Discuss the reasons for Christian opposition to the Muslim states in Spain.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for Christian opposition to Muslim states. Candidates may cover the full period or choose to focus on specific periods where the opposition led to the decline of Muslim rule in Spain. Reasons for opposition could be related to the treatment of Christians within the Muslim states, for example the heavy taxation restrictions on clothing, church building and the practice of their religion. Candidates may also consider the wider context of the Christian kingdoms becoming stronger and more united and therefore more able to resist Muslim advances. There may be reference to the Crusading spirit or Reconquista as a reason for resistance, or to the fact that military successes, such as the capture of Toledo, encouraged further resistance.