THe Spain of FErdinand and Isabella

A. Mariejol, Jean Hippolyte. The Spain of Ferdinand and Isabella. Rutgers University Press: New Jersey, 1961. 337 pages. B. Until the 15th century, Spain was only a distant participant in the general movement of European affairs. The different kingdoms sharing the Spanish peninsula were individually too weak to pursue an energetic foreign policy. The marriage of royal cousins, Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castille, in 1469 brought stability to both kingdoms. Both understood the importance of unity; …

…State under the rule of the Catholic Monarchs is very significant. Isabella was especially passoinate in her piety, always displayed the concern for the clergy, and the greatest veneration for the Holy See. However, she would never abandon the crown's rights and privileges in deference to the Catholic Church. They were given the title of "Catholic Monarchs" because they surrounded themselves with priests and monks and employed great zeal in reforming the Church. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography**