Thomas, Hugh

This book discusses the history of Spain, the character of the people, the political traditions, the modern economic and social conditions. The Moors, King Ferdinand, Queen Isabella, Charles I, Philip II, General Franco, the poets, the painters, the nobles and the poor are also covered here.

In 1492 Columbia launched what became the most important series of events in history. He believed that China could be reached from Europe by sailing west. A quarter century later, Magellan, also sailing with a Spanish fleet, showed that could be true. Inspired by the hope of both riches and of converting native peoples to Christianity, the Spanish adventurers convinced themselves that an Earthly Paradise existed in the Caribbean and that the rivers flowed with gold. Hundreds set sail on the precarious journey across the Atlantic.