Book excerpt: An invaluable introductory textbook that provides students with a concise overview of the whole sweep of Spanish history, from its prehistoric origins right through to the present day. Simon Barton offers a clear and balanced account of the country's strikingly rich and diverse history. This is an ideal core text for dedicated modules on Spanish History and Iberian History, or a supplementary text for broader modules on European History, which may be offered at all levels of an undergraduate History, Spanish or European Studies degree. In addition it is a crucial resource for students who may be studying the history of Spain for the first time as part of a taught postgraduate degree in Spanish, European History, Spanish History or European Studies. New to this Edition: - Revised and updated throughout in light of the latest research - Provides coverage of recent events, such as the 2004 Madrid bombings, the general election of 2008 and the legalization of gay marriage - Includes additional maps and figures