Identifying as Iberians or Europeans: A Spanish Perspective

Introduction

How do Spaniards identify themselves as Europeans or as Iberians? This question touches on the complex cultural, geographical, and political identities of people in the Iberian Peninsula. Spaniards often identify themselves as both Iberians and Europeans, with a strong regional and provincial sense of identity. This article explores the various layers of identity that Spaniards embrace and how they define themselves in relation to their European and Iberian heritage.

Regional Identity

Spaniards often identify themselves first by their region. For instance, they might consider themselves Asturian, Galician, Basque, or Castillian. This regional identity plays a significant role in their sense of self and can influence their language, customs, and cultural practices. Foreigners are generally identified by their country of origin, while non-Europeans are often simply referred to as 'Europeans.' This approach highlights the importance of regional distinctiveness within the broader national identity.

Bridging Iberian and European Identities

The Iberian Peninsula is a crucial component of Western Europe, and Spaniards can trace their roots back to the ancient Iberian civilizations that lived there. Many Spaniards see themselves as both Iberians and Europeans, and this duality is often reflected in their cultural practices and societal structures. Identifying as Iberian goes beyond just the geographical boundaries of the peninsula; it includes Portugal and Andorra, as they share a common cultural heritage despite having distinct political borders.

However, the relationship with Portugal is complex. While on good terms, many Spaniards feel that there isn’t a strong cultural bond between the two nations. This might be due to historical, linguistic, or political factors that have created distinct identities within the Iberian sphere.

Political and Cultural Identities

Spaniards often prioritize their identity as citizens of Spain, which is deeply rooted in their sense of unity and national pride. While they may feel a strong connection to their province or regional language/dialect, such as Galician or Basque, this does not necessarily mean a need to identify primarily with these regions. Many Spaniards see themselves as individuals who are part of the larger Spanish nation and culture.

The concept of identification can be questioned, as some might ask, "What is the purpose of identifying as something?" This question underscores the complexity of personal and collective identity in the modern world. For many, the act of identifying is about affirming one's place in a community and culture, but it is also a personal choice that can be influenced by various factors, including political, social, and cultural influences.

Some argue that the term "Iberian" is sometimes used as a way to avoid the label "Hispanic," which is often associated with a broader, more expansive identity that includes Latin American nations. The term "Iberian" is more specific and can be seen as a way to emphasize the distinct historical and cultural heritage of the Iberian Peninsula.

Additionally, the term "Latina" is used to describe people from Latin America, distinguishing them from those in the Iberian Peninsula. This further emphasizes the need for clear and accurate geographical and cultural distinctions.

Conclusion

Spaniards' identity is multifaceted, encompassing both regional and national dimensions, as well as a broader European and Iberian context. While their primary identity is often as citizens of Spain, many also recognize their deep roots in the Iberian Peninsula and their place within Western Europe. The act of identifying with these different layers of identity serves to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region and the unity among nations within the European community.

By understanding the complexity of these identities, we can better appreciate the diversity and interconnectedness of the Iberian and European peoples.