Final stages of Muslim rule in Spain: Impact

Cultural Impact

With fall of Granada, the last Muslim kingdom, the cultural landscape of Spain shifted.
Under the Catholic Monarchs, “De-Reconquista” policies were implemented to “re-Christianise” Spain, systematically erasing traces of Muslim culture.
Spain saw a significant loss of diverse intellectual output from Al-Andalus, as this period was known for collaborative works in science, art, and philosophy among Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
Spanish language was significantly influenced, as hundreds of Arabic words were absorbed creating a unique blend.

The end of Muslim rule marked a decrease in societal tolerance. There were attempts to create a homogenous society by expelling Jews and using the Inquisition to suppress deviation from Catholic orthodoxy.
Under Christian rule, the status of religious minorities deteriorates. Muslims and Jews were given the choice of conversion, exile, or execution.
The displacement of Muslim and Jewish populations led to significant demographic changes, as well as social and economic upheaval.

The unification of Spain under Christian rule marked the foundation of modern Spain. This unification also enabled Spain to become a major world power.
The victory over the last Muslim kingdom, Granada, bolstered the power and prestige of the Catholic Monarchs, both domestically and internationally.
Political changes led to shift from open, relatively tolerant society of Al-Andalus to a much more authoritarian and centralized regime under the Catholic Monarchs.

The eradication of Muslim rule led to loss of economic prosperity. Trade and agriculture, which flourished under the Muslim rule, were severely affected.
The expulsion of Jews and Muslims, many of whom were skilled in trades and commerce, also had a negative impact on the economy.
Control over Spain’s resources shifted to the Catholic Monarchs, consolidating their power.