Topic study hub
Spain: The 'Great Power', 1556–1598 (A-level only)
Philip II's Spain, 1556–1598 (A-level only): Spain: The 'Great Power', 1556–1598 (A-level only)
6
Objectives
10
Flashcards
10
Questions
90 min
Study time
AqaA LevelHistory1B Spain in the Age of Discovery, 1469–1598 (A-level only)
Choose a revision tool
Start revising Spain: The 'Great Power', 1556–1598 (A-level only)
Syllabus checklist
What you need to know
6 objective pages available
Spain: The 'Great Power', 1556–1598 (A-level only)6 objectives
- Philip’s inheritance and ambitions; ideas and pressures; the Spanish army and navy.
- The eclipsing of French power: Italy; war and interference in France.
- Control of the Mediterranean: challenging the Turks; the conquest of and relationship with Portugal.
- Revolt in the Netherlands; relations with England: conflict in Europe and the Caribbean.
- Spain in the New World: expansion, settlement and trade; the impact of empire.
- Spain’s international position by 1598: the extent of Spain's power; illusion or reality.
Key terms
Habsburg EmpireInquisitionHabsburg DynastyCatholic LeagueMediterranean DominanceHabsburg MonarchyEighty Years' WarSpanish ArmadaMercantilismViceroyalty
Exam tips
- Use specific examples in your answers: When discussing Philip II's policies, always include specific events or military campaigns to support your arguments.
- Use specific examples: When discussing Spain's role as a great power, always include specific events or treaties to support your arguments.
Common mistakes
- Overgeneralizing Philip II's ambitions: Recognize that Philip II's ambitions included both territorial expansion and the promotion of Catholicism, which were intertwined.
- Overgeneralizing Spain's role in Italy: Acknowledge the nuances of Spanish influence and the resistance from local powers in Italy.
Practice preview
Continue by objective
Objectives are grouped by subtopic so students can jump straight to the exact skill they want to revise.
Related topics
