Fueros and Self-rule in the Basque Country
The fueros were territorial charts which contained the legal framework according to which self-government was exerciced in the different territories of the Basque Country. Based on traditions and customs, they were simultaneously a sort of constitution and a civil and criminal code. Each territory had its own foral or statutory assembly (Junta General), where the deputies of the different municipalities met and exercised the legislative power in the province. This system, still in force, is extremely ancient and is considered as one of the first expressions of democracy in Europe. This situation was maintained until the 19th Century. After the Napoleonic wars, a new liberal regime was established in Spain, inspired by the post-revolutionary France, where charts and privileges were frowned upon, as they were regarded as a Feudal thing. The new regime threatened to cut the self-rule of the...
