Catalonia: Tensions continuing to rise

Carles Puigdemont and 13 of his dismissed officials have been ordered by Spanish officials to report to court and pay 6.2 million euros in bail or have their personal assets seized. They face charges of sedition and misuse of public funds over he banned referendum that took place last month

On September 20th, it was reported that 12 Catalonian officials were arrested along with the seizure of 45,000 envelopes destined for households to notify folks of the coming referendum. Also, 1.3 million posters and flyers were seized as well. The Spanish authorities reported 2.26 million votes counted, 90% of which were in favor of an independent Catalonia. Spain sees this as an unconstitutional act. The Spanish/Catalonian conflict goes back man years. In 1469 the Iberian peninsula is split into 5 kingdoms. Portugal, Navarre, Islamic Empire of Granada, Aragon, and Castilla y Leon. Catalonia at the time was part of the Aragon empire and the local languages were Aragonese and Catalan. This kingdom dominated trade and many wealthy merchants flocked to the port of Barcelona. During the Spanish civil war that lasted from 1702-1714. In this war, under Philip the IV, Castilla y Leon conquered most of the Iberian peninsula. September 11th, 1714, Catalina's troops surrendered to Phillip's forces, enacting the Nueva Planta decrees. This banned the main traditional Catalan political institutions and rights. He even made it illegal to speak the their language. Ever since then, Catalonia hasn't had the same freedoms.

If Catalonia broke away, it would bring 20% of Spain's economy with it. International chemical companies have a huge presence in Catalonia with companies like Hempel, Sandoz, Merck, Dow, Bluestar Silicones, BASF, and many more. In fact, there are over 700 chemical companies operating in Catalonia and still growing. As of 2016, This sector alone produces employment to about 32,680 people, making up 8% of the Catalan industry and an amazing 37% of the chemical sector in Spain. Catalonia also account for 25% of Spains total exports! Will Catalonia be able to break away and start their own nation independent nation? What extent will Spain go to to stop this from happening?