Spain 13th Century Essay

When analysing Spain, this century is most notorious with the countries establishment as a superior nation. Yet it’s debate whether this truly occurred, as historians like JH Elliot have stated “Spanish society drove itself forward" others disagree, like Solsten , speculating that “The sixteenth century was a period of unremitting decline”. This 100-year time span presents a combination of both failures and successes, leaving us conflicted on whether this century was truly golden. Though the country saw a radicalisation in government, expansion of their empire and a promising religious reformation; the issues in the economy and the disastrous effects of foreign policy cause us to doubt how significant these successes truly were. Analysing further into the country’s expeditions and financial situation suggests why Spain may have been less golden then we have been led on to believe.

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Not only did they successfully change Spain’s position in Europe with their Treaty of Alcacovas in September 1479 which removed Spain from conflict, they also enabled great changes to be made in Spanish government. The appointment of government officials improved, as an elite administration system was formed in 1493 which ordered that every member must be of an educated background. Arguably the most beneficial aspect was the introduction of the Santa Hermandad in 1476, which was a peace brotherhood set up in Castile which rapidly improved Spain’s justice system. Improvements in the Cortes succeeded this, with 83 laws passed by 1505 and by 1515, 86 Castilian towns came under the influence of Ferdinand, a huge step in modernising the Spanish government. This factor could’ve been the trigger of Spain’s golden age as these successes continued into Charles I’s reign. This rule enabled advances in the ‘Council of War’ in 1522 which effectively advised