The term Catholic Monarchs refers to Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon, who married in 1469, uniting the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon into what would become modern-day Spain. Their reign marked a significant period in Spanish history due to several key events and policies:
Isabella and Ferdinand's marriage was a strategic alliance that laid the foundation for the eventual unification of Spain. Their combined rule brought together the two largest Spanish kingdoms, Castile and Aragon, under a single monarchy, although each kingdom retained its own laws, institutions, and territories.
One of the most notable achievements of the Catholic Monarchs was the completion of the Reconquista, the reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule. In 1492, they oversaw the fall of Granada, the last Muslim emirate in Spain, which was a pivotal moment in Spanish history.
In 1492, the Catholic Monarchs issued the Alhambra Decree, which ordered the expulsion of Jews from Spain unless they converted to Christianity. This event was part of a broader effort to establish religious uniformity in Spain. Later, in 1502, Muslims were also forced to convert or leave, although many practiced their religion in secret, becoming known as Moriscos.
Isabella and Ferdinand supported Christopher Columbus's voyages, which led to the discovery of the New World. This support was instrumental in beginning the era of European colonization and exploration.
They also established the Spanish Inquisition in 1478 to maintain Catholic orthodoxy in their kingdoms, targeting mainly conversos (Jews who had converted to Christianity) suspected of secretly practicing Judaism.
The Catholic Monarchs were adept at diplomacy, forming alliances and marriages with other European royals to secure their position. They also engaged in several military campaigns, expanding their influence both within the Iberian Peninsula and abroad, particularly in Italy during the Italian Wars.
The reign of the Catholic Monarchs left a lasting legacy on Spain, shaping its national identity, religious landscape, and international standing. Their policies, while controversial, laid the groundwork for Spain's Golden Age in the 16th and 17th centuries.