Ferdinand II of Aragon
King of Aragon, united Spain

Born
1452
573 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1516
509 years ago — 64 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Spain
Links & References
Ruled as King of Aragon from 1479 until death in 1516. Played a significant role in the unification of Spain through the marriage to Isabella I of Castile in 1469. This union laid the groundwork for the establishment of a unified Spanish monarchy. Sponsored Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage, which led to the discovery of the Americas. Engaged in the Reconquista, culminating in the conquest of Granada in 1492, ending Muslim rule in Spain. His reign marked the beginning of Spain's emergence as a global power, influencing exploration and colonization efforts.
Unified the crowns of Castile and Aragon
Sponsored Columbus's voyage to the Americas
Completed the Reconquista with the fall of Granada
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