A nation divided. Moderate Basque nationalism versus radicalism, 1977-1998

Abstract

Tensions between moderate and radical nationalism have had a significant effect on Basque politics. During the Spanish transition to democracy the PNV rejected left-wing nationalism whilst at the same time maintaining that it had a broadly similar political philosophy. Notably, from 1980 to 1988 a marked rift developed. Nevertheless, following this, relations improved because of a resurgence of the importance of unity in the national interest. This common goal led to the signing of the Pact of Lizarra (1988).

These changes may be explained by the changing political objectives of the PNV. From 1977 to 1988 the main aim was autonomy. However, overshadowed by ETA/HB, a division in nationalism occurred. In the following decade when the aim changed to overthrowing the statute, then ‘moderate nationalism’ became more radical, similar in many ways to left-wing nationalism.