How did Spain become one of the most powerful countries in the world in the 1600's?

Answer 1

Spain became rich by stealing gold and other valuables from natives in the New World whom they readily slaughtered, considering such people as sub-human. Thus, many folks in the Caribbean and South America consider Christopher Columbus - for example - anything but a hero. Slaves from Africa and North American Indians later were also placed on the bottom of the social ladder. And settlers were free to kill them with little, if any, penalty.

Wrong.

Spain was already a wealthy nation when America was discovered. After defeating the kingdom of Granada the Spanish Monarchy became the most powerful nation in Europe. It's army was well trained and proved unbeatable in the battlefields of Italy. Portugal and Spain had the most advanced navigation techniques of the time. The country exported wool and other goods to northern Europe and was already prosperous enough and had the skills to finance the conquest of its American empire. The previous answer reeks of hispanophobia.

Answer 2

Spain became one of the most powerful countries in Europe (during the age of exploration) when they succeded in taking over what is now Mexico, which they found to be plentiful with gold and silver, which soon made them rich, and bought them military supplies.

Answer 3

The Spanish economy was flourishing and trade was great. Spain also controlled the largest empire of any nation, meaning it had the greatest area of influence. However, its power was quickly declining due to its top competitor: England. England was aiding the Netherlands in their revolt against Spain (at this time it was under Spanish control and named the Spanish Netherlands) as they were fellow Protestants. Spain did not like this for three reasons: obviously because their territory was revolting against them, the English and Dutch were Protestants, and they now had some serious competition on their hands. It wasn't until the defeat of the Spanish Armada, which was a fleet of Spanish ships heading to England with the intent to overthrow Queen Elizabeth, that the Spanish lost their position as the richest and most powerful and were replaced by England.

Answer 4

Spain established colonees and built profitable settlements.They made great wealth from menes+platations.

Answer 5

Spain was able to obtain silver and gold from its conquered territories in Central and South America and the Philippines, including spices and silk from the latter.

Money is power!

Answer 6

By conquering the Aztec and the Inca and by forcing people to become part of their native

Answer 7

i think it was because of the Spanish Inquisition and their very good trading skills