The Basques, the Catalans and Spain: Alternative Routes to Political Mobilisation

by Daniele Conversi

Daniele Conversi's book is a comprehensive introduction to Basque and Catalan nationalism. The two movements have much in common but have differed in the strategies adopted to further their cause. Basque nationalism, in the shape of the military wing of ETA, took the path of violence, spawning an efficient terrorist campaign. Catalan nationalism, by contrast, is generally more accommodating and peaceful. Daniele Conversi examines and compares the history, motives and methods of these movements, considering the influence of such intertwined aspects of nationalist mobilisation as the choice of language, race and descent as core values; the consequences of large-scale immigration; and the causes and effects of political violence.

Genres: History

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Brendan McKee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dry but informative

[Johannes · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know, I know, it's a book from 1997 and can't anticipate a lot of the present-day developments in either Basque or Catalan nationalism. My very particular beef is with the section on racist thought in 19th century Catalan nationalism. The author acknowledges it existed, but then moves on, because it didn't become hegemonic. I find that bewildering for two reasons. One, the authors of those theories were very much read and revered by later protagonists of Catalan nation building. Those people, however, chose to de-emphasise race or ethnicity as basis of Catalan national identity. Therefore, two, the much more interesting question is why! Which this book does not answer. Alas.

[Graham · Rating 3 out of 5]

Case studies of nationalism among the Basques and Catalans in Spain. It shows the similar-but-different approaches these groups have taken to further their causes for recognition. The Catalans have found more accommodation by the Spanish government than the Basques, according to this book, based largely on the militant people amongst either population and their willingness/unwillingness to set aside violence.