Washington and Lee University
The story of Spain over the past 500 years is remarkable for its epic diversity. By the 16th century, having finally driven the Moors from the Iberian Peninsula, Spain had established her own thriving empire abroad and become the most powerful nation on earth. What followed is a vivid chronicle on the rise and fall of kings, the lessons of imperialism, the movements of peoples, the power of the church, the anguish of civil war, the rise of democracy, and the birth of the New Europe.
Our program will trace the historical, cultural, and political legacy of this most fascinating nation, one that has for centuries served as the crossroads of Europe and Africa, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. We will begin with 1492, one of the critical dates of European history, and study how Spain, through the extraordinary co-regency of Ferdinand and Isabella, forged itself into a dominant world power. A careful look at Spain's impact 
on the New World will parallel our treatment of the rise and fall of the Spanish Empire before we examine the emergence of modern Spain and the important events that have determined its role as one of the leading nations in contemporary Europe.
Among our special topics will be the outstanding cultural manifestations of Spain's legacy: the literature of the Golden Age and the paintings of its great masters Velazquez and Goya. 
We will also examine the remarkable course of events in Spain during the 20th century: the Spanish Civil War, the reign of Franco, followed by the restoration of a constitutional monarchy, and Spain's key role in the creation of the European Union. The story ends happily, for today Spain is one of the brightest lights in the New Europe.
Teaching in the program will be Larry Boetsch and Florinda Ruiz from romance languages, Mark Rush and Wayne Thompson from politics, and George Bent from art history. Our program will also anticipate a visit to Spain (and Portugal) in the fall.
