Timeline to momentous breakaway

FURY Cop and protester LAST night’s historic decision came 26 days after Catalonia’s independence referendum.

Spain called the vote illegal and ordered the Guardia Civil to clamp down, sparking shocking violence. Of the 43% taking part in the October 1 poll, 90% backed breakaway.

Catalan President Carles Puigdemont signed a declaration of independence but immediately halted the process and called for negotiations.

A deadline set by Madrid for Mr Puigdemont to outline his demands passed, prompting plans to impose direct rule.