Spain

Philip II of Spain believed that his right to rule was divinely ordained, viewing his kingship as a mandate from God. He saw himself as a defender of Catholicism and believed that his authority was supported by divine providence, which justified his actions and policies as the sovereign. This belief in divine right emphasized his role in promoting and protecting the Catholic faith across his empire.

The bay located 300 miles northeast of Madrid, Spain, is the Bay of Biscay. This body of water lies along the northern coast of Spain and southwestern France, and it is known for its rugged coastline and maritime activities. The Bay of Biscay is part of the Atlantic Ocean and is bordered by several important cities, including Bilbao and Santander in Spain.

Spanish family life often emphasizes close-knit relationships and frequent gatherings, with extended family playing a significant role in daily life. Meals are typically more communal and can extend for hours, reflecting a cultural value placed on togetherness. In contrast, English family life may prioritize more individualism, with a focus on nuclear families and a tendency for members to have more independent lifestyles. However, both cultures value family ties, with traditions and practices varying based on regional and personal preferences.

Granada is a city in southern Spain, located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the region of Andalusia. It is renowned for the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a stunning palace and fortress complex reflecting Moorish architecture. The city has a rich history influenced by both Islamic and Christian cultures, evident in its architecture and traditions. Additionally, Granada is famous for its vibrant flamenco music and dance, particularly in the Sacromonte neighborhood.

Yes, Mexican citizens require a visa to travel to Spain for short stays, such as tourism or business, typically for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. They need to apply for a Schengen visa before their trip. However, for longer stays or other purposes, a different type of visa may be necessary. Always check the latest requirements, as visa policies can change.

In November, the hottest part of Lanzarote is typically the southern region, particularly around Playa Blanca and the Timanfaya National Park. These areas benefit from warmer temperatures and less wind due to their geographical positioning. The coastal areas also enjoy mild weather, making them popular destinations during this time. Overall, visitors can expect pleasant temperatures averaging around 22-24°C (72-75°F).

Castile, Navarre, and Aragon were historical kingdoms in Spain that played significant roles in the country's medieval history. Castile emerged as a powerful kingdom in the 11th century, known for its military and administrative strength. Navarre, located in the north, had a unique cultural identity and a mix of Spanish and French influences. Aragon, to the east, became a significant maritime power and expanded its influence through a union with Catalonia, contributing to the formation of modern Spain.

Americans supported Cuban independence from Spain due to a combination of sympathy for Cuba's struggle and a desire to expand U.S. influence in the Caribbean. The harsh Spanish repression of Cuban rebels generated outrage in the U.S., fueled by sensationalist journalism known as "yellow journalism." The situation escalated when the USS Maine exploded in Havana Harbor in 1898, leading to public outrage and calls for war, prompting the U.S. to intervene militarily in the conflict, ultimately resulting in Cuba's independence.

The U.S. and Spain had a conflict over the two Spanish colonies of Cuba and the Philippines. This conflict escalated into the Spanish-American War in 1898, driven by American interests in Cuban independence and broader imperial ambitions. The war resulted in Spain's defeat and the cession of both colonies to the United States, marking a significant expansion of U.S. influence in the Caribbean and Pacific regions.

In Spain's colonies in the Americas, government was characterized by a centralized authority under the Spanish crown, with viceroys and local officials enforcing royal policies. The Catholic Church played a crucial role in both governance and everyday life, as it sought to convert Indigenous peoples and administer social services. Economically, the colonies operated under a mercantilist system, exploiting resources like silver and sugar, with strict trade regulations favoring Spain. Encomienda and later hacienda systems were used for labor, relying heavily on Indigenous and African slave labor.

Benidorm is located on the eastern coast of Spain in the Valencian Community. Nearby countries include France to the northeast and Portugal to the west. Additionally, the Mediterranean Sea lies to the east, providing access to other Mediterranean countries. However, the closest neighboring countries are primarily France and, to a lesser extent, Morocco across the sea.

"A Fistful of Dollars," directed by Sergio Leone, was primarily filmed in Almería, Spain. The region's desert landscapes provided an ideal backdrop for the film's iconic Spaghetti Western aesthetic. Key locations included the Tabernas Desert, which is known for its resemblance to the American West.

A key factor that aided the spread of fascism in Spain during its Civil War was the support from fascist regimes in Italy and Germany. These countries provided military aid, including troops and equipment, to General Francisco Franco's Nationalist forces, which bolstered their position against the Republicans. Additionally, the fear of communism and social upheaval among conservative and nationalist segments of Spanish society helped to galvanize support for fascist ideologies, allowing them to gain traction during the conflict.

