The Reconquista

Essential Question

What were the causes and effects of the Reconquista of Spain and Portugal?

The Reconquista

In Spain, the reign of the Muslim Moors brought a great deal of wealth and knowledge to Spain. Arguably, Spain was the most advanced region in all of Europe. However, the reign of the Muslim Moors collapsed in the 1000s. Christian kingdoms in Spain started a war to drive out the Muslims. They called their war the Reconquista or reconquest. The kingdom of Castile was the first to free itself of Muslim rule. Portugal and Aragon soon followed. Castile and Aragon became united by the marriage of two royals, King Ferdinand of Aragon and Queen Isabella of Castile. Their union created the modern countries of Spain and Portugal to remained independent.

Christians Fight the Moors.pdf

Discussion Questions

  • What was the Reconquista?

  • What was the purpose of the Spanish Inquisition?

  • How might Spanish history have been different if the Spanish had not defeated the Moors?

  • What persecution did the Jewish people in the Middle Ages endure in Spain and the rest of Europe?

Activity 1: What were the causes and effects of the Reconquista?

Using the information from this lesson, answer the questions in a thinking map. Complete this assignment digitally or on paper. It will be collected in your portfolio.

Extension Activities