Corsica has one of Europe’s deepest-rooted national movements, shaped by island geography, the Corsican language, and a dramatic history of anti-colonial resistance. In 1729, Corsicans launched a long revolt against Genoese rule, eventually proclaiming an independent republic under Pasquale Paoli (1755–1769).

Paoli introduced a democratic constitution—including universal male suffrage—and founded a national university, making Corsica one of the first modern constitutional republics.  France purchased the island from Genoa in 1768, and after a final defeat at Ponte Novu in 1769, Corsica was absorbed into the French state. Throughout the 19th–20th centuries, linguistic decline and large-scale emigration challenged Corsican identity. However, the 20th century also saw a resurgence of cultural pride, culminating in autonomist and separatist movements. For decades, armed groups such as the FLNC carried out attacks targeting symbols of French authority, although a permanent ceasefire was declared in 2014. 

Today, the cause is driven through democratic institutions, particularly the Corsican Assembly, where autonomist coalitions frequently win majorities. Demands range from recognition of Corsicans as a distinct people, protection of the Corsican language, and fiscal autonomy, to full independence. Negotiations with Paris continue over constitutional reforms, placing Corsica at the forefront of France’s debate over self-determination inside a unitary state.