History is created whenever thousands of people rage on roads. And this time, the calls were for independence and democracy, at the Barcelona parliament.
Out of 2.286.217, ninety two percent casted their vote in support of the liberation of Catalonia as an independent republic. On October 1st, the majority showed up their power as voters and led to the passing of the Catalan Independence Referendum.
However, on October 17th, the Constitutional Court of Spain declared it to be illegal, devastating the dreams of 2 million people.
Why They Want Independence?
The answer is not one, but many. A long rule, sufferings, discrimination, partiality and much is hidden behind the curtains. The Catalonians have suffered a lot for a long period of time.
How Significant Is Catalonia For Spain?
With mere 16% population, Catalans alone contribute to 20% of GDP, which is contrastingly enough, yet there is a sense of inferiority among Catalans to other Spain residents. Also, there is a difference in cultures.
But Is That An Enough Reason To Separate Nations?
Because if we start dividing India because of different cultures, we can’t even imagine how many fragments it will break into. So, it is not the different cultures, but lack of respect towards Catalans, which is troubling them since the start of nineteenth century. Quoting a fact, their local language was banned by Second Spanish Republic officially between 1939 to 1975.
What View Does Spain Has On This Separation?
The Spain holds a completely different view. It argues that any referendum on Catalan independence would be illegal because Spain’s 1978 constitution makes no provision for a vote on self-determination.
What About The Catalans?
The Catalan Parliament is looking into whether the law breaches the constitution. In March this year, the former Catalan president Artur Mas was banned from holding public office for two years, after being found guilty of disobeying the constitutional court by holding a symbolic independence referendum three years ago.
On the other hand, current members of the Catalan Government are facing legal action over their roles in the push for Independence. Their future is still in the doldrums.
What Has FC Barcelona To Do With It?
The Catalan Independence Movement has a great contribution by FC Barcelona, who happen to be half of the world’s favourite football club. It is adored by the world for its rich history and its unique attractive brand of attacking football.
But for the average Catalan, FC Barcelona is more than a club. It is a way of life. The entire club joined the movement for the liberty of Catalonia and its emergency as a separate, yet very powerful democracy. Stating an incident, after 17 minutes and 14 seconds of football were played between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid on October 6, 2012, the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona exploded with chants of Independencia! Independencia!
It is evident from herein, how badly the Catalans need their freedom!