Why did the Iberian Union happen?

Background. The unification of the peninsula had long been a goal of the region’s monarchs with the intent of restoring the Visigothic monarchy. There were many attempts to unite the different kingdoms after Alfonso VII’s death in 1109, especially through a policy of intermarriage.

Why did the Spanish decide to explore Asia in the 16th century?

Inspired by tales of rivers of gold and timid, malleable natives, later Spanish explorers were relentless in their quest for land and gold. Hernán Cortés hoped to gain hereditary privilege for his family, tribute payments and labor from natives, and an annual pension for his service to the crown.

How was Portugal conquered by Spain?

Portugal was conquered by Spain. It happened in 1580, with the Habsburg king of Spains (yes, plural, there were several Spanish kingdoms) became king of Portugal after the previous king had beeen killed in battle in North Africa. Portugal was a junior partner to the Spanish kingdom of Castille from 1580 to 1640.

What is the history of the Iberians?

In pre-historic times parts of the Iberian Peninsula (modern Spain and Portugal) were occupied by Stone Age inhabitants whose legacies to posterity are remarkable cave paintings of animals. The most notable surviving example of their art is in the cave paintings of Altamira (west of Santander in northern Spain).

How did Spain gain control of the whole of Europe?

With the discovery of Las Indias and the acquisition of vast new lands, Spain embarked on its transatlantic imperial adventures. With the accession of the Hapsburg Charles (Carlos) to the Spanish throne, Spain suddenly acquired large swathes of land in central and northern Europe (Austria, the Netherlands, Burgundy and chunks of Germany).

How long did Latin reign supreme on the Iberian Peninsula?

Thus, for the next 600 years, Latin continued to reign supreme on the Iberian Peninsula, as it did in most of the other areas of the Roman Empire. Latin, however, was itself changing.