AQA A Level History Breadth Study: Spain in the Age of Discovery, 1469-1598 (A-level only) June 2025 question paper 7042/1B

Using your understanding of the historical context, assess how convincing the arguments in these three extracts are in relation to Spain’s economy during the reigns of Isabella and Ferdinand in the years 1474 to 1516.

‘Spanish actions in the New World were influenced more by religious motives than desire for economic gain during the reign of King Charles.’

Assess the validity of this view.

To what extent did opposition within Spain weaken Philip II’s royal authority in the years 1556 to 1598?

How successfully did Spain manage its relations with England in the years 1556 to 1598?