Círculo Ecuestre hosted the presentation of the book La nación sin autoestima. La leyenda negra de España, by Rafael Núñez, in a session focused on reflecting on history, culture, and the construction of collective identity.
The event was introduced by José Mª Cardellach, member of the Board of Governors of Círculo Ecuestre, and featured the participation of Alejandro Fernández, president of the People's Party of Catalonia and member of the Parliament of Catalonia, who presented the book. Subsequently, Juan Milián, general coordinator of the People's Party, led a discussion with the author.
During the session, participants addressed some of the main topics raised in the work, including the weight of the "black legend" in Spain's historical perception, the relationship between history and identity, and the role of culture in how a country explains itself and projects itself abroad.
History, culture, and international projection
Throughout the discussion, Núñez shared his vision on the importance of reviewing history from a broad perspective, capable of integrating both past debates and their influence on the present. In this sense, the conversation focused on how certain historical episodes, cultural narratives, and collective perceptions can influence the image a country projects inside and outside its borders.
The dialogue also addressed the role of cultural and audiovisual industries in constructing collective imaginaries. The speakers reflected on the capacity of culture, cinema, series, literature, education, and public diplomacy to contribute to greater international projection and to reinforce the so-called 'soft power'.
Another key aspect of the session at the Barcelona club was Spain's cultural and linguistic plurality. On this point, the debate highlighted the coexistence between different identities, the value of territorial diversity, and the need to understand this plurality as part of a shared history. During the Q&A session, attendees raised questions regarding education, languages, cultural stereotypes, immigration, and the role of culture in society.
With this session, Círculo Ecuestre offered a new space for dialogue surrounding history, culture, and identity, thereby promoting the exchange of ideas on current affairs.