In what ways did the Reconquista change Spain politically?

The Reconquista significantly transformed Spain politically by unifying the country under Catholic monarchs and establishing a centralised monarchy.

The Reconquista, a period of approximately 800 years from the 8th to the 15th century, was a pivotal era in Spain's history. It was marked by the Christian kingdoms' efforts to recapture the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule. This long struggle culminated in the fall of Granada in 1492, marking the end of Muslim rule in Spain and the beginning of a unified Spanish kingdom under the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella.

One of the most significant political changes brought about by the Reconquista was the unification of Spain. Prior to the Reconquista, the Iberian Peninsula was a patchwork of Christian and Muslim kingdoms. The Reconquista, however, saw the gradual consolidation of these kingdoms into a single entity under the rule of the Catholic Monarchs. This unification was not just a matter of territorial consolidation; it also involved the unification of laws, institutions, and even culture and language. The Reconquista thus laid the foundation for the modern Spanish state.

The Reconquista also led to the establishment of a centralised monarchy in Spain. The Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, were able to consolidate their power and establish a strong central government. This was a significant departure from the feudal system that had previously dominated in many parts of the Iberian Peninsula. The centralised monarchy was able to exert greater control over the territories of Spain, leading to a more unified and cohesive state.

Furthermore, the Reconquista had a profound impact on Spain's religious politics. The victory of the Christian kingdoms in the Reconquista led to the establishment of Catholicism as the dominant religion in Spain. This was reinforced by the expulsion of Jews and Muslims from Spain in the late 15th century. The Catholic Church became a powerful political force in Spain, influencing many aspects of Spanish politics and society.

In conclusion, the Reconquista was a transformative period in Spain's history. It led to the unification of Spain under a centralised monarchy and established Catholicism as the dominant religion. These changes had a profound impact on the political landscape of Spain, shaping the country's future development.