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The drive to 'Great Power' status, 1516–1556

the establishment of a 'New Monarchy', 1469–1556: The drive to 'Great Power' status, 1516–1556

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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What you need to know

6 objective pages available

The drive to 'Great Power' status, 1516–15566 objectives
  • Charles' inheritance; opposition and consolidation; revolts of the Communeros and Germania.
  • The workings of Empire: ideas and image; conciliar government; individuals and domestic policy.
  • Foreign relations within Europe; campaigns against the Turks.
  • Religious policies and the Church in Spain.
  • The expansion of Empire: the conquistadores; economic and social impact of the New World on Spain.
  • The political, economic, social and religious condition of Spain in 1556.

Key terms

ComunerosGermaniaConciliar GovernmentSpanish InquisitionHabsburg-Valois WarsOttoman EmpireHeresyCatholic ReformationImperialismMercantilismHabsburg Dynasty

Exam tips

  • Use specific examples in your answers: When discussing revolts or policies, always back up your points with specific events or figures from the period.
  • Use specific examples: When answering questions about Spain's rise to power, include specific events or policies, such as the conquest of the Aztecs or the role of the Inquisition.

Common mistakes

  • Overgeneralizing the causes of the revolts: Ensure to include both economic and political factors when discussing the causes of the Comuneros and Germania revolts.
  • Confusing the roles of different councils: Clarify the specific roles of councils like the Council of Castile and the Council of the Indies, emphasizing their distinct functions in governance.

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