Origins of the Iberian Divide in Political Inclusion

Democratic Practice: Origins of the Iberian Divide in Political Inclusion (Oxford Studies in Culture and Politics)

by Robert M. Fishman

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Language	:	English
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Abstract

This article explores the historical, cultural, and political factors that have contributed to the Iberian Divide in political inclusion. The Iberian Divide refers to the significant difference in levels of political inclusion between Spain and Portugal, with Spain faring much better than Portugal in terms of measures such as voter turnout, political participation, and representation of marginalized groups.

The Iberian Peninsula has long been divided into two distinct countries: Spain and Portugal. This division has had a profound impact on the political development of both countries, and it has also led to a significant difference in levels of political inclusion. Spain has consistently ranked higher than Portugal in measures of political inclusion, such as voter turnout, political participation, and representation of marginalized groups. This article explores the historical, cultural, and political factors that have contributed to the Iberian Divide in political inclusion.

Historical Factors

The historical development of Spain and Portugal has been very different. Spain was unified under a single monarchy in the 15th century, while Portugal remained an independent kingdom until the 19th century. This difference in political development led to different levels of political inclusion. In Spain, the monarchy was able to centralize power and control the political system, while in Portugal, the monarchy was weaker and more decentralized. This led to a greater degree of political participation in Spain, as well as a more inclusive political system.

Another important historical factor that contributed to the Iberian Divide in political inclusion was the Spanish Civil War. The Spanish Civil War was a brutal conflict that lasted from 1936 to 1939. The war resulted in the victory of the Nationalist forces led by Francisco Franco. Franco established a dictatorship that lasted until his death in 1975. The Franco dictatorship was characterized by repression and a lack of political inclusion. This repression had a lasting impact on Spain's political development, and it contributed to the country's low levels of political inclusion.

Cultural Factors

In addition to historical factors, cultural factors have also played a role in the Iberian Divide in political inclusion. Spain and Portugal have different cultures, and these differences have influenced the way that people in each country participate in politics. For example, Spain has a more individualistic culture than Portugal. This has led to a greater degree of political participation in Spain, as people are more likely to be involved in politics on their own behalf. In contrast, Portugal has a more collectivist culture. This has led to a lower degree of political participation in Portugal, as people are more likely to defer to the decisions of their leaders.

Political Factors

Political factors have also contributed to the Iberian Divide in political inclusion. The political systems of Spain and Portugal are different, and these differences have affected the levels of political inclusion in each country. For example, Spain has a parliamentary system, while Portugal has a semi-presidential system. This difference in political systems has led to different levels of political participation. In Spain, the parliamentary system has led to a greater degree of political participation, as people are more likely to be involved in the political process. In contrast, Portugal's semi-presidential system has led to a lower degree of political participation, as people are more likely to defer to the decisions of the president.

The Iberian Divide in political inclusion is a complex issue that is the result of a number of historical, cultural, and political factors. The differences in political development, culture, and political systems between Spain and Portugal have all contributed to the different levels of political inclusion in each country. This divide is a reminder of the importance of history, culture, and politics in shaping the way that people participate in politics.

Democratic Practice: Origins of the Iberian Divide in Political Inclusion (Oxford Studies in Culture and Politics)

by Robert M. Fishman

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2215 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE