The Story of Spain

The Story of Spain is a very readable, one-volume introduction to this nation's fascinating history & culture, placed within a context of Europe & the Americas. The book is a popular history of Spain from prehistoric times to the present day, as well as the Spanish Empire (1492-1898). It includes description & analysis of political, social, economic & cultural events, which together shaped this distinctive country. The author brings to life all the dominant historical figures, including El Cid, Columbus, King Philip II, Cervantes, St. Theresa, Goya, Franco & Picasso. Chapters are included on ancient Iberia, the Roman era, medieval & Moorish Spain, the Reconquest, Spain's discovery & conquest of the Americas, its Golden Age & decline, the coming of the Bourbons, Napoleonic wars & the modern era leading up to the Spanish Civil War & Franco's dictatorship. After ten years in print, this revised edition features a new chapter covering contemporary Spain & the transition to democracy (1976-2000). For travelers to Spain, historic places to visit are listed, as well as 16 pages of color photos & dozens of other illustrations, a dynastic chart, bibliographic sources & index. Author Mark R. Williams received an M.A. in history from the University of California & lived in Spain for several years, where he worked as a teacher & journalist. Distributed through Golden Era Books, P.O. Box 5603, San Mateo, CA 94402. Website: www.GoldenEraBooks.com.