First king of the House of Bourbon in Spain, he ruled from 1700 to 1746 and implemented significant reforms, centralizing power and modernizing the country.
Philip V of Spain, also known as Felipe V, is renowned for his extensive reign of 45 years and 16 days, surpassing Philip IV as the longest-reigning monarch in Spanish history. During his rule, he instigated sweeping reforms, centralizing power and suppressing regional privileges, thereby reshaping the Spanish monarchy and empire.
Born on December 19, 1683, as Philippe, Duke of Anjou, Philip V was a member of the French royal family. As the second son of Louis, Grand Dauphin, he was third in line to the French throne after his father and elder brother, Louis, Duke of Burgundy. However, his great-uncle Charles II of Spain, who was childless, named Philip as his heir presumptive in his will, paving the way for Philip's ascension to the Spanish throne.
In 1700, Philip V succeeded Charles II as the first Spanish monarch of the House of Bourbon. This marked a significant turning point in Spanish history, as the new king sought to modernize and strengthen the monarchy. Philip's accession, however, provoked the 13-year War of the Spanish Succession, as European powers sought to prevent the union of France and Spain under one monarch.
Philip V's reforms aimed to consolidate power, suppress regional autonomy, and restructure the administration of the Spanish Empire. The Nueva Planta decrees, issued in 1707-1716, abolished the autonomy of the kingdoms of Aragon, Valencia, and Catalonia, establishing a centralized state. He also reformed the Spanish Empire's administration, creating a more efficient and unified system.
In 1701, Philip V married his second cousin, Maria Luisa of Savoy, with whom he had four sons. After her death in 1714, he remarried to Elisabeth Farnese, with whom he had seven children, including future Spanish kings and queens.
Philip V's reforms had a lasting impact on modern Spanish society. His centralization of power and suppression of regional privileges laid the groundwork for a more unified and modern Spanish state. His legacy continues to influence Spanish politics, administration, and culture to this day.
Philip V's remarkable reign, marked by reform and centralization, cemented his place as one of the most significant monarchs in Spanish history. His legacy continues to shape Spanish society, politics, and culture, earning him a revered place in the annals of Spanish history.
Born in 1713
King of Spain from 1746 to 1759, known for his cultural and economic reforms, and for being the first Spanish monarch to visit Catalonia in over a century.
Born in 1716
The Enlightened Despot who reformed Spain, promoting education, arts, and economic growth, and is credited with modernizing Madrid.
Born in 1710
The monarch who ruled France from 1715 to 1774, known as the "Sun King's" great-grandson, and remembered for his extravagance, absolutism, and the decline of the French monarchy.
Born in 1692
The Queen of Spain who masterminded a series of strategic marriages and military campaigns to secure her family's power and reclaim lost territories, becoming one of the most influential women in European history. She is also known for her patronage of the arts and architecture, leaving a lasting legacy in Spanish culture.
Born in 1688
The queen consort of Spain who played a crucial role in shaping the country's politics and culture during the late 18th century, and was a patron of the arts and education. She was also known for her strong character and independence.
Born in 1716
The Enlightened Despot who reformed Spain, promoting education, arts, and economic growth, and is credited with modernizing Madrid.
Born in 1751
King of the Two Sicilies from 1816 to 1825, known for his efforts to unify Italy and his role in the country's struggle for independence.
