Spanish Monarchy: Integration and State Organization
Integration of the Canary Islands and Approach to Portugal
In the early 15th century, the Crown of Castile asserted sovereignty over the Canary Islands. The Spanish Civil War spurred Andalusian nobles’ expeditions to the Gulf of Guinea, alerting Portugal. However, Portugal relinquished expansion in West Africa, except for the islands. Isabel and Fernando organized the occupation, confirming specific domains and conquering La Palma, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife between 1483 and 1496. The conquest used capitulations, contracts with captains and the Church for domain and evangelization. Larger islands were directly owned by the Crown, setting a precedent for colonization in America.
The Catholic Monarchs fostered ties with Portugal through marriage. Their eldest daughter, Isabel, married Alfonso, heir to the Portuguese throne. After his death, Manuel I married Maria, their fourth daughter.
Conflicts were resolved through treaties:
- Treaty of Alcaçovas (1479): Portugal recognized Isabel’s reign and Castilian rights to the Canaries and African coast.
- Inter Caetera (1493): Papal bulls granted Spain rights over discovered lands 100 leagues west of the Azores and Cape Verde.
- Treaty of Tordesillas (1494): Moved the dividing line 370 leagues west of Cape Verde to appease Portugal.
State Organization: Institutions of the Catholic Monarchs
The reign of the Catholic Monarchs marked an authoritarian monarchy. While retaining medieval traits, it laid the foundation for a modern state.
Each kingdom had a Territorial Council and Specialized Councils (Inquisition, Orders, Holy Brotherhood). The Royal Council of Castile handled other matters. The military became a key state pillar.
To manage the expanding territory, viceroys and mayors were appointed. Viceroys governed in the Crown of Aragon, while mayors represented royal power in Castilian cities, limiting municipal liberties.
Law enforcement was maintained through the Holy Brotherhood, combating banditry and consolidating royal control.
The Royal Treasury was established, often using credit from individuals who paid annual rent. The Church’s affairs were increasingly influenced by the state. Cardinal Cisneros reformed the clergy. Religious uniformity was pursued, leading to the establishment of the Inquisition in 1478 to control subjects’ lives and thoughts. This aimed to pursue false converts, resulting in the expulsion of Jews in 1492, causing demographic and economic losses.
Initially tolerant of Muslims after Granada’s conquest, policies shifted towards intolerance and persecution under Cardinal Cisneros. Both Granadan and Castilian Muslims were forced to convert or face expulsion.