Spain in the Age of Discovery, 1469–1598

By JJH2010
  • Period: 1469 to 1516

    The forging of a new state, 1469–1516

    Political, economic, social & religious condition of Iberian Peninsula in 1469
    Restoration of royal authority; royal govt; unity & confederation; relations with other European powers
    Social issues & policies: nobility, peasantry, urban communities & the Church
    Muslims/Moriscos; Reconquista; Jews/conversos & anti-Semitism
    Economic stagnation & change: trade & exploration-Europe & North Africa; discovery & first settlements The New World
    Degree of political unity & social & economic change by 1516
  • Period: 1516 to 1556

    The drive to 'Great Power' status

    • Charles' inheritance; opposition and consolidation; revolts of the Communeros and Germania
    • The workings of Empire: ideas and image; conciliar government; individuals and domestic policy
    • Foreign relations within Europe; campaigns against the Turks
    • Religious policies and the Church in Spain
    • The expansion of Empire: the conquistadores; economic and social impact of the New World on Spain
    • The political, economic, social and religious condition of Spain in 1556
  • Period: 1556 to

    The 'Golden Age'

    Philip2 as ruler: character; inheritance; change & continuity in government; administration & policy
    Opposition of individuals & groups: faction & curbing internal rebellions
    Religion & society; the Jesuits, Inquisition & relations with the Papacy
    Economic developments; royal finances, policies & impact of overseas empire
    Social & cultural developments of the ‘Golden Age’; impact of new ideas & intellectual movements
    Condition of Spain in 1598: political, economic & social strengths & weaknesses
  • Period: 1556 to

    Spain: The 'Great Power'

    Philip’s inheritance & ambitions; ideas and pressures; the Spanish army and navy
    Eclipsing of French power: Italy; war and interference in France
    Control of the Mediterranean: challenging the Turks; the conquest of and relationship with Portugal
    Revolt in the Netherlands; relations with England: conflict in Europe and the Caribbean
    Spain in the New World: expansion, settlement and trade; the impact of empire
    Spain’s international position by 1598: the extent of Spain's power; illusion or reality