Answer:
Isabella and Ferdinand had used the Inquisition to investigate suspected heretics, or
nonbelievers in Christianity.
Philip believed it was his duty to defend Catholicism against the Muslims of the
Ottoman Empire and the Protestants of Europe. In 1571, the pope called on all
Catholic princes to take up arms against the mounting power of the Ottoman Empire.
Philip responded like a true crusader. More than 200 Spanish and Venetian ships
defeated a large Ottoman fleet in a fierce battle near Lepanto. In 1588, Philip
launched the Spanish Armada in an attempt to punish Protestant England and its
queen, Elizabeth I. Elizabeth had supported Protestant subjects who had rebelled
against Philip. However, his fleet was defeated. (See map opposite.)
Although this setback seriously weakened Spain, its wealth gave it the appearance of strength for a while longer. Philip’s gray granite palace, the Escorial, had
massive walls and huge gates that demonstrated his power. The Escorial also
reflected Philip’s faith. Within its walls stood a monastery as well as a palace.
Explanation:
