Catalan separatist feel they have multiple reasons to secede from Spain but the main reasons are that they have their own culture, history, and language; have experienced a history of persecution as a result of Spanish rule; and that they are responsible for a large majority of Spain’s economic success.

They argue Catalonia has always had its own distinct language and culture and has been seeking independence since the mid-19th Century. They also say the region pays more than its fair share of income tax to Madrid - claims some economists dispute.