Catalonia's Independence Movement

Catalonia held a referendum for independence from Spain, deemed illegal by Spanish courts. Despite a majority voting to secede, less than half of eligible voters participated. Spain's government plans to take over Catalonia's regional powers. Historically, Catalonia has sought autonomy, suppressed under Franco's dictatorship but regained with Spain's democracy. Economic factors also drive independence, as Catalonia contributes significantly to Spain's economy. However, most Catalans prefer to remain part of Spain. The situation has led to economic shifts and international attention, with EU leaders supporting Spain.

What was the outcome of the Catalonia independence referendum?

• 90% voted to secede

• It was canceled by the government

• It was postponed indefinitely

• Majority voted against independence

What was the Spanish government's response to Catalonia's unilateral declaration of independence?

• They held a new referendum

• They prepared to take over Catalonia's regional powers

• They ignored the declaration

• They accepted the decision

How did Francisco Franco's dictatorship impact regional diversity in Spain?

• It suppressed regional identities

• It had no impact on regional diversity

• It encouraged regional autonomy

• It promoted regional languages

What change occurred in Spain after Franco's death in 1975?

• Spain became a monarchy

• Spain transitioned to a democracy

• Spain became a communist state

• Spain remained a dictatorship

What was one of the goals of the 2006 Catalonia referendum?

• To merge Catalonia with another region

• To create a new economic model for Catalonia

• To eliminate the Catalan language

• To reduce Catalonia's autonomy

Why do some Catalans support independence from Spain?

• They want to adopt a new language

• They seek to become a monarchy

• They believe they pay too much in taxes

• They want to join Portugal

What economic role does Catalonia play in Spain?

• It is entirely dependent on Spanish subsidies

• It is the least prosperous region

• It accounts for one fifth of Spain's economic output

• It contributes the least to Spain's tax revenue

How did the European Union respond to Catalonia's independence movement?

• They offered immediate EU membership to Catalonia

• They supported Catalonia's independence

• They remained neutral

• They sided with the Spanish government

What has been the impact of the independence movement on businesses in Catalonia?

• Headquarters have moved out of Barcelona

• There has been no impact

• Businesses have thrived

• New businesses have flocked to Catalonia

What is a potential long-term challenge for Catalonia and Spain?

• Achieving peaceful coexistence

• Joining the United Nations

• Becoming a single-party state

• Adopting a new currency