What nobody told you about the loss of Portugal: when Philip IV saw the Iberian Union crumble.

Discover the fascinating story of Portugal's loss in 1640, an event that marked a turning point in the history of the Iberian Peninsula. In this article, we explore how Philip IV of Spain, following the ambitious Iberian Union, was faced with the harsh reality of Portuguese independence. The promise of greatness faded, leaving Philip IV caught in political intrigues and conflicts that led to the decline of an imperial dream. What palace secrets and fateful decisions contributed to this collapse? Join us in this deep and revealing analysis that unravels the threads of history, politics, and the struggle for national identity. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn what really happened in this intriguing chapter of the history of Spain and Portugal!

November 30, 2025

historiahabsburgodinastíafelipe ivportugalindependencia1640historia
```html

Philip IV: The Shadow of the Loss of Portugal and the Disintegration of the Iberian Union

History is filled with crucial moments that shape the destiny of nations and dynasties. One such pivotal milestone was the loss of Portugal in 1640, an event that left Philip IV of Spain facing an abyss of uncertainty. The Iberian Union, which had promised an era of greatness, became a symbol of decay and ruin. In this article, we will explore the intricate web of political intrigues, conflicts, and court secrets that surrounded the fall of one of the jewels of the Iberian crown.

The Grandeur of the Iberian Union: An Ambitious Dream

The union between Spain and Portugal was not a mere whim; it was the result of a series of circumstances that led to the rise of Philip II in 1580. This movement, known as the Iberian Union, promised to consolidate the maritime and territorial power of both kingdoms. Under the leadership of the astute Philip II, the Spanish fleet dominated the oceans and extended the influence of the House of Habsburg throughout Africa, Asia, and America, creating an empire so vast that it shook the powers of the time.

However, the splendor of this union began to fade with the death of Philip II in 1598. His son, Philip III, and then Philip IV, failed to maintain the same level of control and cohesion. The ascent of Philip IV to the throne in 1621 marked a significant shift in the dynamics of power; while Spain struggled against a series of internal and external crises, Portugal began to nurture a burning desire to reclaim its independence.

The Rise of Portuguese Nationalism and Spanish Decline

The years of oppression and Spanish dominance began to resonate in the hearts of the Portuguese. Throughout the 1630s, the echoes of resistance grew stronger. The situation became...

```