Imperial Spain in Decline

Paper Summary:

This paper reviews the book "Spain in Decline: 1621-1700," by Reginald Trevor Davies that outlines three factors for the decline of Imperial Spain: Economic and financial debilities, a military decline and a decline of patriotic and religious feelings. The paper describes the revolution in the Basque Provinces. The author states that this book of history reads like a novel.

From the Paper:

"These revolts helped in Spain's decline by weakening the government's position and creating unrest in the people, so they did not trust or follow government reforms meant to strengthen the country. Too many people wanted autonomy from Spain's government, and this division left the remainder of Spain weak and unprepared for further problems, inside or outside the country. Clearly, this was an important juncture for Spain; and had they handled it with more aplomb, they might have avoided some of the unrest and division that separated the country, and helped lead to its decline in world exploration and domination."

More papers on Imperial Spain in Decline:

• Essay # 40510 : "Imperial Expansion in Africa"
• Research Paper # 58087 : "The Role of the British Empire in the Two World Wars"
• Term Paper # 139585 : "British Colonies in the Caribbean"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: