan state while also showing how the Catalan question might be resolved within Spain, by creating a multinational federation. It also explains why there is little prospect of either project coming to pass. The book demonstrates the dangers and contradictions of a state nationalism that denies the very existence of internal nations, while also exploring the terms under which such nations can be accommodated within a larger political order. On this basis, it addresses a critical challenge to the political institutions of much of Europe and North America.
Trade ReviewReview from previous edition This is a well-informed and well-written book. It will be indispensable for all those interested in Catalan and Spanish politics and economics, as well as for those interested in the main challenges faced by nations without states in the age of globalization. * Political Studies Review *
This book offers an excellent and comprehensive introduction to the history, economics, culture, and political life of Catalonia. * Political Studies Review *
Meticulously researched, the strength of this book lies in its bibliography and information generated by a series of extensive interviews with Catalan politicians, civil servants and academics. The level of detail garnered in this account is remarkable, making it an excellent reference book ... the book contributes to the literature on Catalan nationalism and provides a succinct and accessible introduction to contemporary Catalonia. * Nations and Nationalism *
This book is dedicated in its entirety to contemporary Catalan politics, society and economics and, as such is a useful handbook for researchers and practitioners alike. * Nations and Nationalism *
Table of ContentsIntroduction Part I: Historical Development of the Catalan Nation 1: The Historical Roots of Nationhood 2: The Emergence of Catalan Nationalism 3: Catalonia and the Spanish State Part Two: Nation-Building and the Struggle Over Autonomy, 1980-2010 4: The Transition to Democracy: Avoiding Plurinationality 5: Nation-Building in an Autonomous Community 6: The Break-Down of 'Nation-building without a State' Part Three: The Struggle Over Independence, 2010-2020 7: From 'Right to Decide' to 'Independence' 8: Seeking Independence: the Procés and its Fate 9: The Persisting Confrontation over Independence 10: Conclusion: The Failure of Spain's Political Institutions
