Why did Castile become Spain?

The dynastic union of Castile and Aragon in 1469, when Ferdinand II of Aragon wed Isabella I of Castile, would eventually lead to the formal creation of Spain as a single entity in 1516 when their grandson Charles V assumed both thrones.

Why did Ferdinand and Isabella get married?

Marriage to Isabella and unification of Spain He married the princess Isabella of Castile in Valladolid in October 1469. This was a marriage of political opportunism, not romance. The court of Aragon dreamed of a return to Castile, and Isabella needed help to gain succession to the throne.

Where was Castile and Aragon located?

Spain
When Ferdinand II (1479–1516; also known as Ferdinand V of Castile from 1474) succeeded to the Crown of Aragon in 1479, the union of Aragon (roughly eastern Spain) and Castile (roughly western Spain) was finally achieved, and the Trastámara became the second…

Why was the Union of Aragon and Castile so important?

Although the marital union between Isabella and Ferdinand was considered an equal arrangement, the kingdom of Aragon was already floundering by the time of its union with Castile. Aragon boasted many port cities, which provided the kingdom with a strong commercial empire.

When did Ferdinand II of Aragon marry Isabella I of Castile?

The marriage of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, in 1469 at the Palacio de los Vivero in Valladolid began the familial union of the two kingdoms. They became known as the Catholic Monarchs (los Reyes Católicos).

Who was the Catholic ruler of Aragon and Catalonia?

Aragon and Catalonia. Ferdinand and Isabella ruled jointly in both kingdoms and were known as the Catholic Monarchs (Reyes Católicos).

When was the Kingdom of Castile united with Leon?

Between 1072 and 1157 it was again united with León, and after 1230 this union became permanent. Throughout this period the Castilian kings made extensive conquests in southern Iberia at the expense of the Islamic principalities.