The Spanish Monarchy in the 15th and 16th Centuries: An Overview

What Was Felipe II's Attitude Towards Religion?

Felipe II was a staunch defender of Catholicism against Islam and Protestantism. His rule was characterized by religious intolerance, with the suppression of Protestantism and the strengthening of the Inquisition.

What Was the Purpose of Authoritarian Monarchies?

Authoritarian monarchies aimed to impose their authority on their kingdoms and limit the powers of the nobility.

What Were the Final Additions to Felipe II's Empire in 1580?

In 1580, Felipe II claimed the throne of Portugal after the death of the Portuguese king.

Which King Inherited Vast Amounts of Territory and Faced Two Revolts?

Carlos V, later known as Carlos I, inherited vast territories. His reign saw two major revolts:

• The Revolt of the Comuneros (1520-1521)
• The Revolt of the Brotherhoods (1519-1523)

How Did European Monarchs Defend Their Interests Abroad?

European monarchs created diplomatic services to defend their interests in foreign lands.

In What Year Did Carlos I and V Abdicate?

Carlos I and V abdicated in 1556.

Which Five Countries Were Identified as Having Great European Monarchies?

The five countries identified as having great European monarchies were:

• France
• Spain
• Portugal
• England
• Russia

Explain Two Processes That Took Place Under Isabel and Fernando's Reign

Territorial Unification

In 1469, the Iberian Peninsula, previously divided into five kingdoms, saw the Crowns of Castile and Aragon united through the dynastic marriage of Isabel and Fernando. While both kingdoms united, they maintained their own institutions, resulting in a territorial union rather than a complete merger.

Reform of Institutions and Expansion

In 1492, Isabel and Fernando financed Christopher Columbus's expedition, leading to the acquisition of territories in America. Their reign also focused on religious unity and the reform of existing institutions.

What Part of the Iberian Peninsula Did Spain Not Own?

Spain did not own Portugal.

Who Were the Moriscos?

The Moriscos were Muslims who had converted to Christianity.

What Reason Encouraged Philip II to Establish the Capital City in Madrid?

Philip II established the royal court in Madrid and governed from there, effectively making it the capital city.

Explain Why Felipe II Became King of Portugal in 1581

Felipe II became King of Portugal in 1581 because he inherited the Portuguese throne through his lineage.

Why Did Carlos Inherit Territories Directly From His Grandparents?

Carlos inherited territories from both his maternal grandparents (Crowns of Castile and Aragon) and his paternal grandparents (title of Holy Roman Emperor and territories in Central Europe).

What Three Religions Were Practiced on the Iberian Peninsula in the 15th Century?

The three main religions practiced on the Iberian Peninsula in the 15th century were Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.