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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)

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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.

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