Modern Age: Economy, Society, and Spanish History (1492-1789)

Economy and Society in the Modern Age

The modern age began with the discovery of the American continent in 1492 and ended with the French Revolution in 1789.

Exploration and Discoveries

During the 15th and 16th centuries, many significant geographic discoveries took place.

Economic Transformation

During the modern age, agriculture was the main economic activity, but commerce was growing, and industrialization was starting.

• International commerce increased as more people began travelling to other countries around the world.
• European countries produced more coins, using gold and silver from America.
• The first banks accumulated money and charged interest for giving loans.
• The first modern factories appeared, featuring new machines and other technology.

Society Structure

During the modern age, society was divided into three main groups: the nobility, clergy, and commoners.

• Nobility: Included royalty and members of the upper class.
• Clergy: Included church officials.
• Commoners: Did not have any special privileges. This group included:
  • Burghers: Who lived in towns and cities (e.g., doctors).
  • Peasants: Who lived in the country, usually very poor.

Politics, Religion, and Science

Important changes occurred during the modern age:

• European monarchies became more powerful, dominating the nobility and unifying their kingdoms.
• There were religious conflicts and persecutions that killed hundreds of thousands of people.
• Social changes favored the birth of modern science and technology.

The Spanish Monarchy

In Spain, the modern age began with the reign of the Catholic Kings: Isabel I of Castilla and Fernando II of Aragón. The Catholic Kings:

• United their kingdoms to form one dynasty.
• Increased their power and created a modern state.
• Were intolerant toward other religions and persecuted Jews and Muslims.
• Conquered new territories such as Granada, the Canary Islands, and Melilla.
• Gave money to Columbus for the journey in which he discovered America.

Habsburg Spain

During the Habsburg dynasty, Spain became the center of an enormous, international empire. The empire included territories in Europe.

Art and Culture

The main artistic styles of the modern age were the Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles.

• The Renaissance Style: Typical in the 15th and 16th centuries. Inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art. Some of the most famous Renaissance artists are Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
• The Baroque Style: Typical in the 17th century and the first half of the 18th century. Used lots of curved lines, decoration, and dramatic effects. Some famous artists are Bernini, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Caravaggio.
• The Neoclassical Style: Typical of the second half of the 18th century. Especially important in architecture and the arts (Note: The original text incorrectly linked this style primarily to agriculture).