Spain's Golden Age, which is generally considered to have spanned from the late 15th century to the early 17th century, was characterized primarily by significant government investment in the arts and culture. This period saw the flourishing of literature, painting, and architecture, largely supported by the patronage of the monarchy and the wealthy nobility.
Key features of Spain's Golden Age included:
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Art and Literature: The era produced renowned artists such as Diego Velázquez and Francisco Goya and notable writers like Miguel de Cervantes, whose works have had a lasting impact on literature and art.
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Cultural Flourishing: The period was marked by an explosion of cultural productivity, with advancements in drama, poetry, and visual arts, reflecting the influence of both Spanish culture and the broader European Renaissance.
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Political and Economic Context: While the Spanish monarchy was wealthy from its colonial enterprises, the period ultimately faced challenges such as military overreach, economic difficulties, and an eventual decline in power.
While there were some advancements in science and medicine during this period, and investments in education were encouraged, the defining characteristic of Spain's Golden Age remains its immense contributions to the arts and culture. Thus, the most appropriate answer to your question is government investment in the arts.