Terrorism Hits Spain

Terrorist attacks rocked Madrid, Spain on March 11, 2004, just days before the nation's general elections took place.

The coordinated explosions hit the city hard, leaving about 200 dead and wounding hundreds more, making it the worst terrorist attack since World War II.

Officials believe those responsible have ties to al-Qaeda, and several suspects have been arrested. Some Spaniards believe their government's support of America's war in Iraq instigated the attacks.

Spain has endured many battles over its long history. And, as you'll discover in this week's lesson, the outcomes have shaped the identities of each particular region of this country, making Spain a culturally rich and vital nation.

A Map To Spain's Diversity

Let's begin with an overview of the country at the All About Spain website. Go to the Country and Culture section to find out some General Information.

Read the introduction then start your exploration here with the Spain in Data page. What languages do Spaniards speak, and why are there different ones? What form of government runs the country? What religion dominates the population? Which currency do they use?

Go next to the Geography page. How many mountain ranges run through the country? How might this, plus their many miles of coastline, influence the climate in these regions?

Move on to the History page, to learn about the development of civilization on the Iberian Peninsula. What human migrations occurred that created the Celt-Iberian people? How were these different from the bask? What other peoples migrated to the peninsula over time, and how did control over the region shift?

Now, let's jump to a different section of this site and look at the 17 Regions of Spain, similar in their autonomy from the federal government as American states are. You can either click on the region's name or place on the map.

Browse the regions beginning with Andalucia, and continue through into Aragon, Asturias, the Balearic Islands, Basque Country, Catalonia, Madrid, and the Valencian Community. Visit all of the regions, if you have time.

In what ways is each region unique in its climate, history, and culture?

A Cultured Tour

With some of the basics under your traveler's belt, it's time to dive into the depths of Spanish art and culture at Marbella Life's History & Culture site.

Let's focus on the Culture section and take a look at a pastime Spain's particularly know for: Bullfighting. How is this sport different from other sports? How is it similar?

Next, move on to a less bloody form of entertainment -- Flamenco. How did this style first originate and how did it become part of the local Andalusian culture? How do you think this style of music and dance can express feelings?

Now learn more about how Moorish Occupation in Spain influenced the region's cultural growth. In what ways were the Moors more advanced than other European peoples? From what region did the Moors migrate and why did they move to the Iberian Peninsula? What features make their architecture distinctive?

And, of course, Spain is famous for its Fiestas. In what ways are religious beliefs tied to many of these festivities?

If you have time, browse through some of the notable People and Places of Spain

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Newspaper Activities

Browse a current issue of Targetnewspaper and look for articles about Spain. In what ways are the people still recovering from the terrorist attacks, and how is the government responding? How did the election results turn out? Do any Spaniards believe the attacks influenced the outcomes? Also, look for any Spanish influence in your local community. For example, is there any art, dance, or theater production with a Spanish flavor being highlighted in the newspaper? Are there any hints of the Spanish language being used in your community?