Early Modern Era

Spanish Monarchy

1492 AD – 1750 AD · peak 1600 AD

The Spanish Empire grew from Iberian dynastic union, the conquest of the Americas, and the global network opened after 1492. It ruled vast territories through viceroyalties in New Spain and Peru, linking American silver, Atlantic fleets, and Pacific trade through Manila. Its power declined through European wars, fiscal crises, and the American independence movements of the 19th century.

Capital: Madrid