The Rise of Basque Nationalism: A Historical Overview
Basque Nationalism: Origins and Development
The Founding Environment
In the late 19th century, an atmosphere of defending traditional rights and charters arose in the Basque Country. The 1876 law created divisions, leading to two main responses:
- Some accepted the situation and focused on economic opportunities.
- Others sought to restore traditional rights and charters, leading to the rise of Basque nationalism.
Basque Nationalism: Key Figures and Goals
Drivers:
Sabino Arana was a key figure in the early Basque nationalist movement.
Objective:
The movement aimed to restore full sovereignty and independence for the Basque Country.
Motto:
“God and the Old Law”
The Basque Nationalist Party (PNV):
Founded in 1895, the PNV initially faced internal divisions:
- Supporters of full independence.
- Supporters of autonomy within Spain.
Dominant Characteristics:
The autonomy-seeking faction, led by the PNV, gained control and advocated for a model based on the Catalan autonomy movement. They promoted the idea of “the reproduction of the Basque Country in Spain.”
The Foundations of Basque Nationalism
By the end of the 19th century, Basque nationalism emerged from bizkaitarrismoa, a movement initially focused on Biscay. The foundations of Basque nationalism included:
- Race
- Language
- Law
- Nature
- Traditions
Reaction Against the Spanish State:
The birth of Basque nationalism was a reaction against Spanish dominance and a perceived national identity crisis following the Spanish-American War.
Sabino Arana’s View:
Sabino Arana believed that independence was the only way to protect Basque society from the negative influences of the modern world, such as secularism, immigration, and industrialization.
Ramon de la Sota and Moderate Nationalism
In contrast to Arana’s ethnic and rural nationalism, Ramon de la Sota, a prominent businessman, advocated for a more moderate, autonomist approach. He believed that autonomy within Spain could achieve Basque goals.
Two Trends in Basque Nationalism:
Two magazines reflected the different trends within Basque nationalism:
- “Venue” (Ramon de la Sota)
- “Bizkaitarra” (Luis Arana)
Internal Divisions and the Emergence of ANV:
In 1910, a group advocating for freedom, patriotism, and republicanism split from the PNV. This group later formed the Basque Nationalist Action (ANV) during the Second Republic.
The First Social Appearance of Nationalism
From 1918 onwards, a group of nationalists gained influence in Gipuzkoa. However, Basque nationalism did not gain significant traction in Alava until the Second Republic.
Evolution of Basque Nationalism
1907:
Angel Zabala, advocating for independence, gained prominence. Ramon de la Sota, with his economic influence, also gained support within the PNV.
1916:
Luis Arana left the PNV, and Ramon de la Sota became the leader. The party shifted towards a more autonomist stance.
The First World War:
The First World War benefited the Basque middle class, particularly Ramon de la Sota. Basque nationalism became increasingly associated with the bourgeoisie.
Aims of Moderate Basque Nationalism:
- Decentralized autonomy within Spain.
- Promotion of industrialization.
- Distancing from traditional agriculture.
- Emphasis on local culture.
1921:
Eli Gallastegi advocated for a moderate approach, while Sabina Arana maintained his pro-independence stance. This led to a split within the PNV, with Luis Arana forming a more radical faction.
1930:
Gallastegiren Arana, extreme nationalism and strong resistance to the dictatorship of Primo de Rivera, the system fall, 1930, and together the two aspects of nationalism within the PNV was restored, the Second Republic had a great role.