Spain's Golden Age, also known as the Siglo de Oro, was a period of flourishing arts, literature, and culture in Spain that lasted from the late 15th century to the late 17th century. Some of the key characteristics of Spain's Golden Age include:
1. Exploration and colonization: During the Golden Age, Spain was a powerful empire with vast territories in the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Spanish explorers such as Christopher Columbus, Hernan Cortes, and Francisco Pizarro undertook voyages of discovery and conquest, bringing wealth and prestige to the Spanish crown.
2. Cultural flourishing: The Golden Age saw a flourishing of arts and literature in Spain, with great writers such as Miguel de Cervantes, Lope de Vega, and Calderon de la Barca producing some of the greatest works in Spanish literature. The period also saw the rise of Spanish painting, with artists such as El Greco, Diego Velazquez, and Francisco de Zurbaran producing masterpieces that are still admired today.
3. Religious and political conflicts: The Golden Age was a time of religious and political conflicts in Spain, with the Inquisition playing a prominent role in enforcing religious orthodoxy and suppressing dissent. The period also saw the rise of powerful noble families and court intrigue, as well as conflicts with other European powers such as France and England.
4. Economic prosperity: Spain's vast colonial empire brought great wealth to the country during the Golden Age, with silver and gold from the Americas flowing into Spanish coffers. This wealth financed the construction of grand palaces, churches, and public buildings, as well as the patronage of the arts and sciences.
Overall, Spain's Golden Age was a time of great cultural, artistic, and economic achievement, but it was also marked by conflicts and tensions that would eventually lead to the decline of the Spanish Empire.
What characterized Spain's golden age?
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