Charles II and the Will: How He Chose a French King to Succeed Him

Discover the intriguing legacy of **Charles II**, the last monarch of the House of **Habsburg** in Spain, whose will decided the fate of Europe by naming **Philip V**, grandson of Louis XIV of France, as his successor. This seemingly innocent act unleashed a series of conflicts that culminated in the devastating **War of Spanish Succession**. In this article, we delve into the life of Charles II, a king marked by tragedy and decline, who faced a constant struggle against health issues since childhood, a consequence of familial inbreeding. The choice of Philip V not only transformed the Spanish monarchy but also altered the balance of power in Europe. If you want to understand how a will can change the course of history, don’t miss this fascinating analysis. Read on and immerse yourself in the story that defined an era!

November 29, 2025

historiahabsburgodinastíacarlos iitestamentofelipe vguerra de sucesiónsucesión

Carlos II: The Will that Chose a French King to Succeed Him

The story of Carlos II, the last king of the House of Habsburg in Spain, is marked by tragedy, decline, and court intrigue. His will, which appointed Philip of Anjou, a grandson of Louis XIV of France, as his successor, unleashed a storm of conflicts that would culminate in the feared Spanish War of Succession. In this article, we will explore how this seemingly simple act transformed the fate of Europe and sealed the destiny of the Spanish monarchy.

The Grandeur and Decline of Carlos II

Born in 1661, Carlos II ascended to the throne at the age of 4, following the death of his father, Philip IV. From the outset of his reign, it became evident that the young king was consumed by physical and mental weakness, a consequence of the inbreeding that characterized the Habsburg family. His health problems were so severe that he earned the nickname "The Bewitched." The courtesy and splendor of royal ceremonies dramatically contrasted with the fragility of his figure. As the years went by and the power of the Habsburgs waned, Carlos II became a symbol of the decline of a dynasty that was once synonymous with greatness.

The Will: A Crucial Decision in a Context of Intrigue

In 1700, as Carlos II's death approached, the tension in his court was palpable. The interests of several European powers loomed over the Spanish throne, and the choice of a successor had repercussions that extended beyond Spanish borders. On October 2 of that year, in an act that left Europe stunned, Carlos II signed his will, naming Philip V, the grandson of Louis XIV, as his heir. This move not only unleashed the anger of European powers, who feared the union of the crowns of France and Spain...