Chapter 9:  Spain Looks Westward

What elements of a society's worldview might lead to a desire to create an empire?

• Geography

• Creating a Christian Spain

• Gold and Glory

Chapter 9 Textbook

Quick Writes for this chapter 

Respond to the following questions to help you build a constructive and reflectful response to the question:

What elements of a society's worldview might lead to a desire to create an empire?

Writing prompt:

Imagine you are a member of a society that is contemplating the idea of building an empire. Reflect on the elements of your society's worldview that might contribute to this desire.

Consider the following questions as you craft your response:

1. What are the core values and beliefs of your society? How do these values shape the way your society perceives itself and its place in the world?

2. How does your society view power, authority, and expansion? Are there cultural or historical factors that influence these perceptions?

3. What are the economic considerations that might drive your society to seek empire-building? How do trade, resources, and wealth factor into your society's ambitions?

4. How does your society perceive other cultures and civilizations? Are there notions of superiority or inferiority that influence interactions with neighboring societies?

5. What role do politics and leadership play in the decision to pursue empire-building? How might ambitions for glory, fame, or legacy influence rulers and decision-makers?

6. Are there external pressures or threats that contribute to your society's desire to create an empire? How do fears of conquest, domination, or competition shape your society's worldview?

In your writing, think about how cultural, economic, political, and historical factors can influence a society's desire to build an empire. Use examples to explain your points and show what your society believes. Also, think about the good and bad results of empire-building.