Spaniards

Map of the Spanish Diaspora in the World

The Lady of Elche, once polychrome stone bust discovered by chance in 1897 at L'Alcúdia, believed to be a piece of Iberian sculpture from the 4th century BC, National Archaeological Museum of Spain, Madrid (20098349590)

Cabeza masculina romana de Azaila (M.A.N. 32644) 02

Traianus Glyptothek Munich 336

Reinos Antiguo Régimen

Imperios Español y Portugués 1790

Spaniards are the national and ethnic group native to Spain, sharing a common Spanish culture, history, ancestry, and language. The term also refers to people of Spanish descent who reside in other countries, particularly in the Americas, where Spanish colonization had a significant impact.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of Spain is marked by waves of conquerors and settlers, including the Iberians, Celts, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Goths, and Moors. This blend of cultures has significantly influenced the modern Spanish identity, both culturally and genetically.

Following the Reconquista, the unification of the Kingdom of Castile and the Kingdom of Aragon in 1492, and the subsequent discovery of the Americas, Spain emerged as a leading global empire. This period saw the spread of Spanish language and culture across the world, especially in the Americas.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Spanish culture is a Western culture, heavily influenced by Roman and Gothic traditions, with a significant Moorish contribution, especially in the south. It encompasses a wide range of elements, from literature, art, and architecture to music and cuisine. Spain is known for its festivals, such as the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona and the Tomatina in Buñol.

Language[edit | edit source]

Spanish, a Romance language, is the primary language spoken by Spaniards. It is one of the most spoken languages in the world, thanks to Spain's historical colonial activities.

Religion[edit | edit source]

Roman Catholicism has been the dominant religion in Spain for centuries, shaping many of its traditions and holidays. However, modern Spain is a secular country, with freedom of religion guaranteed by the constitution.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Spain has a diverse population due to its history of invasions and migrations. The majority of Spaniards are of Iberian and Celtic ancestry, with a mix of other ancestries, including North African, due to the Moorish occupation.

Diaspora[edit | edit source]

The Spanish diaspora is significant, especially in the Americas and Europe. Many Spaniards emigrated to the Americas during the colonial and post-colonial periods, establishing large communities, particularly in Argentina, Mexico, and Cuba. Today, there is a notable Spanish presence in countries such as Venezuela, United States, and Brazil.

Notable Spaniards[edit | edit source]

Throughout history, Spain has produced notable figures in various fields. In the arts, figures such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí have gained international fame. In literature, Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote," is considered one of the greatest writers in the Spanish language. In science, Santiago Ramón y Cajal is known for his pioneering work in neuroscience.

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