The Spanish Empire (Spanish: Imperio Español) comprised territories and colonies administered by the Spanish Crown in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and Oceania. It originated during the Age of Exploration and was one of the first global empires. Under the Spanish Habsburgs, Spain reached the peak of its political and economic power when its empire became the foremost global power. In conjunction with the Portuguese Empire, the Spanish Empire's establishment in the 15th century ushered in the modern global era and the rise of European dominance in global affairs. Spain's territorial reach beyond Europe spanned five centuries, from the first voyages to the Americas in 1492 until the loss of its last African colonies in 1975.
Read more about Spanish Empire: Definition, Origins, The Spanish Habsburgs: The Sun Never Sets (1516–1700), The Bourbon Spanish Empire: Reform and Recovery (1700–1808), Twilight of The Global Empire (1800–1899), Territories in Africa (1885–1975), Legacy
Famous quotes containing the words spanish and/or empire:
“As the Spanish proverb says, “He who would bring home the wealth of the Indies, must carry the wealth of the Indies with him.” So it is in travelling; a man must carry knowledge with him, if he would bring home knowledge.”
—Samuel Johnson (1709–1784)
“Ce corps qui s’appelait et qui s’appelle encore le saint empire romain n’était en aucune manière ni saint, ni romain, ni empire. This agglomeration which called itself and still calls itself the Holy Roman Empire was in no way holy, nor Roman, nor an empire.”
—Voltaire [François Marie Arouet] (1694–1778)