History of Spain

As a coastal country, Spain has had an interesting and complex history. Many of the existing landmarks and historical buildings found throughout Spain show the history of Roman invaders, Moors, Jewish and Christian settlements as well as the Celts.

The earliest artifacts found in Spain date back to at least 50,000 years B. C. These early settlements are found in the caves of Granada and the area around Cova Negra. It is believed the first settlers arrived from North Africa to inhabit this warm and fertile area. The Celts invaded this highly desirable area around 1200 b.c. The Greeks and Phoenicians moved into the southern Mediterranean areas of Spain around 1100 b.c. These settlements were then again invaded by the Carthaginians, who were in battle with the huge Roman armies. Although the Carthaginians did establish settlements in Spain, especially in the eastern areas, the Romans moved through the whole of the country, securing it as a Roman stronghold.

The Roman Empire controlled the Spanish peninsula until it began to decline in its influence in the early 400s. At this time, the Gothic tribes invaded the rich lands and actually established their own kingdom in the area now known as Spain. Muslims, also known as Moors, then invaded the area and took over from the Gothic tribes, controlling the coastal and central parts of Spain for almost 700 years.

In 1469 a royal wedding between King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella provided the unity to re-conquer the country from the invading armies and groups. This turned out to be one of Spain’s most bloodiest periods with thousands of Muslim and Jewish people killed if they refused to either convert to Christianity or leave the country then under control of the Queen and King. This royal family continued on with their rule, making Spain one of the world powers based on the rich amounts of silver and gold that were brought back from the New World by Christopher Columbus and other explorers.

In 1808 Napoleon invaded Spain and overturned the Spanish throne. After Napoleon was defeated in 1815 the throne was again given to Ferdinand VII, who later named his daughter as his heir. Internal struggles between Charles, Ferdinand’s brother, over the thrown continued for many years and decreased Spain’s influence as a world power.

1936-1939 were the years of unrest and civil war in Spain. From this war emerged a dictatorship led by General Franco who ruled the country until 1975. At this time a constitutional monarchy was set up with Juan Carlos de Borbon as king. In 1977 democratic elections were held and continue to be the method used to elect the prime minister of Spain today.