| 
During the 9th century the region of Madrid was
controlled by the arabs. A castle strategically positioned in
view of the main pass leading down from the mountains was an important
military outpost used to keep a keen eye for Christian invaders.
Christian forces made several unsuccessfully
attempts to overpower the muslims but it wasn't until 1086, that
Alfonso VI was able to capture Madrid. This region was constantly
besieged and under attack. Madrid was just another medieval village
until it started gaining popularity by the 14th century and eventually
became the seat of the Royal Court. This was a period of relative
political stability. The power of christians grew and the spanish
empire flourished. Madrid was declared capital of the Spanish
Empire in 1561. Madrid was again neglected during the rule of
Felipe IV losing much of its splendor in the 1700's. During the
reign of Felipe V Madrid flourished again. Many buildings were
built including bridges, hospitals and monuments.
In 1759, Carlos III came to power. He completely
remodeled Madrid and was later considered one of the best rulers
of Madrid. The 18th and 19th centuries were disastrous for Spain
and Madrid and they kept losing all the remaining colonies. Madrid
was thrown into a period of economic and political crisis. During
the dictatorship of General Primo de Rivera in the 1920's Ciudad
Universitaria was Constructed. In 1931 General Rivera stepped
down from power making way for democratic elections.
|
