HST 319


	To the modern observer of Spain, numerous puzzles present themselves. Vibrant commercial progress exists alongside older traditions such as rural poverty, a vigorous Catholicism and the continuing popularity of the bullfight. Particularly striking are the contrasts between urban vigor and rural languor, between strong tradition and daring innovation, between wealth and poverty, between repressive morality and pervasive libertinism. Spain is a land that never fails to intrigue with its culture, and to strike awe by the stark beauty of its prominent mountains, seared countryside and beautiful shorelines.
The key to explaining the paradoxes of Spain is to study its history. The history of Spain is long and eventful. Few modern nations have had such a long or variegates history. The influences of its heritage are many: the strong Catholic tradition, the pastiche of Islam, its ere as the world's dominant power; all are evident. The influence of Spain on the world is also a reason to seek understanding of its past. Many modern nations were colonies of Spain, and many more were influenced by the reach of Spanish imperialism. Finally, let us recognize in contemporary Spain a vigorous and prosperous nation, one that provides a model for progress in many political, economic, cultural and social developments