Spain

Spain's powerful world empire of the 16th and 17th centuries ultimately yielded command of the seas to England. Subsequent failure to embrace the mercantile and industrial revolutions caused the country to fall behind Britain, France, and Germany in economic and political power. Spain remained neutral in World Wars I and II but suffered through a devastating civil war (1936-39). A peaceful transition to democracy following the death of dictator Francisco FRANCO in 1975, and rapid economic modernization (Spain joined the EU in 1986) have given Spain one of the most dynamic economies in Europe and made it a global champion of freedom. Continuing challenges include Basque Fatherland and Liberty (ETA) terrorism and relatively high unemployment.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 40,448,191

Nationality (Noun): Spaniard(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Spanish

Official Language(s): Spanish

Major Languages Spoken: Basque, Catalan, Galician, Spanish, Valencian

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Kingdom of Spain

Country Name (short form): Spain

Country Name (local long form): Espana

Country Name (local short form): Espana

Name of Capital: Madrid

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Spain: Morocco, Portugal, Andorra, France, Gibraltar

Land Area: 499542 sq km

Water Area: 5240 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly more than twice the size of Oregon

Total Land Boundry: 1,917.8 km

Coastline: 4,964 km

National Holiday: National Day, 12 October (1492); year when Columbus first set foot in the Americas

International Phone Code: 34

Currency Code: euro (EUR)

Internet Country Code: .es

US Embassy Location: Serrano 75, 28006 Madrid

US Embassy Mailing Address: PSC 61, APO AE 09642