HIS244H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Spanish Empire, Economic Stagnation, Counter-Reformation
Document Summary
Imperial spain was the dominant european power during the 16th century, and into the 17th century. Began to decline, however, and was replaced by france as the dominant hegemon. 16th century spanish foreign policy was hostile to france, recognizing the threat they posed to spain"s dominance. General strategy of spanish monarchs, especially philip ii, was to encircle france. Logistically, attacking england to bring it under spanish control would have flanked. France in the north - was already flanked by the spanish netherlands in the northeast. Spanish wealth, emboldened by precious metals from the americas, created a sentiment that spain would easily be able to take over france. Charles v inherited substantial domains from each of his four grandparents: During the dutch revolt, 1568 - 1648, (eighty years war) we see the imposition of a counter-reformation on a largely calvinist population. Duke of alba became known for brutalities committed - he transformed the discontent into a revolt, and committed atrocities.
