Catalonia's bid for independence from Spain explained

It is Spain's biggest political crisis since democracy was restored in 1975, after the death of military dictator Gen Francisco Franco

Catalan separatists win absolute majority in election

Catalan elections: Pro-indy parties win majority against all odds

Thousands of protesters have gathered in Brussels in support of deposed Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont

Belgian police were on hand but the early stages of the protest were peaceful, AFP reporters said.

Catalonian independence protesters flock to Brussels in show of support of Carles Puigdemont

Puigdemont launches Catalan election campaign from Belgium

Ousted Catalonian leader kicked off his campaign from the outskirts of Bruges and called on voters to back independence

'Political prisoners': More than 750,000 march for release of Catalan leaders

Barcelona police said about 750,000 people had attended and many had come from across Catalonia

Catalonia independence protesters block dozens of roads as general strike brings parts of region to standstill

Secessionist demonstrators occupy 60 roads across region causing traffic chaos

Carles Puigdemont: This is not just about Catalonia. This is about democracy itself

Spain has imposed a political agenda that goes against the will of the majority of Catalans. We will defend our rights to the end

Catalonia Tottering

Mr. Rajoy should display magnanimity by apologizing for the behavior of the police on Oct. 1 and pledging greater respect for Catalan national yearnings