Spanish Empire. World Dominance of the Habsburg Dynasty. 1500—1700.

During the Habsburgs' reign, Spain became a prosperous and the most influential state in Europe, creating a well-organized system for managing vast overseas territories and bringing a rich original culture to the world. Professor John Elliot, in his study, traces the imperial period of Spain's history from its rise under Ferdinand and Isabella to the reign of Philip V and addresses the question of what awakened the mighty energy that gave rise to a new civilization in the New World and changed the balance of power in Europe.