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Uh huh. From the AI. What does "wealth" mean to you?

Spain's rise to power in the 15th and 16th centuries stemmed from a combination of factors, including the completion of the Reconquista, a strong military, strategic marriages, the discovery and colonization of the Americas, and the influx of wealth from the New World.

Here's a more detailed look:

Reconquista and a Strong Military:

The Reconquista, the centuries-long Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule, ended in 1492 with the fall of Granada, unifying the Christian kingdoms of Castile and Aragon and creating a strong, well-trained military.

Strategic Marriages:

The marriage of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile, and subsequent dynastic alliances, expanded Spanish influence and control over a large portion of Europe, including territories in Italy, the Netherlands, and parts of the Holy Roman Empire.

Discovery and Colonization of the Americas:

Christopher Columbus's voyages in 1492, and subsequent expeditions, led to the discovery and colonization of the Americas, bringing vast territories and resources under Spanish control.

The Spanish Empire:

The Spanish Empire encompassed vast portions of the Americas, including Mexico, Peru, and parts of Central and South America, as well as territories in Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Wealth from the New World:

The influx of gold and silver from the Americas, particularly from mines in Mexico and Peru, fueled Spain's economy and military power, allowing them to finance wars and expand their empire.

Military Dominance:

Spain had a powerful navy and a well-trained army, which allowed them to maintain control over their vast territories and expand their influence through military conquest.

Cultural and Intellectual Influence:

Spain was also a center of cultural and intellectual achievement during the 1500s, particularly in the fields of art, literature, and exploration.
In summary, Spain's rise to power was a result of a combination of military strength, strategic alliances, the discovery and colonization of the Americas, and the influx of wealth from the New World, leading to the creation of a vast and powerful empire.

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Probably fair to say Spain was the hegemonic pretender until 1580 though. That year they invaded Portugal, the true hegemon.

And obviously getting rid of Jews helped in a sense as they were aligned with the Muslims. Becoming a unitary state by expelling these hostile actors paved the way for Spanish power much in the way Richelieu's taming of Huguenots led to French dominance in the next century.

But to hear you tell it just kill ze jo0z. It's a nigger position. Kill all the white people and we be free!