|
Spain is one of the magnificent tourist destinations in Europe. It has many beautiful beaches, art galleries, museums, mountains and parks etc. It has a very interesting historical background too. History of Spain covers the period from pre-historic times to the modern era. It gives an idea about the culture and heritage of Spain.
History of Spain gives information about the ancient status and the stages of development of Spain. In olden days, people from different countries and cultures made their colonies all over the Peninsula. They were Iberians, Celts, Romans, Vandals, Alans, Moors and Visigoths. In 206 B.C. Scipio Africanus ruled Spain as a part of the Roman Empire. In 711, the Muslims under Tariq ruled Spain for few years. In 732, under the leadership of Charles Martel, triumphed over Muslims and took possession of Spain.
During this possession, the Christian kingdoms created the Kingdom of Castile and the Kingdom of Aragon. In 1469, the marriage of Queen Isabella I with King Ferdinand II led to the formation of the Kingdom of Spain by the union of these two kingdoms. In 1492, the arrival of Christopher Columbus promoted the development of the Spanish Empire. Within the next few years, Spain became a powerful European nation. During the next three hundred years, Spain’s majestic empire spread over South America, a major portion of North America, Philippines and some of the coastal Africa.
The historical background of Spain experienced an immense changeover especially in the 19th century. Most of the Spanish colonies became independent in the New World. In the beginning of the 20th century, the living standards in Spain were elevated. Although Spain didn’t take part in the World War I, it nevertheless had to face a big loss due to the civil war from 1936 to 1939. It was neutral in the Second World War too. Till 1975, Spain was under the control of Francisco Franco. After his death in 1975, there were remarkable changes in Spain. Juan Carlos was declared the King of Spain. There was a stable democracy in 1978. Spain joined NATO in 1982. It became a part of the European Economic Community in 1986. It took part in the 1992 Summer Olympics, for the first time. Jose Maria Aznar from the conservative Popular Party became prime minister in 1996. In 2002, Spain replaced its currency from peseta to euro.
History of Spain gives us an idea about the development of Spain. In the 21st century, Spain has become one of the highly developed nations in Europe. It is one of the main tourist destinations significantly displaying a glorious cultural, natural and architectural heritage. It includes various exciting destinations that attract tourists from all over the globe.
| 
