World Famous Culture of Spain - Essay Example

Spain's cultural melting pot became much richer during the Middle Ages in part because of the large and influential Jewish population there. After the defeat of the Muslims and Jews during the Christian Re-conquest period in the four hundred years following 1000, Spain became more intolerant and very Catholic, although it still rewarded exploration and sought to extend its power through overseas colonies. It is important to remember that the person who discovered the new world was Christopher Columbus, a Spaniard being funded by the King and Queen of Spain.

Spain’s history in the 20th century was somewhat unhappy. There was a terrible civil war in the 1930s and for more than 30 years afterward, the fascist dictator Franco ruled, oppressing people and refusing to permit the economy to grow in the way that it could have. But by the end of the 20th century, Spain was free again and once again a cultural world leader. It is now a member of the EU and NATO and is a strong democracy.

The thing that stands out most about Spain over the last five hundred years is probably its artists. Perhaps more than any other country, Spanish artists had redefined the way we think about painting; but it can also be said they inspired and ushered in modernism. Artists like Velasquez, Goya, and Picasso were all far ahead of their time and all had untraditional views of the world they depicted in their work. They inspired thousands of other artists and taught the world to see through a very particular lens. They lived through tumultuous historical times and made sure to show the world these times without pulling any punches. That’s why they represent Spain’s greatest contribution.
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