The Federalization of Spain (Routledge Studies in Federalism and Decentralization)

Traces the origins of the complex system of devolution and regional home rule that currently shapes and directs the Spanish political process. Booknews Using Spain as a model, Moreno (Spanish National Research Council) analyzes issues of regional and national accommodation in states of plural composition. Topics include concepts and assumptions about territorial power, such as center and periphery, ethnic group, federalism, nation-building, nationalism and state-formation; the development of the Spanish national state; plurality, asymmetry and nationalisms within decentralized Spain; and the dual identity national and regional of most Spanish citizens. Comparisons are made throughout the text to other advanced, industrial democracies whose characteristics are similar to those of Spain. Distributed by ISBS. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) "The Federalization of Spain deals primarily with the process of devolution in the country, which was initiated with the transition to democracy after the death of General Franco. Since 1978, Spain has gone through a simultaneous process of democratization and decentralization. The first chapter discusses theoretical concepts such as centre and periphery, ethnic group, federalism, nation-building, nationalism and state formation. A review of the historical background of Spain is followed by the analysis of the transfers of political powers to 'historical nationalities' - Basque Country, Catalonia, Galicia - and regions." This volume traces the origins of the complex system of devolution and regional home rule that currently shapes and directs the Spanish political process.