Botifler facts for kids
Botiflers was a name given to people who supported Philip V of Spain during a big fight called the War of the Spanish Succession. This war happened a long time ago.
Most of these supporters were important people from Catalonia and Valencia in Spain. They were often rich and powerful families, known as nobility or aristocracy. They hoped to get more power and influence if Philip V won the war. This would happen under the new ruling family, the House of Bourbon.
In a place called Majorca, the word changed a bit to "botifarres." There, it started to mean any nobleman, no matter where they were from.
The word "Botifler" first meant someone with big, puffy cheeks. Later, it was used for supporters of the Bourbon family. This was because people said the Bourbon supporters also had puffy cheeks.
Today, people who believe in Catalan nationalism or Valencian nationalism sometimes use the word "Botifler." They use it in a negative way for anyone who supports the House of Bourbon ruling Spain. They also use it for people who want a strong central government in Spain. Or, for anyone who acts against the interests of Catalonia or Valencia.
Contents
Who Were the Botiflers?
The Botiflers were a group of people who sided with Philip V of Spain. This was during a major conflict called the War of the Spanish Succession. This war decided who would be the next king of Spain.
Why Did They Support Philip V?
Many Botiflers were wealthy and important people. They were often from noble families in Catalonia and Valencia. They believed that supporting Philip V would help them gain more power. They thought the new Bourbon rulers would give them special favors.
What Did "Botifler" Mean?
The word "Botifler" has an interesting history.
Original Meaning
Originally, "Botifler" was a funny way to describe someone. It meant a person who had very full or "inflated" cheeks. Imagine someone with chubby cheeks!
How the Meaning Changed
Later, the word started to be used for supporters of Philip V. People said that these supporters also had big cheeks. So, the name became linked to the Bourbon side in the war.
Botiflers Today
The word "Botifler" is still used today, but its meaning has changed again.
Modern Use
Today, people who support Catalan or Valencian nationalism use the term. They use it to describe people who support the current Spanish royal family. This family is part of the House of Bourbon. They also use it for those who believe in a strong central government for Spain. It's often used to show disapproval.
See also
