Catalonia 1930-1980: Society and Identity

Abstract

Jaume Claret examines developments in Catalonia between 1930 and 1980. This was a society that was transformed by demography and industrialisation whilst seeking to preserve its culture, language and identity. We must also note the centrality of the city of Barcelona in Catalan and Spanish political development. Catalonia entered the 1930s with a number of clashing political traditions and class forces but also made important advances in autonomy. Growing polarisation in Spain also impacted and the civil war exhibited multiple layers of internal and external conflicts. Defeat had severe consequences for a range of political cultures as well as the expressions of Catalan identity. Some cultural preservation was achieved, often through the Catholic church, which achieved a central role across society. The 1950s and 1960s produced dramatic population change, a new wave of economic transformation and posed challenges for a reviving nationalism. However, social consensus was maintained and unitary political demands were articulated during the transition.