Question

which statement best describes the long - term significance of the completion of the reconquista?

• spain and portugal promoted religious freedom and allowed religious minorities to practice their faiths without restrictions.
• spain and portugal decentralized government administration to allow local rulers more control over their lands.
• spain and portugal became powerful kingdoms that contributed significantly to the european exploration of the world.
• spain and portugal invaded nearby european kingdoms to expand their territory and further increase the influence of islam.

Explanation:

The Reconquista was the period when Spain and Portugal reclaimed the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule. After its completion, these kingdoms became powerful, with resources and motivation to explore (like the Age of Exploration). Option 1 is wrong as they didn't promote religious freedom (they enforced Catholicism). Option 2 is wrong; they centralized, not decentralized. Option 4 is wrong as they aimed to reduce Islamic influence. So the correct option is the one stating they became powerful kingdoms contributing to European exploration.

Answer:

The option "Spain and Portugal became powerful kingdoms that contributed significantly to the European exploration of the world" (the third option in the list, depending on numbering; assuming the options are ordered as: 1. Spain and Portugal promoted...; 2. Spain and Portugal decentralized...; 3. Spain and Portugal became powerful...; 4. Spain and Portugal invaded... then the answer is the third option textually as described).