A person who supports the separation of a particular group from a larger organization or state, often seeking independence or autonomy. Commonly used in political contexts regarding regions seeking to break away from nations.
From Latin 'separatus' (past participle of 'separare,' to separate) + English suffix '-ist' (one who practices or advocates). The term gained prominence in the 17th century during religious conflicts, then expanded to political movements.
Separatist movements have shaped world history from the American Revolution to modern independence movements in Scotland and Catalonia. Interestingly, the term was first widely used to describe religious groups separating from established churches, before becoming primarily political!
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