Spanish, also known as Castilian, is a Romance language that originated in the Iberian Peninsula and has since spread across the globe. It is the second most spoken language in the world by native speakers, with a rich history influenced by various cultures, including Arabic and Latin. Today, Spanish is the official language of 20 countries, primarily in Latin America and Spain. Its widespread use in international business, culture, and diplomacy makes it a vital language for global communication and understanding.