The Secret of Philip IV and Olivares: The Favorite Who Ruled Spain for 22 Years

In the tumultuous 17th century, a young monarch ascended to the Spanish throne, accompanied by an enigmatic figure, the Count-Duke of Olivares. Philip IV, despite being the king, allowed his favorite to take the reins of Spain for over two decades. This story is filled with court intrigues, political maneuvers, and an inescapable fate of greatness and decline. What was the secret that united Philip IV and Olivares, and what price did Spain pay for this power? Join us on a journey through the dark corridors of power.

The Ascension of Philip IV and His Blind Trust in Olivares

Philip IV ascended to the throne of Spain in 1621 at the tender age of 16, following the death of his father, Philip III. From the very beginning, the young king found himself overwhelmed by an empire that spanned much of Europe and America. In this context of uncertainty, the king placed his trust in Gaspar de Guzmán y Pimentel, Count-Duke of Olivares, who became his favorite and chief advisor.

Olivares was a shrewd politician who had managed to win Philip IV's trust. During his 22 years in power, Olivares implemented bold reforms aimed at revitalizing the Spanish empire. However, these reforms also led to tensions and internal conflicts that would escalate in the following years. In his memoirs, the 17th-century chronicler Antonio de Solís described Olivares as "a man of great ingenuity, though with dangerous ambitions."

Olivares' Reforms: Greatness and Ruin

One of Olivares' most notable reforms was the creation of a more equitable tax system aimed at alleviating the fiscal burdens of the Spanish territories. In 1624, he proposed the idea of a union of arms, which required all kingdoms under