Spain: The 'Great Power', 1556–1598 (A-level only) common mistakes

Common mistakes

• Overgeneralizing Philip II's ambitions

  Students often state that Philip II only wanted to expand territory without acknowledging his religious motivations.

  Fix itRecognize that Philip II's ambitions included both territorial expansion and the promotion of Catholicism, which were intertwined.

• Overgeneralizing Spain's role in Italy

  Students often claim Spain had complete control over Italy without acknowledging the complexities of local politics.

  Fix itAcknowledge the nuances of Spanish influence and the resistance from local powers in Italy.

• Overgeneralizing Spain's Power

  Students often claim Spain was invincible during this period without acknowledging its military setbacks.

  Fix itAcknowledge both successes and failures to provide a balanced view of Spain's power.

• Confusing the causes of the Dutch Revolt

  Students often attribute the Dutch Revolt solely to religious factors without considering economic and political grievances.

  Fix itAcknowledge the interplay of religious, economic, and political factors that fueled the revolt, including taxation and local governance issues.

• Overgeneralizing Spanish motives

  Students often claim that all Spanish actions were solely for wealth without considering other factors like religion.

  Fix itAcknowledge that while wealth was a primary motive, the spread of Christianity and geopolitical competition also played significant roles.

• Confusing perception with reality

  Students often state that Spain was the dominant power without acknowledging the underlying issues.

  Fix itAlways support claims of power with evidence of military and economic realities.