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

Discover the fascinating story of **Charles II**, the last king of the House of Habsburg in Spain, and his controversial **will** that named a French prince, **Philip V**, as his successor. This unexpected move not only impacted the future of Spain but also unleashed the **Spanish Succession War**, a conflict that transformed the map of Europe. In a context of decline and crisis, Charles II, known as "the Bewitched," left a complex legacy that continues to intrigue historians and curious minds alike. What motivated this king, on his deathbed, to make such a risky decision? In our article, we unveil the secrets behind Charles II's will and how his choices shaped the fate of a nation. Don't miss this captivating journey through history!

November 30, 2025

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

The story of Charles II, the last king of the House of Habsburg in Spain, is marked by grandeur and decline, a contrast reflected in the will he left upon his death in 1700. This intriguing document not only defined the future of a nation but also laid the groundwork for the Spanish Succession War, a conflict that would shake Europe. How was it possible for a dying king to decide that his successor would be a French prince, Philip V, rather than a member of his own house? In this article, we will unravel the secrets of Charles II's will and the legacy he left behind.

Charles II: A Cursed King in a Ruined Kingdom

Charles II, born in 1661, was the last monarch of the Habsburg dynasty in Spain. Known as "the Bewitched," his reign was marked by illness, physical weakness, and mental issues, making him a king unable to govern decisively. The inbreeding within his family, a result of marriages among close relatives, left him with fragile health and an affected mind. When he ascended to the throne in 1665, he inherited a declining empire, a vast domain that spanned territories in Europe, America, and Asia, but was crumbling under the weight of corruption and constant wars.

Charles II's Will: A Legacy of Intrigue and Despair

On his deathbed in 1700, Charles II faced a crucial decision: who should inherit the throne? His will, drafted on October 2 of that year, surprised many as it designated Philip V of France, grandson of King Louis XIV, as his successor. This act was seen as an epitome of the monarch's despair and lack of options, surrounded by conspiracies and doubts about the loyalty of his own family.

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