Final answer:
The chronology of events contributing to the rise of Spain's "Golden Empire" begins with the marriage of Ferdinand and Isabella, followed by Spanish explorations led by Columbus, the economic boom due to New World treasures, and culminates with the cultural renaissance under the Habsburg dynasty during the Baroque era.
Step-by-step explanation:
The growth of Spain's "Golden Empire" unfolded across several significant events. Starting with Ferdinand and Isabella's marriage in 1492 that unified Spain into a nation, this period saw a consolidation of royal power and the start of the Spanish Golden Age with the augmentation of commerce and industry. Following this was the end of the Reconquista and the sponsorship of Christopher Columbus's voyages leading to the Americas, which marked the beginning of extensive Spanish exploration and conquests. The influx of gold and silver, often sourced through the exploitation of native and enslaved people, such as in Potosí, caused a significant economic transformation and fueled Spain’s Golden Age. Additionally, the cultural and artistic flourishing occurred with the Habsburg dynasty’s patronage of the arts, resulting in the Baroque era and masterpieces like The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha by Miguel de Cervantes.