The History of Spain (The Greenwood Histories of the Modern Nations)

About this book

Updated from the original 1999 publication The History of Spain examines Spains long and fascinating history from the earliest cave dwellers of Altamira to todays current political strife with Catalonia. This updated and expanded edition of The History of Spain offers an in-depth examination of Europes fifth largest economy providing important coverage on the last two decades of Spanish history in particular. Following a general introduction to Spain its government and the diversity of its people and geography this volume follows Spains unique history chronologically from the earliest archeological evidence. Starting with Spains incorporation into the Roman Empire subsequent chapters cover Spains medieval experience of Islam Christianity and Judaism; its unification; its "Golden Age" of world empire and cultural splendor; Napoleons invasion of Spain; and its troubled period that lasted for more than a century. The volume examines why in 1936 Spain exploded into civil war followed by three dozen years of dictatorship. It also gives extended treatment to Spains successful transition to democracy since 1975. Ideal for a general reader student or traveler The History of Spain provides a concise and lively introduction to Spain its people and traditions.