Fernando II de Aragón

Fernando II of Aragon, also known as Ferdinand the Catholic, was a pivotal figure in Spanish history, ruling jointly with his wife, Isabella I of Castile. Together, they completed the Reconquista with the conquest of Granada in 1492 and sponsored Christopher Columbus's voyages to the New World, which significantly expanded Spain's influence globally. Their reign marked the beginning of the Spanish Empire and was characterized by efforts to unify Spain and strengthen the monarchy, establishing the foundations for what would become a powerful nation. Fernando's policies also included the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition, reflecting the era's religious fervor and the pursuit of religious uniformity.