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Definition |
Spain is a state in Western Europe. It became a unified kingdom under Habsburg rule in 1513. After a period of intense colonial aggression and expansion, as well as a very strong inter-European position during the 16th and early 17th centuries, Spain's economic position weakened somewhat during the rest of the 17th century. However, the country remained a powerful force. The beginning of the 18th century saw the War of the Spanish Succession and with it the transfer of the Spanish crown to the Anjou branch of the House of Bourbon. During the 18th century, the policies adopted by the various monarchs have been characterised as "enlightened despotism".en |