Linguistic Autonomy and Political Sovereignty: the Case of Catalonia

honors thesisCollege of HumanitiesWorld Languages & CulturesDr. Elizabeth WarrenThe significance of language on human life is undeniable: it not only allows for communication, but also contributes to the construction of a cultural identity. Groups that have experienced cultural oppression, such as the Catalans, tend to establish even stronger connections to their language, using it not only to culturally differentiate, but also to create a distinct political identity separate from that of their oppressor. Throughout Catalonia's history, Catalans have continually demonstrated their attachment to their language and confirmed the importance of linguistic autonomy in their culture. The purpose of this study is twofold. First, it will establish the significance of language in the construction of the Catalan identity. Then, it will identify a link between linguistic autonomy and political sovereignty in Catalonia. In doing so, this study aims to establish the significance of linguistic autonomy, and expose the ramifications that may arise as a result of its denial