The document summarizes the rise and decline of Spain as a power during the 1500s-1600s. Key events include: 1) King Charles I/Emperor Charles V faced challenges ruling a vast empire and struggled to maintain religious control in Europe. 2) Spain experienced a golden age in the arts and literature during the 1500s under King Philip II. 3) However, Philip II's strict Catholicism led to a revolt in the Netherlands and war with England, culminating in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, beginning Spain's decline as a major power.

2. Preview Starting Points Map: Monarchs of Europe

3. Main Idea / Reading Focus

4. The King Becomes Emperor

5. Artistic Achievements

6. Spain under Philip II The Power of Spain

7. Click the icon to play Listen to History audio. Click the icon below to connect to the Interactive Maps.

8. Reading Focus What challenges did King Charles I face when he became Emperor Charles V?

9. What were some artistic achievements of Spain’s golden age?

10. How did Spain rise and then decline under Philip II? Main Idea Spain experienced a golden age during the 1500s, but economic problems and military struggles decreased Spanish power by the 1600s. The Power of Spain

11. The King Becomes Emperor Absolute monarchs believed they ruled by divine right

12. Monarchs received power from God, must not be challenged

13. 1500 through 1700s, absolute monarchs tried to impose their will across much of Europe, lands beyond

14. In Spain, Charles struggled to keep empire under control Imposing Their Will 1516, teenaged Charles became King Charles I of Spain

15. Inexperienced, but had one kingly trait—as member of ancient, powerful Hapsburg family, prepared to rule as absolute monarch

16. Absolute monarch, ruler whose power not limited by having to consult with nobles, common people or their representatives Kingly Trait

17. When Charles became king of Spain, he inherited the Low Countries of Belgium and the Netherlands, along with colonies in the Americas. Charles V and the Empire 1519, throne of Holy Roman Empire became vacant

18. Position elective; Charles borrowed money to buy votes

19. Became Holy Roman Emperor Charles V Holdings expanded to parts of Italy, Austria, various German states