Watch The History of Spain: Land on a Crossroad

The History of Spain: Land on a Crossroad is an enlightening and engaging lecture series from The Great Courses Signature Collection that explores the fascinating story of Spain. Presented by Joyce E. Salisbury, who is a specialist in medieval Europe, the course aims to take viewers on a journey through Spain's past-from its prehistoric roots to its modern-day culture and society.

Salisbury begins by examining the country's earliest origins, delving into the mysteries of the Iberian Peninsula, which has long been a passage and melting pot for different cultures. She goes on to explain how the peninsula's location at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe has played a key role in shaping its history.

Viewers are taken through many of the key events that shaped Spain, including the Roman conquest, the Visigoth invasions, and the Islamic conquest in the 8th century. Salisbury spends a significant amount of time discussing the influence of the Moors on Spanish culture, which is an important element in the Spanish national identity.

The course also focuses on critical moments in Spanish history. This includes the golden age of the Spanish empire, when Spain was the wealthiest and most powerful country in the world, responsible for discovering the New World and bringing untold riches and glory to the motherland. The lecture series also takes a hard look at the horrors of the Spanish Inquisition, which was responsible for the persecution of thousands of Jews, Muslims, and other minority groups in Spain.

Throughout the course, Salisbury uses a wealth of primary sources, including art, architecture, and literature to bring Spain's story to life. She points out that Spain has been shaped by the people who lived on the Iberian Peninsula- Romans, Visigoths, Moors, Jews, and Spaniards- and the legacies they left behind.

One of the most engaging aspects of the course is Salisbury's discussion of Spanish art and architecture. She explains how Spanish religion, politics, and society shaped the country's distinct aesthetic, including the use of bold colors, intricate patterns, and sweeping arches. She analyzes some of the country's most famous works and explains the story behind each piece.

As the course draws to a close, Salisbury discusses Spain's modern history, including the Spanish Civil War, the dictatorship of Francisco Franco, and the transition to democracy. She continues her discussion of Spain's art and architecture, analyzing the works of famous Spanish artists and architects such as Gaudi.

Overall, The History of Spain: Land on a Crossroad is an excellent course that provides a comprehensive overview of Spain's history, politics, society, and culture. Salisbury is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic presenter, and her engaging lectures will keep viewers entertained and informed from start to finish. Anyone with an interest in Europe's rich, diverse history will enjoy this course, and it's a must-watch for anyone planning a trip to Spain.

The History of Spain: Land on a Crossroad is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between July 21, 2017 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection