Josep Sunyol: The Martyr President of FC Barcelona
Josep Sunyol i Garriga was a multifaceted figure in early 20th-century Spain, blending a passion for sports with a deep commitment to Catalan political identity. A lawyer, journalist, and politician, Sunyol is most remembered today as the president of FC Barcelona who met a tragic end during the onset of the Spanish Civil War.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Josep Sunyol i Garriga.
- Roles: President of FC Barcelona, ERC deputy, and founder of La Rambla.
- Political Affiliation: Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC).
- Death: Executed by Francoist troops on August 6, 1936.
- Legacy: Known as the "Martyr President" by FC Barcelona.
Early Life and Political Ascent
Born on July 21, 1898, in Barcelona, Sunyol was raised in a wealthy family with a strong tradition of Catalan political activism. This background steered him toward left-wing politics, leading him to join Acció Catalana and the Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC), a pro-independence and republican party.
Sunyol utilized his skills in law and communication to challenge the status quo. In 1930, he founded La Rambla, a left-wing newspaper dedicated to opposing the dictatorship of the Primo de Rivera regime. His political influence grew rapidly, and he was elected as an ERC deputy to the Cortes (the Spanish parliament) in 1931, securing re-election in 1933 and 1936.
Leadership in Sports and Civil Society
Beyond the halls of parliament, Sunyol was a prominent leader in the sporting community. His administrative capabilities led him to serve as the president of both the Reial Automòbil Club de Catalunya and the Federació Catalana de Futbol.
His relationship with FC Barcelona began in 1928 when he became a director of the club. By 1935, he reached the pinnacle of the organization when he was elected president of FC Barcelona, guiding the club during a period of intense social and political volatility in Spain.
The Tragedy at Sierra de Guadarrama
The outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 brought a violent end to Sunyol's career. On August 6, 1936, while in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, Sunyol was arrested by Francoist troops. Shortly after his capture, he was murdered by one of Franco's soldiers.
For decades, the exact fate of his remains remained unknown. It was not until the 1990s that his body was exhumed, following a dedicated campaign by Els Amics de Josep Sunyol (The Friends of Josep Sunyol). This effort ensured that FC Barcelona could properly commemorate the 60th anniversary of his death in 1996. Today, a memorial stone stands in a park near the site of his execution, and the club honors him as the "Martyr President."
Summary of Josep Sunyol's Career
| Year/Period | Role/Achievement | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1928 | Director | FC Barcelona |
| 1930 | Founder | La Rambla (Newspaper) |
| 1931, 1933, 1936 | Deputy | Congress of Deputies (ERC) |
| 1935 | President | FC Barcelona |
| Various | President | Reial Automòbil Club de Catalunya & Federació Catalana de Futbol |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Josep Sunyol?
Josep Sunyol was a Catalan lawyer, journalist, and politician who served as the president of FC Barcelona and was a deputy for the Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC).
What was the purpose of the newspaper La Rambla?
Founded by Sunyol in 1930, La Rambla was a left-wing publication created to oppose the regime of Primo de Rivera.
How did Josep Sunyol die?
He was arrested and murdered by Francoist troops in the Sierra de Guadarrama on August 6, 1936, during the early stages of the Spanish Civil War.
When was his body recovered?
His body was exhumed in the 1990s following a campaign by the group Els Amics de Josep Sunyol.
Why is he called the "Martyr President"?
FC Barcelona uses this title to honor his memory and recognize that he was killed for his political beliefs and leadership during the Spanish Civil War.