Founding of the Governess Benevolent Institution

In the 1840s, labor reform was a highly politicized topic. A lot of reform was happening in an attempt to address some of the labor issues recently brought to light. In response to public outcries, the Governess Benevolent Institution was founded in London in 1841. It's purpose was to assist governesses during illness, poverty, and old age. It also brought attention to the public of some of the horrible working conditions governesses were subjected to. This institution served to mainly formalize the profession.

The Origins of Catalan Separatism

A common theme throughout Catalonian history is its nationalism, whether expressed through symbolism in artwork, culture, or traditions. The struggle and movements toward Catalan autonomy and independence is a historically ongoing issue. But the question is, where did this nationalism stem from? What are the origins of Catalan separatism? 

Modernism and its Unique Development in Catalonia

Art continues to change and develop, one style preluding to the next. Modernism was a political-cultural movement that sought to transform Catalan society. Modernism flourished in Europe around 1880-1915. In Catalonia, this movement coincided with their movement towards autonomy and independence. With this in mind, the Catalan modernist style includes many symbolic elements reflecting the nationalism of their creators. This symbolism directly ties into the context of the era, with elements of nationalism.

Catalonia’s Journey for Independence (Barcelona)

The events throughout Catalonia’s journey to independence will shed light on how Catalonia built resilience and a great sense of nationalism. However, despite wanting independence, Catalonia struggles throughout the years to practice unity, and hence the journey of independence is a long one. From inner conflicts to oppression from Spain, this timeline depicts events from 1640-1984 that have significantly impacted Catalonia as a nation and contribute to artwork, such as the Casa Batllo.

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