The diary begins in 1466 when Padre Torquemada gives Isabela (King Enrique of Castile/Leon's sister) a blank book in which she could keep account of sins, especially the seven deadly sins. During her childhood years she has had to deal with battles for the crown between her half brother Enrique and her brother Alfonso. There is also doubt as to who should be the rightful heir as Enrique has a daughter Juana. At that time Spain was separated by regions and Kingdoms.
The story ends when she is betrothed to Ferdinand of Aragon but the historical notes continue the story. Once Isabel and Ferdinand marry and combine their countries to make a unified Spain, instead of bringing peace, more upheaval ensues. A devout Catholic, Isabel and her husband make it their task to rid Spain of Moors (Muslims) who live in the southern part and also give Jews the opportunity to be baptized within a four month period or otherwise be banished from Spain. The Spanish Inquisition was formed to make sure all Spaniards were Christians or tortured until they accepted the faith of Isabel and Ferdinand.
Their daughter, Katherine (of Aragon) married first Henry VIII's brother and then Henry VIII of England. Queen Isabel encouraged cultural changes and also sponsored Christopher Columbus's travels which brought Spain into the Golden Age.
If you like history, these are great books for an uncluttered glimpse into life of the time.
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