The catalan separatist interest in Serbia during the first world war (1914-1919)

Abstract

This article examines the role of Catalan separatism during the First World War (1914–1919) and its strategic use of international parallels, particularly with Serbia, to legitimize its political aspirations. Catalan separatists framed Spain as a Germanophile power and Catalonia as an Allied sympathizer, establishing a narrative that sought international support for autonomy or independence. The article explores how Catalan nationalists used Serbia as their primary reference point, portraying it as a small oppressed nation struggling against imperialist forces (Austro-Hungary), akin to Catalonia’s supposed subjugation by Spain. Catalan propaganda aligned itself with the Serbian cause, organizing solidarity campaigns, advocating for Catalan volunteers in the French Foreign Legion, and engaging in diplomatic efforts. The Serbian consulate in Barcelona, led by Alejandro de Lacour, played a key role in facilitating these connections. However, despite these efforts, Catalan separatism remained a marginal movement, overshadowed by the Lliga Regionalista and lacking substantive international backing. At the Paris Peace Conference (1919), Catalan delegates attempted to gain recognition, presenting petitions to French, British, and Serbian representatives, but failed to achieve any diplomatic success. Ultimately, while the Catalan-Serbian parallel helped separatists gain publicity, it did not translate into concrete political gains. This case study contributes to the understanding of paradiplomatic strategies in nationalist movements, illustrating how separatist rhetoric employs historical analogies to gain legitimacy on the international stage.