Modern Spain has developed from a complex history, a diverse population, and continual contact with outside influences. This updated and revised volume moves from prehistoric times to the present, incorporating recent scholarship and focusing on politics, society, economy, culture, and personalities. Written in an engaging style, it introduces key themes that have shaped Spanish history. These include its varied landscapes and climate zones; the impact of waves of human migrations; and Spain's importance as a bridge between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, between Europe and Africa, and between Europe and Latin America. Another key theme is religion, particularly militant Catholic Christianity, its centuries of conflict with Islam and Protestantism, and debates over the place of religion in modern Spanish life. Illustrations, maps, and a guide to further information about major cultural figures, books to read, and places of interest make the history of this fascinating country come alive.