Ferdinand II of Aragon's marriage to Isabella I of Castile unified Spain, concluding the Reconquista with Granada's fall in 1492. They established the Spanish Inquisition and sponsored Columbus's voyage, leading to the discovery of the Americas. Ferdinand's death in 1516 left a legacy that shaped European and world history, setting the stage for the Spanish Empire's golden age.
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Ferdinand II was born on March 10, 1452 and became the King of Aragon in 1479
Symbolic Union of Two Kingdoms
Ferdinand's marriage to Isabella effectively united the two largest kingdoms on the Iberian Peninsula, marking the beginning of the Spanish nation-state
Influence on Spanish History
The joint rule of Ferdinand and Isabella laid the groundwork for Spain's future as a powerful empire, setting policies that would shape the world for centuries
Ferdinand and Isabella's strategic marriage and joint rule aimed to achieve religious and political consolidation within Spain
Ferdinand II's reign saw the end of over seven centuries of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula with the conquest of Granada in 1492
Alhambra Decree
The Alhambra Decree, issued in 1492, ordered the expulsion of Jews and Muslims who refused to convert to Christianity, in an effort to ensure religious homogeneity within Spain
Establishment of the Spanish Inquisition
In 1478, Ferdinand and Isabella established the Spanish Inquisition as a means to enforce religious conformity and strengthen central authority
Ferdinand II's policies and actions, such as the establishment of the Inquisition, helped to strengthen central government and establish a strong monarchy in Spain
Ferdinand II's support for Christopher Columbus's 1492 expedition, funded by the Spanish Crown, led to the European discovery of the Americas
Columbus's voyages initiated a new era of exploration and colonization, establishing Spain as a preeminent colonial power and shaping the course of world history
Ferdinand II's last will and testament appointed his grandson, Charles, as his successor, furthering the Habsburg dynasty's influence across Europe and the New World
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Motto symbolizing Ferdinand and Isabella's joint rule
Tanto monta, monta tanto, Isabel como Fernando; signifies equal partnership in uniting Spain.
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Outcome of Ferdinand and Isabella's marriage for Spanish territories
United the kingdoms of Aragon and Castile, leading to the formation of the Spanish nation-state.
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Long-term impact of Ferdinand and Isabella's policies
Established Spain as a powerful empire, influencing global affairs for centuries.
