The Other 1492: Ferdinand, Isabella, and the Making of an Empire

By: Teofilo F. Ruiz, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Teofilo F. Ruiz

Ask anyone about the significance of the year 1492, and you're almost certain to hear something about Christopher Columbus and the discovery of the New World. But there is also a perspective on 1492 far different than the one most of us know - one that is more complete and complex. A 1492 when there was no country called Spain and no language called Spanish. A 1492 whose biggest event - in the region that would eventually become Spain - was the surrender of the last Muslim stronghold, Granada, with the subsequent Edict of Expulsion that gave Jews three months to either convert to Christianity or leave the Kingdom of Castile and the Crown of Aragon.

This 12-lecture series uses the year 1492 to examine the events that made Spain a country and an empire. It examines the centuries of developments that led up to that pivotal year in Spanish history and the consequences that followed for both Spain and the New World, presenting Spanish history from the perspective of both the victors and the defeated: the Muslims, Jews, and New World natives for whom 1492 was not a time of wonder but of terror and despair.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2002 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2002 The Great Courses

Comprehensive, balanced, brilliant

This was the first lecture series I listened to and it captivated me. Professor Ruíz is brilliant in his execution, the depth and breadth of his knowledge is amazing and his recounting of this little known side of 1492 is comprehensive, nuanced and balanced. Very enjoyable!

Really informative

Professor Ruiz is a true expert and his lectures are very clear. He does have a Spanish accent, but you get used to it after a while and, of course, it's to be expected since this is about Spanish history. I wish it were not so short and that he had time to discuss in greater depth some important events that only get touched upon here, such as the Inquisition. But it's a great introduction and provides a good background for further research.

Excellent

Great intro/orientation, in depth progression but easy to follow. Many facts of interest not commonly known. Highly Recommended, enjoyable lecture.

Don't miss this course!

An honor from beginning to end. Professor Ruiz was fascinating. Everything you you have already learned in school he will enlighten you ! this a course you enjoy taking over and over again.
Frances v Payne

Slightly misleading name, great anyway

Definitely worth it, should one wish to know more about the intricacies of that allowed Columbus to sail.