Philip II's reign

Philip II of Spain reigned from 1556 to 1598, overseeing a vast empire that included territories in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. His rule is marked by efforts to strengthen Spanish Catholicism, leading to conflicts like the Spanish Armada's failed invasion of England in 1588. Philip's reign saw significant cultural achievements, including the Spanish Renaissance. However, it also faced economic challenges, including inflation and costly wars. Despite initial success, his policies and military failures contributed to the decline of Spanish power, marking the end of an era where Spain was a dominant force in Europe and beyond.