When was the peak of the Spanish Empire and who was in charge at its peak?

When was the peak of the Spanish Empire and who was in charge at its peak? The peak of the Spanish Empire is generally considered to be during the reign of King Philip II (1556–1598), in the second half of the 16th century. During his rule, Spain became the most powerful empire in the world, extending across Europe, the Americas, parts of Africa, and Asia.

Key aspects of Spain’s power under Philip II:

• Political and military dominance in Europe, marked by victories like the Battle of Lepanto (1571) against the Ottoman Empire. Control over vast colonial territories in the Americas, including the profitable colonies of Mexico and Peru, with access to immense wealth from silver mines.

• Spain also held territories in the Philippines, making it a global empire.
• However, the Spanish Empire’s decline began toward the end of Philip II’s reign, especially after the costly defeat of the Spanish

• Armada in 1588, which signaled the weakening of its naval power against England.

So, Spain’s imperial power reached its height under Philip II.