Describe the means by which Spain attempted to defend and spread Catholicism at home and abroad.
(4 points)
1. Inquisition: Spain established the Spanish Inquisition in the late 15th century to root out heresy and ensure the purity of Catholicism within its borders. The Inquisition used torture and other forms of coercion to force conversion or punish dissenters.
2. Colonial missions: Spain sent missionaries to its colonies in the Americas, Asia, and Africa to spread Catholicism and convert indigenous populations to the faith. Missionaries established schools, hospitals, and churches to help consolidate Catholic control over the colonies.
3. Reconquista: In the Middle Ages, Spain waged a centuries-long campaign known as the Reconquista to drive out Islamic rulers from the Iberian Peninsula and establish Catholic rule. This helped solidify Spain as a Christian nation and led to the expulsion of Jews and Muslims from the country.
4. Support for Catholic monarchs: Spain provided military and financial support to other Catholic monarchs and nations in Europe in order to defend and spread Catholicism in the face of Protestantism and other threats. This included involvement in the Thirty Years' War and other conflicts aimed at preserving Catholic dominance.