The symbol in the middle of the Spain flag is the national coat of arms, which features elements representing various historical kingdoms that make up Spain. It includes the Pillars of Hercules, the crown of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, and the emblems of Castile, León, Aragon, and Navarre. This coat of arms symbolizes the unity and heritage of the Spanish nation, reflecting its history and cultural diversity.

Miguel Ángel Asturias, the Guatemalan writer and Nobel laureate, spent much of his life in exile due to political repression and persecution in Guatemala. His outspoken criticism of oppressive regimes, particularly the dictatorship of Jorge Ubico and later governments, led to threats against his safety. In 1944, after the overthrow of Ubico and during subsequent political turmoil, he left Guatemala and lived in various countries, including France and Argentina, where he continued his literary and political activism. Asturias's experiences in exile profoundly influenced his writing, which often addressed themes of social justice and human rights.

In Spain, the harvest season varies by crop and region, but it generally takes place between late summer and early fall. For example, grape harvest for wine production typically occurs from late August to October, while olive harvesting usually takes place from November to January. Other crops, like fruits and vegetables, may have different harvest times throughout the growing season. Overall, the timing can be influenced by local climate and specific agricultural practices.

Dexedrine, which contains dextroamphetamine, is classified as a controlled substance in many countries, including Spain. It is typically prescribed for conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy, and acquiring it without a prescription is illegal. If you need this medication, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional in Spain who can provide guidance based on your specific medical needs.

The king of Spain made New Mexico a royal colony to strengthen direct control over the region, ensuring greater oversight of its governance, resources, and defense against foreign encroachments. This decision aimed to enhance the effectiveness of Spanish colonial administration and to promote the spread of Christianity among the Native American populations. By establishing New Mexico as a royal colony, the Spanish crown sought to solidify its territorial claims and improve economic exploitation of the area, particularly in terms of trade and resource extraction.

Yes, the Queen of Spain, Isabella I, along with her husband King Ferdinand II, financed Christopher Columbus's expedition in 1492. They provided him with three ships: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María. This support was part of their broader goal to expand Spanish influence and find new trade routes. Columbus's voyage ultimately led to the European discovery of the Americas.

The United States did not acquire several locations directly as a result of its victory over Spain in the Spanish-American War. Notably, territories like Hawaii and Alaska were not part of the treaty outcomes; Hawaii was annexed in 1898 prior to the war, and Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867. Additionally, the U.S. did not acquire any territories in Europe or South America as a result of this conflict.

The line over the "n" in "España" is called a tilde. It indicates a specific pronunciation, transforming the "n" into a palatal nasal sound, which is pronounced like the "ny" in "canyon." The tilde is an important diacritical mark in Spanish, as it distinguishes the meaning of words and affects their pronunciation.

Spain aimed to expand its empire, acquire wealth through resources like gold and silver, and spread Christianity among Indigenous populations. Similar to France, Spain sought to establish trade routes, secure territorial claims, and enhance its geopolitical influence in the New World. Both nations were driven by the desire for economic gain and the competition for dominance in the Americas. Additionally, Spain and France aimed to convert Indigenous peoples to Christianity, viewing it as a moral obligation of their colonial endeavors.

Spanish explorers established the first towns of New Spain primarily in present-day Mexico. The most notable early settlement was Mexico City, built on the ruins of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán, in 1521. Other significant towns included Veracruz and Puebla, which served as important centers for trade, administration, and the spread of Spanish culture and religion. These towns laid the foundation for further exploration and colonization throughout the Americas.

The 1975 treaty between the United States and Spain, known as the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, primarily aimed to normalize diplomatic relations following the end of Franco's regime. America gained strategic military access to Spanish bases, which was crucial during the Cold War for operations in Europe and North Africa. Additionally, the treaty facilitated economic cooperation and trade relations, contributing to the modernization of Spain and bolstering U.S. influence in the region. Overall, it marked a significant step in post-war U.S.-European relations.

Spanish cuisine in America often features ingredients like garlic, olive oil, saffron, and a variety of spices, reflecting its Mediterranean roots. Common staples include tomatoes, peppers, and chickpeas, which are used in dishes like paella and tapas. Additionally, cured meats such as chorizo and jamón are popular, alongside seafood, particularly in coastal regions. The fusion of local ingredients has also led to unique adaptations in Spanish dishes across different American cultures.