Spain occupies most of a peninsula that it shares with Portugal in southwestern Europe. Under Muslim control for nearly 800 years, Spain enjoyed the introduction of new farming techniques, magnificent palaces, mosques, gardens, and public baths. Christians conquered Spain in 1722. Spain became a powerful empire in the 16th and 17th centuries. Catholic monarchs sent conquistadors to conquer, convert, and extract riches from native population in the Americas. Spanish influence has been especially strong there. Today Spanish is the first language of more than 200 million people outside of Spain’s borders. Through primary sources, readers will get an in-depth look at the history, culture, traditions, foods, and lifestyles of the people of Spain. From this book, readers will come to know Spain and its people