independiente

Independiente is a Spanish adjective meaning independent, free from dependence, or autonomous. It can refer to the state of independence in politics and law, to individuals who act without external control, or to organizations that claim or symbolize autonomy. The term comes from Latin independentem, formed by in- meaning not, and dependere, meaning to hang from.

In politics and history, independent movements seek self-government or liberation from a colonial power or ruling entity. In modern usage, the term names political parties, movements, and administrative statuses that favor sovereignty or self-rule.

In sports, several clubs and teams use Independiente in their official names. The most prominent is Club Atlético Independiente, an Argentine football club from Avellaneda, founded in 1905. Known as El Rojo (the Red) and the King of Cups for its record seven Copa Libertadores titles, with additional domestic championships. The club plays at the Estadio Libertadores de América and has a long-standing rivalry with Racing Club. Other clubs with Independiente in their name include Independiente Medellín in Colombia and Independiente del Valle in Ecuador; Independiente Santa Fe is the football club of Bogotá commonly named Independiente Santa Fe.

Beyond sports, various newspapers, clubs, and cultural institutions use Independiente to convey a stance of autonomy or neutrality.

Overall, independents share a common reference to autonomy, self-determination, or separation from established authorities, whether in language, politics, or sport.