Catalan independence refers to the movement in the Catalonia region of Spain that seeks to establish it as a separate, sovereign nation. Catalonia has its own distinct language, culture, and history, which many residents feel justifies their desire for independence. The movement gained significant momentum in the early 21st century, leading to large-scale protests and a controversial referendum in 2017. The push for independence has been met with resistance from the Spanish government, which argues that the unity of the country must be maintained. Legal and political disputes have arisen, creating ongoing tensions between Catalan leaders and the central government in Madrid.