Philip V of Spain

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Philip V of Spain (Spanish: Felipe V; 19 December 1683 – 9 July 1746) was the first Bourbon king of Spain, reigning from 1 November 1700 to 14 January 1724, and again from 6 September 1724 to his death in 1746. He was born at the Palace of Versailles in France, the second son of the Grand Dauphin, Louis, and Maria Anna Victoria of Bavaria. Philip's reign marked the beginning of the Bourbon dynasty in Spain, which continues to this day.

Early Life

Philip was born during the reign of his grandfather, Louis XIV of France. As the second son of the Grand Dauphin, he was not expected to inherit the French throne. However, the death of his elder brother, Louis, Duke of Burgundy, and the lack of a direct heir to the Spanish throne led to his candidacy for the Spanish crown.

War of the Spanish Succession

Philip's ascension to the Spanish throne was contested, leading to the War of the Spanish Succession (1701–1714). The conflict was primarily between the supporters of Philip and those of the Austrian Archduke Charles, who also claimed the throne. The war ended with the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713, which recognized Philip as the king of Spain but required him to renounce any claim to the French throne to prevent the unification of the two crowns.

Reign

Philip's reign saw significant reforms in the administration of Spain. He centralized the government, reducing the power of regional authorities and the Cortes Generales. His reign also saw the establishment of the Bourbon Reforms, which aimed to modernize the Spanish economy and military.

First Abdication and Return

In 1724, Philip abdicated in favor of his son, Louis I, but resumed the throne later that year after Louis's untimely death. His second reign was marked by continued efforts to strengthen the monarchy and modernize the country.

Later Years and Death

Philip suffered from bouts of depression and mental illness, which affected his ability to rule effectively in his later years. He died on 9 July 1746 at the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso and was succeeded by his son, Ferdinand VI.

Legacy

Philip V's reign laid the foundation for the modern Spanish state. His centralization efforts and reforms had a lasting impact on the administration and governance of Spain. The Bourbon dynasty he established continues to rule Spain today.

Family

Philip V married twice. His first wife was Maria Luisa of Savoy, with whom he had four children, including Louis I and Ferdinand VI. After her death, he married Elisabeth Farnese, with whom he had several more children, including Charles III.

See Also

• Bourbon Reforms
• War of the Spanish Succession
• Treaty of Utrecht
• Louis XIV of France
• Ferdinand VI of Spain
• Charles III of Spain