Economic stagnation and change: trade and exploration in Europe, North Africa and New World
Spain's economy grew unevenly under Ferdinand and Isabella. New trade routes and overseas exploration brought wealth, but deep structural problems kept most of Spain poor.
Real World
Columbus's 1492 voyage, funded by Isabella, opened the Atlantic trade system — comparable to how state-backed ventures like the British East India Company later transformed European economies through monopoly overseas commerce.
Exam Focus
Avoid overstating New World wealth under Ferdinand and Isabella; significant silver imports only accelerated under Charles I — precision here earns marks.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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