The Basque Region Issue Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Basque Region Issue - Essay Example Many regions that have been facing problems of disparity and other internal conflicts; and have been constantly demanding secession and independence. This victory of Kosovo have spurred them no to become more forceful and focussed no obtaining their demands. One such region is the Basque region, which lies between France and Spain. The region has been the victim of constant internal strife, owing to the invasions and the constant struggle for recognising their independence and freedom from external interferences. The Basque region comprises the Basque population, who are very historically and culturally bound. In fact, they had been a part of the Roman civilisation and are, therefore, tribes with rich heritage value. However, as the years passed by, the region came under conflicting situations with Spain. "The Basques had been some of the fiercest opponents of Franco's Nationalist troops during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s. During Franco's 40-year rule, he punished the region for its opposition. He declared two provinces "traitor provinces." Franco believed in one, unified Spain and opposed any kind of regional diversification. Franco,  like  many before him, had found  it difficult to suppress this proud nation  and the  movement for an independent  Basque  homeland  began in  the late 1950s.  The separatist group, ETA, began its violent campaign 10  years later.  While support for an independent  homeland  remain  strong, it is by no means overwhelming. Many Basques  are happy with the large degree  of  autonomy  they have  been  granted by the  central  government in Madrid.