4- Colonial Blueprints

Wherein, we take a brief detour into the subject of colonialism itself.  Specifically, the way contextual realities in the old world at the dawn of the European Age of Discovery effected the way things played out when they reached the new world. The Colonial Blueprint, if you will. Which includes exploring Spain during the Reconquista and comparing/contrasting that with the English conquest of Ireland. (with mixed results).  Also we'll have a look at the history of English policy in Ireland.  Because, as we'll see, Sir George Calvert will be up to his poofy collar in said policy in Ireland.  Namely, that of the plantations. Finally, we'll learn a bit about the religious situation in Ireland, and how it could grant a form of religious refuge for Calvert (if only by default).