Distant Tyranny: Markets, Power, and Backwardness in Spain, 1650-1800

Regina Grafe explores the intricate interplay between markets, power, and societal structures in Spain from 1650 to 1800. She illustrates how the nation navigated its transition from a premodern society to a more modern and unified state. The period is marked by significant challenges, including economic stagnation and the pressures of modernization, which shaped the political and social landscape of Spain.

Grafe delves into the role of local and global markets and how they influenced the dynamics of power within the country. She examines the unique conditions that contributed to Spain's backwardness relative to other European nations, shedding light on the impact of regional disparities and the responses of various social groups to changing economic circumstances.

By intertwining economic theory with historical narrative, the work presents a nuanced understanding of Spain's trajectory during a pivotal era. Grafe's insights offer an enlightening perspective on how historical legacies and market forces can shape a nation's identity and development.