The Story of Spain is a very readable one-volume introduction to this nations fascinating history & culture placed within a context of Europe & the Americas. The book is a popular history of Spain from prehistoric times to the present day as well as the Spanish Empire (1492-1898). It includes description & analysis of political social economic & cultural events which together shaped this distinctive country. The author brings to life all the dominant historical figures including El Cid Columbus King Philip II Cervantes St. Theresa Goya Franco & Picasso. Chapters are included on ancient Iberia the Roman era medieval & Moorish Spain the Reconquest Spains discovery & conquest of the Americas its Golden Age & decline the coming of the Bourbons Napoleonic wars & the modern era leading up to the Spanish Civil War & Francos dictatorship. After ten years in print this revised edition features a new chapter covering contemporary Spain & the transition to democracy (1976-2000). For travelers to Spain historic places to visit are listed as well as 16 pages of color photos & dozens of other illustrations a dynastic chart bibliographic sources & index. Author Mark R. Williams received an M.A. in history from the University of California & lived in Spain for several years where he worked as a teacher & journalist. Distributed through Golden Era Books P.O. Box 5603 San Mateo CA 94402. Website: www.GoldenEraBooks.com.