Spain’s 16th Century: Empire, Conflicts, and Culture
ITEM 7 – 16th Century Spain
The Empire of Charles V: Internal Conflicts
Charles I of Spain (Charles V of Germany) inherited the throne in 1516. Unfamiliar with Castilian, he brought Flemish advisors who occupied key positions. This sparked resentment, leading to the Revolt of the Comuneros in Castile. Causes included:
- Aristocratic discontent with Flemish influence
- Misuse of tax revenue
- Charles’s disregard for Castilian laws and language
- Concerns over the wool trade
The revolt, initially strong, was weakened by internal divisions and defeated at Villalar in 1521.
The Revolt of the Germanies in Valencia (1520) arose from economic hardship and social unrest. It evolved into a conflict between the nobility and commoners, ending in 1522.
Despite these challenges, Spain experienced economic prosperity due to American colonization and the influx of precious metals. However, costly wars eventually led to decline.
Charles V’s Foreign Policy
Charles V inherited a vast empire. Influenced by Erasmianism, he aimed for a universal Christian empire. He faced:
- Protestant Reformation: Attempted reconciliation but ultimately failed, leading to the Peace of Augsburg (1555).
- Ottoman Empire: Successfully defended Vienna and captured Tunis, but faced setbacks in Budapest.
- France: Constant conflicts due to French alliances with Protestants and Ottomans.
Weary of wars, Charles abdicated in 1556, leaving most of his empire to his son, Philip II.
The Hispanic Monarchy of Philip II: Iberian Unity
Philip II ruled over an extensive empire. He established Madrid as the capital and faced internal rebellions:
- Revolt of the Moriscos: Due to forced conversions and economic pressures.
- Aragon’s Rebellion: Sparked by the Antonio Perez affair, defending Aragonese privileges.
Philip II’s Foreign Policy
Philip II maintained his empire through strategic marriages. Key conflicts included:
- Ottoman Empire: Victory at Lepanto (1571) halted Ottoman expansion.
- Netherlands: A prolonged political and religious conflict resulted in the independence of the northern provinces.
- England: Deteriorating relations led to the defeat of the Spanish Armada.
Philip II achieved Iberian Unity by claiming the Portuguese throne after the death of King Sebastian I.
Political Model of the Habsburgs
The Habsburgs were divided into:
- Older Austrians: Charles I and Philip II, dedicated to direct governance.
- Younger Austrians: Philip III, Philip IV, and Charles II, who relied on advisors.
They strengthened the state with new agencies, a standing army, a diplomatic corps, and a strong financial system. Castile became the center of the empire.
Economy, Society, and Culture in 16th Century Spain
Agriculture remained central, with increased production due to land expansion. The Mesta controlled livestock grazing. Crafts expanded due to population growth and the American market. Trade flourished, especially with America, controlled by the House of Trade. However, wars and inflation strained the treasury.
Society was stratified, with the nobility and clergy holding privileges. The commoners faced poverty and taxation.
The Renaissance flourished, with figures like Luis Vives and Antonio de Nebrija. Architecture evolved from Gothic to Plateresque and Renaissance styles.
The Inquisition
Established in Spain by Ferdinand and Isabella, the Inquisition aimed to suppress heresy. It was headed by the Grand Inquisitor and had provincial courts with varying sentences.