The Loss of Portugal: When Philip IV Witnessed the Collapse of the Iberian Union

The 17th century was a period of deep turmoil in Europe, and one of its most dramatic episodes was the loss of Portugal under the reign of Philip IV. In 1640, Portugal's independence marked the beginning of the end of the Iberian Union, an imperial dream that was crumbling in the face of national resistance and political intrigue. This article explores the grandeur and decline of the House of Habsburg, the power at stake, and the palace secrets surrounding this conflict.

The Rise of the Iberian Union under Philip IV

The Iberian Union began in 1580 when the Spanish king Philip II, grandfather of Philip IV, claimed the Portuguese throne following the death of King Sebastian I. This event, known as the "Succession Crisis," led to Portugal's forced union with Spain, which lasted for 60 years. During this time, Philip IV, who ascended to the throne in 1621, inherited a vast and diverse empire, spanning from the Philippines to South America, but also faced a monumental challenge: to keep the Iberian crown united.

The early years of his reign were marked by the conquest of new territories and the consolidation of power. However, the situation in Portugal was becoming increasingly tense. The Spanish administration imposed high taxes and a centralist policy that fueled discontent among the Portuguese. Resistance to Spanish rule grew in the shadows, setting the stage for an eruption that would change the course of history.

The Outbreak of Portugal's Independence in 1640

On December 1, 1640, a group of Portuguese nobles, led by João IV of Braganza, took up arms against Spanish rule in what is known as the "Restoration of Independence." This rebellion was fueled